TL;DR
Apply for a Texas driver’s license within 90 days of moving.

Transfer your vehicle title and registration within 30 days.

A vehicle safety inspection (and emissions test, if required) must be completed before registration.

Proof of insurance meeting Texas requirements is mandatory.

Following these steps ensures you remain compliant with Texas state law after moving.
Moving to a new state is exciting, but it comes with its share of responsibilities—especially when it comes to transferring your driver’s license and vehicle title. If you’re relocating to Texas, the process is fairly straightforward, but it does require following the right steps to ensure compliance with state law.
At Get Drivers Ed, we know how important it is to have your documents in order when settling into a new state. That’s why we’ve put together this step-by-step guide to help you transfer both your license and your vehicle title smoothly in the Lone Star State.

1. Transferring Your Driver’s License to Texas

One of the first things you’ll want to do when you move to Texas is transfer your out-of-state driver’s license. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), you must transfer your license within 90 days of establishing residency.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before heading to the Texas Department of Public Safety, make sure you have the following documents ready:

Proof of Identity: You’ll need to present one primary identity document, such as a valid passport, a birth certificate, or a permanent resident card.
Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Presence: Documents like a U.S. passport or valid immigration documents can serve this purpose.
Proof of Texas Residency: You must provide two documents proving you live in Texas. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your Texas address.
Social Security Number: Bring your Social Security card or a document that contains your SSN.
Current Out-of-State License: This will allow you to skip taking the driving test, provided your license is valid and in good standing.

Step 2: Visit a Texas DPS Office

Once you’ve gathered the required documents, visit your local Texas DPS office. While some offices accept walk-ins, it's highly recommended to make an appointment ahead of time, as wait times can be long.

During your visit, you’ll need to:

Submit the Required Documents: Hand over the documents to prove your identity, residency, and legal presence.
Pass a Vision Exam: All applicants are required to pass a basic vision test.
Provide Fingerprints and Photo: Your fingerprints and photo will be taken at the DPS office.
Pay the License Fee: The fee for transferring your driver’s license varies but is typically between $25 and $33.

If you meet all requirements, you’ll receive a temporary paper license, and your official Texas driver’s license will be mailed to you within a few weeks.

Step 3: Special Considerations for Teens and Adults

If you're under 18, additional requirements include completing an approved driver education course. At Get Drivers Ed, we offer a state-approved Texas driver education course that can help new drivers get licensed quickly and safely.

2. Transferring Your Vehicle Title to Texas

After taking care of your driver’s license, the next step is transferring your vehicle title to Texas. This must be done within 30 days of establishing residency in the state.

Step 1: Obtain a Texas Vehicle Inspection

Before you can register your vehicle in Texas, you’ll need to get a Texas vehicle inspection. This inspection is required to ensure that your car meets the state’s safety and emissions standards.

Where to Go: Texas has many certified inspection stations where you can get this done. Look for a sign that says “Texas Department of Public Safety Inspection Station” to find an approved location.
What to Expect: The inspection includes checking your vehicle’s brakes, tires, lights, windshield wipers, and other safety features. If your vehicle passes the inspection, you’ll be issued a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR), which you’ll need to bring when registering your vehicle.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Once your vehicle has passed inspection, you'll need the following documents to transfer the title:

Proof of Vehicle Inspection: Bring your Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR).
Proof of Ownership: Typically, this will be your out-of-state vehicle title or registration. If there’s a lien on the vehicle, you’ll also need lienholder information.
Proof of Texas Insurance: Texas requires that you have a minimum level of car insurance before you can register your vehicle. Make sure your insurance meets state requirements.
Proof of Identity and Texas Residency: The same documents used for your driver’s license can also be used here.

Step 3: Visit Your Local County Tax Office

In Texas, vehicle registration and title transfers are handled by your local county tax office. After gathering all the necessary documents, visit your county’s office to complete the title transfer and registration process.

Submit the Required Documents: Provide your proof of inspection, ownership, insurance, and identity.
Pay the Title and Registration Fees: Fees vary depending on your county and the type of vehicle, but expect to pay between $50 and $90. If you’re transferring a vehicle with an existing lien, there may be additional paperwork and fees involved.
Receive Your Texas License Plates: After completing the title transfer, you’ll receive new Texas license plates, which must be displayed on your vehicle.

Step 4: Consider Specialty Plates

Texas offers a wide variety of specialty license plates, from those supporting universities to plates that feature wildlife. If you’d like to add some personal flair to your vehicle, you can browse the specialty plate options online through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.

3. Additional Considerations

Registering Your Vehicle Annually

Unlike some states, Texas requires that you renew your vehicle registration annually. You’ll receive a renewal notice in the mail, and you can complete the renewal process online, by mail, or in person at your local tax office. Be sure to keep your inspection and insurance up to date, as both are required for registration renewal.

Driver Education Requirements

If you’re new to driving, it’s important to note that Texas has specific driver education requirements, especially for teens and new adult drivers. At Get Drivers Ed, we offer online driver education courses that are approved by the state and designed to make the licensing process as smooth as possible.

Conclusion: Moving to Texas? Let Get Drivers Ed Help You Get on the Road

Transferring your driver’s license and vehicle title to Texas may seem like a hassle, but by following the steps outlined in this blog, you can make the process much smoother. Remember, you’ll need to transfer your license within 90 days and your vehicle title within 30 days of becoming a Texas resident.

At Get Drivers Ed, we are committed to helping new drivers and residents navigate the licensing process. Whether you need to complete a driver education course or simply want to learn more about Texas driving laws, our online course is here to help. Take the first step towards a successful move to Texas by getting all your documents in order today!