The fraudulent transfer of a motor vehicle is a state jail felony in Texas.
How to Register a Car in Texas Without Title Step 1: Contact the Previous Owner or Seller. Step 2: Conduct a VIN Check. Step 3: Obtain a Bill of Sale. Step 4: Apply for a Bonded Title. Step 5: Get a Vehicle Inspection. Step 6: Gather All Required Documentation. Step 7: Submit Your Application to the Texas DMV.
Technically all you need is a bill of sale to buy/sell a car. Scrawl out a bill of sale with a pen and literally ANY piece of paper. BUT the new owner cannot register the car until they have a title. If you don't have a title because it has been lost, then either you need to contact the state and get a replacement.
The person who sold you the car needs to provide you a valid title. If he doesn't, sue him in small claims court for the value of the vehicle, along with any other expenses you have incurred.
"Registration Purposes Only", often referred to as "RPO", means that the vehicle is registered but not titled in Texas.
Yes, Texas recognizes handwritten bills of sale as valid, as long as they contain all the necessary information and are signed by both the buyer and the seller.
Bought a Vehicle Without a Title? Bonded Title Application (Form VTR-130-SOF) Any supporting evidence of ownership (Bill of Sale, Invoice, Cancelled Check, etc.) An original release(s) of lien or letter(s) of no interest if the vehicle has a lien of less than 10 years old. Acceptable photo ID.
Additional Reasons You Cannot Sell a Car Without a Pink Slip If the state you are purchasing the vehicle from does NOT issue titles for your particular vehicle you must get what is called a “title verification letter” so that the California DMV will accept a bill of sale in lieu of a title.