Frequently Asked Questions
We have listed below the answers to the most commonly asked questions about vehicle titling and registration. In some cases, we have also provided links to further online resources along with the answer. Fry Auto Title Service is proud to offer this resource to you in the hopes that it makes your titling experience a carefree one.
General Registration | Disabled Registration | General Titling | Motorcycles |
Boats | New Residents | Plates and Stickers | Specialty Plates | Trailers | Bonded Titles | Sales Tax, Gift Tax and SPV |General Registration
Q: I did not receive my registration renewal. What do I do?A: A renewal notice is not needed at Fry Auto Title Service. To renew your registration you will need to provide your license plate number, vehicle identification number (VIN), and your current proof of insurance.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: Is there a grace period after a registration expires?A: Yes. A vehicle may be operated for 5 working days after the registration expires without a penalty.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: Under what circumstances am I required to pay a 20% registration penalty?A: A 20% registration penalty occurs when a ticket has been issued for operating a vehicle unregistered after the 5 day grace period.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: I haven't driven my vehicle since the registration expired. Do I pay a penalty for late registration?A: No. If the vehicle has not been registered for a valid reason (repairs, etc.) registration will be established with a new 12-month registration period. The new registration will expire on the last day of the 11th month following the month of registration.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: My registration renewal notice says new plates required. How do I obtain new plates?A: Every seven years new license plates are required for your vehicle. Fry Auto Title Service is able to issue these new plates to you at no additional cost when issued with your registration.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: Why does it cost less to register my truck than is does my older car?A: Trucks are registered by weight and stay the same throughout the life of the truck. Passenger cars are registered by model year and fees are paid on a graduated basis over a three-year time period beginning with the current year as the highest registration amount.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: I registered my vehicle this month. Why does my registration expire in the previous month?A: Registration in Texas counts the month you register in as the first month of registration regardless of the day on which registration occurs plus the next 11 consecutive months.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: I sold my vehicle several months ago and I am still receiving registration renewals in my name. What should I do?
A: It is likely the new owner has not transferred title to their name. To put a notice on the motor vehicle record that the vehicle has been sold fill out a Texas Motor Vehicle Transfer Notification (Form VTR-346) and mail to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: Do I need to show proof of insurance to register my trailer?A: No.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: I live in another county other than Travis County. Can I register my vehicle in Travis County?A: Registration must be done in the county of residence.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: What does "Registration Purposes Only" mean?A: If you move to Texas from another state, at the time of registration, you have an option to surrender your out of state title or registration receipt. If you surrender your out of state registration, your vehicle is considered to be registered as "Registration Purposes Only" and not titled in Texas. To sell your vehicle your out of state title is the title that will be surrendered to the buyer.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: How do I get my address changed so that I receive renewal notices at my new address?A: Complete the Chane of Address for Texas Vehicle Registration (FormVTR-146) and mail to TxDMV or complete the address change Online© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
General Registration | Disabled Registration | General Titling | Motorcycles |
Boats | New Residents | Plates and Stickers | Specialty Plates |Trailers | Bonded Titles | Sales Tax and SPV |Disabled Registration
Q: How do I obtain Disabled license plates or placards?A: An Application for Persons with Disabilities Parking Placard and/or License Plates (Form VTR-214) must be completed and notarized by a physician indicating if the disability is permanent or temporary. A physician may supply a prescription in lieu of the notorization. For permanent disabilities, an applicant may obtain a combination of two placards, or one placard and one set of plates.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: What is the difference between a red and blue permanent disabled placard.A: A blue placard is issued for permanent disabilities. A red placard is issued for temporary disabilities. Blue permanent placards are renewed every 4 years from date of issuance. Temporary red placards are issued for six months.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009Q: I lost my disabled person placard and/or license plate. What do I do?A: If your placard is lost or destroyed you must reapply for a new placard. You may show the (destroyed) placard, or a copy of your original completed Form VTR-214. If this proof is not available a new Form VTR-214 is required. If the license plates are lost, stolen or destroyed replacement plates may be issued. You will need to supply to Fry Auto Title Service the plate number or vehicle identification number (VIN) of the vehicle to which the plates were issued.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
General Registration | Disabled Registration | General Titling | Motorcycles |
Boats | New Residents | Plates and Stickers | Specialty Plates |Trailers| Bonded Titles | Sales Tax and SPV |General Titling
Q: How do I transfer a Texas title to a vehicle I just bought or sold?A: The seller must sign and date the back of the negotiable Texas title on the designated signature of seller line. The date of sale box and signature line is located by the assignment of title section, which is indicated on the left hand side of the title under the perforated tear off portion of the title. The seller must also provide the buyer an Application for Texas Certificate of Title (Form 130-U) OR a Bill of Sale (Form BOS). The seller should also provide the buyer with the receipt of current registration at the time of purchase. The buyer must sign the back of the negotiable title as well as the title application. At time of title transfer the buyer must provide current proof of insurance. Fry Auto Title Service can then process the title transfer.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: What is a bonded title?A: A bonded title is the process used to obtain a title to a vehicle when the required documents are unavailable for a transfer of title. Detailed information regarding bonded titles can be obtained through the link on Bonded Titles.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: How do I transfer a vehicle with an out of state title?A: If the vehicle has Texas registration and license plates:
The seller must sign the title on the designated signature of seller line.The seller must provide the buyer a signed Application for Texas Certificate of Title (Form 130-U) OR a Bill of Sale (Form BOS). The buyer must sign the title, application for title and provide current proof of insurance. Fry Auto Title Service can then process the title transfer.
If the vehicle has out of state registration and license plates:
The buyer must first have the vehicle safety inspected in Texas. Upon inspection the safety inspection station will issue you a Vehicle Identification Certificate. This must be presented at time of title transfer with the other requirements described above.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: How soon must I transfer title after I buy/sell a vehicle?
Transfer the title and registration on time to avoid penalties!
A: Beginning January 1, 2008, penalties increased for the late transfer of title and registration of a motor vehicle.
File on Time: Title transfer must be completed within 20 working days of date of sale/purchase to avoid paying a late transfer penalty.
Penalties: Individual to Individual transfers:
$25 late transfer penalty-If you apply for the transfer between 21 working days and 31 working days after the date of sale.
ADD another $25 penalty for each additional 30 calendar day period (or part of 30 calendar day period) when transferred on or after the 32nd work day after the date of sale.
Military Personnel Transfers:
Military personnel have up to 60 working days to transfer before a late penalty is assessed. Beginning on the 61st working day after date of sale ADD $25 penalty for each additional 30 calendar day period (or part of 30 calendar day period)
Some Exceptions:
No Penalties:-The following types of vehicles are exempt from late transfer penalties:
-
25 or more year old passenger cars, light trucks, motorcycles or travel trailers
-
new vehicles
-
vehicles bought from state or federal government agencies
-
off highway motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATV)
© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: I lost my Texas title. How do I get a replacement?A: Applicants for a Certified Copy of title may be the owner of record, lienholder, or verifiable agent of either.Fry Auto Title can help you with this process and obtain the certified copy of the title for you or you may obtain yourself directly from TXDOT at 1001 E. Parmer Lane, Austin, TX.
All applicants must provide:
1.) A properly completed Application for Certified Copy of Title (Form VTR-34),
2.)Photo ID (State or US-issued photo ID, such as Texas or other state driver's license, government identification card, U.S. Passport, or military identification) of the person signing the Form VTR-34.
3.)If there was ever a lien recorded on the title the lien holder must provide a Prescribed Form For Release of Lien (Form VTR 266.)
Verifiable Agent of Owner or Lienholder
1.)In addition to the requirements above, a verified agent of the owner or lienholder must also provide a letter of signature authority on original letterhead, or a business card, or copy of the agent’s employee ID.
If the Form VTR-34 is signed with a Power of Attorney (POA), the transaction must have, in addition to the requirements above:
1.)Photo ID of recorded owner/lienholder signing the POA.
2.)Photo ID of individual signing the Form VTR-34.NOTE: Businesses given POA will also be required to provide a letter of signature authority on original letterhead, business card, or a copy of employee ID.
For more information, see the Certified Copy of Title Fact Sheet (Form VTR-34F).
© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: I paid the loan off on my car. Why does the state show a lien on my car?A: The lien holder does not notify the state when a vehicle is paid off. The release of lien is on the face of your negotiable title. If you wish to have a negotiable title which does not show the original lien and release, you may bring your title to Fry Auto Title Service to apply for a new title which does not show the lien.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: After I transfer title to my name how long before I receive the title?A: You should receive title within three weeks of transfer. If not received contact the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. (512-837-4418) or the title service which processed the title transfer for you.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: How do I sell a vehicle that is titled in my ex-spouses name?A: If the divorce decree awards the vehicle to you, must surrender a certified copy of your divorce decree to apply for title. If the divorce decree does not award the vehicle to you your ex spouse must properly assign the title and provide a signed Application for Texas Certificate of Title (Form 130-U).© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: How do I sell a vehicle that is titled in my deceased spouse's name?A: If the deceased spouse left a will, and the will was probated, the executor of the estate must sign the title and title application. If the estate has been probated, the executor or administrator may transfer the title provided a certified copy of the probate proceedings or Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration is attached. Otherwise the procedures of heirship must be met. See Affidavit of Heirship for a Motor Vehicle (Form VTR-262).If there was no will or the will was not probated contact Fry Auto Title Service for help.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: What years are exempt from odometer readings?A: Vehicles that are 10 model years and older.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: Does the face of the title need to be signed?A: Yes. The face of the title should be signed by the titled owner(s) when the title is received in the mail from The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) or from your lienholder.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: I live in another county other than Travis County. Can I transfer title in Travis County?A: Transfer of title may be done in Travis County as long as the buyer, seller, or lien holder is located in Travis County.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: I am buying/selling a vehicle in which the title is issued in more than one name. Is each person required to sign the title?A: Yes.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: Does the seller’s signature need to be notarized on the title?A: No.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: When assigning my title to another person I made an error on the back of the title? How do I correct?A: When an error is made on the back of the title the seller must furnish to the buyer a Statement of Facts (Form SOF) to correct the error.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: I bought a vehicle that is inoperable. Do I have to buy registration when I transfer title?A: No. Complete the Application for Title Only (Form VTR-131). License plates and registration stickers must be surrendered at time of application for title. Before the vehicle may be operated on the streets or highways of Texas, registration must be purchased.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: I financed my vehicle and a lien holder was recorded, but I have not received a title yet. Will I receive a non-negotiable copy of the title?A: No. When a lien is recorded the original title is mailed to the lienholder. When title was applied for you received a title application receipt. This receipt serves as your proof of registration and as proof that a title was applied for in your name.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
General Registration | Disabled Registration | General Titling | Motorcycles |
Boats | New Residents | Plates and Stickers | Specialty Plates |Trailers| Bonded Titles | Sales Tax and SPV |Motorcycles
Q: How do I register and title a motorcycle?A: Follow the same procedures as any other motor vehicle.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
General Registration | Disabled Registration | General Titling | Motorcycles |
Boats | New Residents | Plates and Stickers | Specialty Plates |Trailers| Bonded Titles | Sales Tax and SPV |Boats
Q: How do I transfer my boat registration/title and outboard motor title?A: To transfer a boat or outboard motor, the seller must complete the tax affidavit portion on the PWD 143 for the boat or PWD 144 for the outboard motor, sign and date each form. Also, if the boat or motor is titled, the seller must sign, date and show the name of the purchaser on the back of the title. The purchaser must complete the rest of the applications in their name, sign and date. No notarization is required on the forms or titles.Submit the PWD 143 for the boat with the title. The renewal fee is required if the registration is expired and can be paid if expiring within the next 90 days.
Submit the PWD 144 for the outboard motor with the title.
Fry Auto Title Service can then process the title transfer for you.
© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: I have a boat that has never been registered or titled. I want to now use the boat. How do I register it?A: To title and register the boat the following must be submitted:Vessel/Boat Application for Texas Certificate of Title and Registration (Form PWD143)
Affidavit of Fact for Indentification/Serial Number (Form PWD504)
Affidavit of Facts (Form PWD314) stating the reason why the boat was never titled or registered.
If the boat does NOT have a serial #, the boat must be inspected by a Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Warden (512-389-4828) so that a serial number can be assigned to the boat.
If the boat DOES have a serial number and is a model year 1973 or later the boat does not need inspection.
© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q:I've recently moved to Texas. How do I register my boat and motor in Texas?A: If your boat and motor is currently registered or titled in another state you must transfer the registration and title within 90 days.The following documents are required to title and register in Texas:
Boats:
Vessel/Boat Application for Texas Certificate of Title and Registration (Form PWD143)
Affidavit of Fact for Indentification/Serial Number (Form PWD504)
Out of state title and registration card.
Motors:
Outboard Motor Application for Texas Certificate of Title (Form PWD144)
Affidavit of Fact for Indentification/Serial Number (Form PWD504)
Out of state title card.
If the boat does NOT have a serial #, the boat must be inspected by a Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Warden (512-389-4828) so that a serial number can be assigned to the boat.
If the boat DOES have a serial number and is a model year 1973 or later the boat does not need inspection.
Fry Auto Title then can process the title and registration for you.
© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: Do I need to renew my boat registration?A: Effective September 1, 1997, all vessels on public water are required to have current registration, including when docked, moored, or stored.Make sure
(1) the vessel is numbered as required
(2) the certificate of number assigned to the vessel is in full force
(3) the identifying number set forth in the certificate is properly displayed on each side of the bow of the vessel
(4) placement of decals is AFT of the registration number as required by the Texas Parks and Wildlife.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: How do I renew my boat registration?A: You may renew your registration online using your credit card through this link at Texas Parks and Wildlife: Online Boat Registration Renewal
If you don't want to renew online you may write a letter including your TX number and current mailing address and submit it with a money order for the renewal fee. (Show the TX number on the money order.) You may operate the boat with the purchaser's copy of the money order and copy of your letter until your Certificate of Number and decals are received. Please mail letter and money order to TPWD, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744.
If your boat is less than 16 feet in length, your fee is $32.00
If 16 feet but less than 26 feet in length, your fee is $53.00
If 26 feet but less than 40 feet in length, your fee is $110.00
If 40 feet in length and over, your fee is $150.00
Livery boat less than 16 feet in length, your fee is $32.00© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: How do I get duplicate registration card and decals?A: If your registration is current and you have lost your card, complete PWD 143M for a duplicate. The fee is $11.00.
If you require duplicate decals, complete PWD 143M. The fee is $11.00.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: How do I get duplicate boat and/or outboard motor titles?A: To replace a lost title for a boat or outboard motor, the owner on record must apply if there is no lien. If there is a lien on Texas Parks and Wildlife's records, the lienholder must apply EVEN IF THE LIEN HAS BEEN PAID. THE LIEN WILL BE SHOWN ON THE DUPLICATE TITLE. The complete application form(s) PWD 143M must be submitted with $27.00 for each title requested (or $64.00 each for "Austin Only" Quick Title).© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: I need information on my boat/outboard motor, how can I get it?A: Effective September 1, 1995 new legislation (SB 72) prohibits the release of certain information regarding boats and outboard motors. When you call Texas Parks and Wildlife and request information on a TX number or Motor number they can give make, length, expiration date, if titled and if a lien is recorded. (This boat information can be obtained through the IVR system at 512-389-4828 or 1-800-262-8755). If additional information is needed, you must submit a written request to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Office with $2.00 fee per record. The following information must be included:1. Name and address of requestor
2. TX number/M number (if motor) and/or serial numbers (and any additional description information available to help identify the correct record)
3. The statement "The information obtained will be used for lawful purposes."© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: Where do I get my boat trailer transferred?A: Boat trailer transfers and registrations may be obtained through Fry Auto Title Service.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: What vessels and motors are titled?A: Effective January 1, 1994 ALL vessels and outboard motors (internal combustion motors) are required to be titled. Exceptions are canoes, kayaks, punts, rubber rafts, and rowboats (regardless of length) when they are paddled, poled, oared or windblown. If a sailboat is under 14 feet and meets the above criteria, it would not be required to be registered or titled. All sailboats 14 feet and over will require registration and titling. Electric or battery powered outboard motors are not titled. Vessels that are currently registered and not titled need only be titled when transferred. Sailboats 14 feet and over will be registered and titled as owners become aware of these requirements. Currently owned outboard motors under 12 horsepower also will be titled when transferred.Also effective January 1, 1994, a Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO) is required on ALL new boats and outboard motors.Effective September 1, 1997, all vessels on public water are required to have current registration,including when docked, moored, or stored. Make sure:
1. the vessel is numbered as required
2. the certificate of number assigned to the vessel is in full force
3. the identifying number set forth in the certificate is properly displayed on each side of the bow of the vessel
4. placement of decals is AFT of the registration number as required by the Texas Parks and Wildlife.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
General Registration | Disabled Registration | General Titling | Motorcycles |
Boats | New Residents | Plates and Stickers | Specialty Plates |Trailers| Bonded Titles | Sales Tax and SPV |New Residents
Q: I just moved to Texas. How do I register my vehicle?A: The following steps need to be taken to receive registration:
1. Obtain insurance that meets the Texas 20/40/15 requirements.
($20,000/$40,000 personal injury and $15,000 property damage.)
2. Your vehicle must first pass a Texas vehicle safety inspection and an inspection of the vehicle identification number (VIN). The safety inspection station will issue you a Vehicle Identification Certificate.
3. Bring your out of state title or last registration with the inspection certificate and proof of insurance to Fry Auto Title Service. If you wish to receive a negotiable Texas Title you must surrender your out of state title otherwise your out of state title will be your negotiable title to the vehicle.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
General Registration | Disabled Registration | General Titling | Motorcycles |
Boats | New Residents | Plates and Stickers | Specialty Plates |Trailers| Bonded Titles | Sales Tax and SPV |Plates and Stickers
Q: What do I do if my license plates or registration sticker is damaged or stolen?A: You may obtain replacements for your plates or sticker. You will need to furnish Fry Auto Title Service with the license plate number and vehicle identification number (VIN) of the vehicle.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
General Registration | Disabled Registration | General Titling | Motorcycles |
Boats | New Residents | Plates and Stickers | Specialty Plates |Trailers| Bonded Titles | Sales Tax and SPV |Specialty Plates
Q: What is the difference between Charitable Specialty Plates and My Plates?A: Texas began issuing personalized license plates in 1965. In 1990 specialty plates were introduced.
TxDMV offers you two types of specialty plates:1. The non-profit plates that benefit charitable organizations or causes known as Specialty Plates, Application forms for these types of plates are available at TxDMV or may be ordered online from Texas Online.
2. Plates issued by My Plates, a license plate marketing vendor recently contracted by TxDMV, offers a wider array of colors and designs. A portion of the revenue from My Plates’ sales will be deposited into the state’s General Revenue Fund, which provides services for all Texans.
My Plates is offering five categories of plates:
- Background (Non Personalized)
- Custom- (Personalized with 3 letters plus 2 or 3 numbers in a set pattern. Example: AAA11 or AAA111 or personalized with up to 6 letters and numbers on the generic plate design)
- T-Plates (Premium) -(Personalized up to 7 letters and numbers. First character is a T)
- Luxury (Personalized with up to 6 letters and numbers)
- Freedom (Personalized with up to 7 letters and numbers)
Plate prices range from $55 to $795 and price depends on the plate category, the number of characters offered for personalization and whether the plate is purchased for use for one, five or ten years.
The vendor also will sell $40 souvenir plates, which are not street legal, but can be personalized.
Online ordering of My Plates can be done at MyPlates
© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: What is the difference between an Antique and Classic License Plate?A: To qualify for either plate certain qualifications must be met as follows:Antique Plates:
- The frame, body and motor of the passenger car, truck, or motorcycle is 25 or more years old.
- The vehicle is used exclusively for exhibition, club activities, parades, and other functions of public interest.
- The vehicle can NOT be used for regular transportation and can NOT display any advertising.
Application for Antique License Plate (Form VTR-54)
Classic Plates:
- The frame, body and motor of the passenger car, truck, or motorcycle is 25 or more years old.
- The vehicle CAN be used for regular transportation
Application for Classic License Plate (Form VTR-850)
© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
General Registration | Disabled Registration | General Titling | Motorcycles |
Boats | New Residents | Plates and Stickers | Specialty Plates |Trailers| Bonded Titles | Sales Tax and SPV |Q: Do I need to show proof of insurance to register my trailer?A: No.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: I did not receive my trailer registration renewal. What do I do?A: A renewal notice is not needed at Fry Auto Title Service. To renew your trailer registration you will need to provide your license plate number and vehicle identification number (VIN) if the the trailer has been assigned one.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: I built a homemade/shop made trailer. How do I register it and obtain plates?A: If the gross weight (empty and carrying weight combined) is less than 4,000 pounds the trailer qualifies as a non-titled trailer. To obtain the trailer plate bring the empty and carrying weight to Fry Auto Title service and we will register the trailer and issue the plate. If the gross weight is over 4,000 pounds the trailer will be titled. The following steps are necessary to obtain title and registration:1. Have the trailer weighed at a weigh station.
2. Take a picture of the trailer
3. Take the picture and weight slip of the trailer to Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) Regional Office located at 1001 East Parmer Lane, Austin, TX. They will issue the trailer a vehicle identification number (VIN)
4. Have the VIN number die stamped on the trailer
5. Bring the completed form issued by TxDMV and the weight slip to Fry Auto Title Service. We will then process the paperwork for the title to be issued and issue a plate for the trailer.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
General Registration | Disabled Registration | General Titling | Motorcycles |
Boats | New Residents | Plates and Stickers | Specialty Plates |Trailers| Bonded Titles | Sales Tax and SPV |Bonded Titles
Q: What is a Bonded Title?A: A bonded title is a process used in Texas to provide title to vehicles when the proper evidence of ownership is not available. The bonded title law was passed by the Texas Legislature in the late 1980’s to provide an alternative to a Tax Collector Hearing to secure a Texas title for Texas residents. Many counties in the state no longer hold hearings. Travis County does not provide tax hearings.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: Who can apply for a Bonded Title?A: Some of the most common situations in which you can apply for a bonded title are:1.When you have purchased (or were given a vehicle) and did not receive the title or bill of sale from the seller.
2. When you purchased a vehicle and only received a bill of sale.
3. When you purchased (or were given a vehicle) and only received an improperly assigned title.
4. When you purchased a vehicle and received a title and have since lost that title and can’t locate the previous owner to obtain a copy.
5. Out-of-state residents may only apply for a Bonded Title if the vehicle is titled in Texas.
© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: Bonded titles can be issued for what type of vehicle?A: Bonded titles may be issued for:1. Automobiles
2. Trucks
3. Buses
4. Trailers (over 4000 lb. gross)
5. Travel Trailers
6. Motor Homes
7. Motorcycles© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: If I lost or wasn't given the title from the seller can’t I just get a copy of the “lost title” from TxDMV?A: No. The owner shown on the title record is the only person who can obtain a certified copy of the title.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: What if there is dispute over the ownership of the vehicle?A: When a bonded title is issued a “Bonded” notation is shown on the title record for 3 years. If during that time someone claims an interest in the vehicle they can take the new owner to court. If the court issues judgment, the bonding company pays the judgment, and the new owner must reimburse the bonding company the amount paid.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: What if there is a recorded lien on the title?A: If the bond is over $5,000.00 and a lienholder is shown on the Texas title record for out of state title record a release of lien will be required. Most of the time we are able to obtain a release for you if the lien has been paid.
© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: Can I sell the vehicle on the bonded title?A: Yes, the bonded title is a negotiable Texas title.© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: How is the Bond Premium determined?A: The value of the vehicle is determined by using the full Standard Presumptive Value (SPV) from the TX Department of Motor Vehicles at www.dmv.tx.gov
If no SPV is found, N.A.D.A. value is used.
If no value is found either through SPV or N.A.D.A. then an appraisal form is required to be submitted by the bonded title applicant.
The value determined by SPV, N.A.D.A, or appraisal will be multiplied by 1.5 to determine the amount of the bond.
Once the value has been determined contact Greater Texas Insurance Managers & Agency, Inc. toll free at 1-877-473-2806 or 512-250-5055.
You may also visit their website at www.greatertexasins.com
© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: Can I get a bonded title on an abandoned vehicle?A: No. Abandoned vehicles must be disposed of through law enforcement.
© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: Why is the bill of sale necessary if I didn't receive the title when I purchased the vehicle?A: The bill of sale can often reduce the amount of sales tax due when the title is applied for. When a bill of sale is not available you are required to pay sales tax based on the amount of the bond.
© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
Q: How do I obtain your service?A: Please mail, email or fax to us along with a service fee of $100.00 the:The bonded title questionnaire
Fax #: 1-866-423-0383
Mailing address: 2919 Manchaca Road, Suite 208, Austin, TX 78704
Email: sfry@frytitle.com
If faxing or emailing your information please contact us to furnish us with your credit card information.
© Copyright Fry Auto Title Service 2001-2009
General Registration | Disabled Registration | General Titling | Motorcycles |
Boats | New Residents | Plates and Stickers | Specialty Plates |Trailers| Bonded Titles | Sales Tax and SPV |Sales Tax and SPV
Q: I've heard there is a new sales tax law for used vehicles. Is this true?A: Yes. Effective October 1, 2006 the legislature passed a bill which established SPV (Standard Presumptive Value) for sales tax purposes. A summary of the law and more detailed information may be viewed through this link: http://www.traviscountytax.org/pdfs/SPVFactSheet.pdf
Q: What is the new law regarding gift tax on motor vehicles?
A: Effective September 1, 2009 the legislature passed a bill determining when a transaction qualifies as a gift for motor vehicle tax purposes. The new law states the only transactions that qualify to be taxed as gifts ($10) are those where the vehicles are received from a
- parent or stepparent
- grandparent or grandchild
- child or stepchild
- sibling
- guardian
- descendent's estate
A vehicle also qualifies to be taxed as a gift when it is donated to, or given by, a nonprofit service organization qualifying under the Internal Revenue Code, Sec. 501(c)(3)
All other motor vehicle transfers made without payment of consideration are now defined as sales and will be subject to tax calculated on the normal Standard Presumptive Value (SPV)
To document a gift, the donor and person receiving the vehicle must complete a joint notarized Affidavit of Motor Vehicle Gift Transfer (Form 14-317) describing the transaction and the relationship between the parties. This document will be submitted to the Application for Title.
