If you are a Texas resident and own a vehicle, you have likely heard of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV.gov). TxDMV is a state agency that is responsible for overseeing all motor vehicle-related services in Texas.
They are dedicated to providing customer service and consumer protection and ensuring the success of motor vehicle-related industries in the state.
TxDMV is one of the few state agencies that actually brings in more revenue for the state than it expends on its own operations. This is because they collect various fees and taxes related to motor vehicles, including registration fees, title fees, and sales taxes on vehicles.
Some of the services that TxDMV provides include:
- Vehicle registration and titling
- Issuing driver’s licenses and ID cards
- Enforcing motor vehicle laws and regulations
- Providing information and resources to Texas residents about motor vehicle-related topics
If you need to register your vehicle, transfer a title, or obtain a driver’s license, you will likely need to visit a TxDMV office or work with a local county tax assessor-collector who handles most vehicle title and registration services on behalf of TxDMV. TxDMV also offers many services online, saving you time and hassle.
TxDMV Services
If you need any assistance related to vehicle titles, registration, permits, or inspections, the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) offers various services to help you. Here are some of the services that TxDMV provides:
Vehicle Titles and Registration
If you need to register your vehicle or transfer ownership, you can do so through your local county tax assessor-collector office. These offices handle most vehicle title and registration services on behalf of TxDMV. Some of the services that they offer include:
- Registration renewals (license plates and registration stickers)
- Vehicle title transfers
- Change of address on motor vehicle records
- Non-fee license plates such as Purple Heart and Disabled Veterans license plates
Motor Carrier
If you are a motor carrier, you can use TxDMV’s Motor Carrier Division to apply for permits, renew your registration, and manage your account. Some of the services that they offer include:
- Unified Carrier Registration (UCR)
- International Registration Plan (IRP)
- International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA)
- Over Axle/Over Gross Weight Tolerance Permit (OAW)
Oversize / Overweight Permits
If you need to transport oversize or overweight loads, you can apply for permits through TxDMV’s Oversize / Overweight Permits section. They offer a variety of permits, including:
- Single Trip Permit
- Annual Permit
- Superheavy Permit
- Utility Permit
Temporary Permits
If you need to operate a vehicle temporarily in Texas, you can apply for a temporary permit through TxDMV’s Temporary Permits section. They offer a variety of permits, including:
- 72-Hour Permit
- 144-Hour Permit
- 30-Day Permit
- 90-Day Permit
Vehicle Dealers
You can use TxDMV’s eLICENSING system to apply for and manage your license if you are a vehicle dealer. Some of the services that they offer include:
- New License Application
- Renewal License Application
- Change of Location
- Change of Ownership
Vehicle Inspection
If you need to get your vehicle inspected, you can use TxDMV’s Vehicle Inspection Program to find an inspection station near you. Some of the services that they offer include:
- Vehicle Inspection Station Locator
- Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR)
- Vehicle Inspection History
- Vehicle Inspection Requirements
Crime Records Service
If you need to request a criminal history record or fingerprint-based background check, you can use TxDMV’s Crime Records Service. Some of the services that they offer include:
- Criminal History Record Information (CHRI)
- Sex Offender Registry Search
- Fingerprinting Services
- Background Check
Driver License
If you need to apply for or renew your driver’s license, you can use TxDMV’s Driver License Division. Some of the services that they offer include:
- Driver License Renewal
- Driver License Replacement
- Driver License Address Change
- Driver License Status Check
TxDMV Online Services
TxDMV provides a variety of online services for Texas drivers. These services include:
- Vehicle registration renewal
- Specialty license plate ordering
- Change of address submission
- Duplicate registration and title requests
- Driving record requests
- Dealer license renewal
- Online payment of fines and fees
To access these services, visit the TxDMV.Gov website and select the appropriate service from the list.
TxDMV Locations
In addition to online services, TxDMV has locations throughout Texas where you can receive in-person assistance. These locations include:
- Regional Service Centers: These centers provide various services, including driver’s license issuance, commercial driver’s license issuance, and vehicle registration and titling.
- County Tax Assessor-Collector Offices: These offices handle most vehicle title and registration services on behalf of TxDMV, including registration renewals, vehicle title transfers, and change of address requests.
To find a TxDMV location near you, visit the TxDMV website and use their location search tool.
TxDMV Customer Service
| Contact Area | Phone Number | Fax Number |
|---|---|---|
| General Contact | ||
| Toll-Free | 1 (888) 368-4689 / 1 (888) DMV-GOTX | |
| Local (Austin) | (512) 465-3000 | (512) 465-4129 |
| Specific Contacts | ||
| Dealer Licensing Receptionist | (512) 465-4029 | |
| eTAG Helpline | (512) 465-4010 | |
| Licensing/Salvage Information | (888) 368-4689 / (512) 465-3000 | |
| Law Enforcement Assistance Team | (512) 465-1243 | |
| Advertising | (512) 465-4147 | |
| Dealer Enforcement/Training | (888) 368-4689 / (512) 465-3000 | |
| Enforcement Division Administrative Staff | (512) 465-4204 | |
| Lemon Law | (888) 368-4689 / (512) 465-3000 | |
| Motor Vehicle Investigations | (512) 465-4205 | (512) 465-5651 |
| Motor Carrier Investigations | (512) 465-1350 | (512) 465-5652 |
| Motor Carrier Enforcement/Training | (512) 465-1350 | (512) 465-5652 |
| MVCPA (Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Auth.) | (512) 465-1485 | |
| Office of Administrative Hearings | (512) 465-5000 | |
| Media Inquiries | (512) 465-1484 | |
| Specialty License Plates (incl. Military) | (512) 374-5010 | |
| Mailing Address | ||
| Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) | 4000 Jackson Avenue, Austin, Texas 78731 |
FAQs – People Also Ask
The fee for a title transfer in Texas varies depending on the county and type of vehicle. It typically ranges from $28 to $33.
You can obtain your Texas vehicle registration sticker at the county tax office or some grocery stores, such as H-E-B.
Some Texas DMV offices may accept walk-ins, but it’s highly recommended to check the specific office’s website or call them to confirm their policy on walk-ins.
To get a permit in Texas, you need to take a written test and pass a vision screening. You must also provide identification and proof of insurance and pay a fee.
It varies depending on the location and time of day. However, the Texas DMV’s website offers a wait time feature that allows you to check the estimated wait time at each office.
The cost of a Texas permit varies depending on the age of the applicant and the type of permit. It typically ranges from $16 to $25.
The Texas permit test covers various topics related to driving, including road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. While it can be challenging, with proper preparation and study, it can be passed successfully.
No, the Texas permit test is not available online. It must be taken in person at a Texas DMV office.
Conclusion
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) plays a vital role in ensuring that Texas drivers can easily access the services they need related to motor vehicles.
From vehicle registration and titling to driver’s licenses and ID cards, TxDMV provides a variety of services both online and in-person. Their focus on customer service and consumer protection has made them an essential agency for all Texas drivers.
Whether you need to renew your vehicle registration, transfer a vehicle title, or apply for a specialty license plate, TxDMV has you covered. So, take advantage of their services whenever you need them.
