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How-To: Vehicle Registration in Austin
Tips for Newcomers on Car Registration
Published on: October 16, 2023
Spud Dog is standing on front bumper of vehicle.
Photo By: Karsten Winegeart

If you are new to Austin, or if you have recently moved to the city, one of the first things you will need to do is register your car. There are a few different ways to register your car in Austin. You can register your car online, in person at a tax office, or by mail.

Car registration is a legal requirement in Texas, and it is important to do so as soon as possible after moving to the state.

To register your car online:

  1. Go to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) website and create an account.
  2. Once you have created an account, log in and select the “Register Your Vehicle” option.
  3. Enter your vehicle information, including the make, model, year, and VIN number.
  4. Pay the registration fee.
  5. Once you have paid the registration fee, you will be able to print a temporary registration certificate. You will need to carry this certificate with you until you receive your permanent registration certificate in the mail.

To register your car in person:

  1. Go to any TxDMV tax office in Austin.
  2. Bring the following documents with you:
      • Your vehicle title
      • Proof of insurance
      • A valid driver’s license
      • Payment for the registration fee
  3. Once you have arrived at the tax office, you will need to fill out a vehicle registration application.
  4. A tax office employee will review your application and documents. They will then calculate your registration fee and accept payment.
  5. Once you have paid the registration fee, you will be given a temporary registration certificate. You will need to carry this certificate with you until you receive your permanent registration certificate in the mail.

To register your car by mail:

  1. Complete a vehicle registration application. You can download the application from the TxDMV website.
  2.  Include the following documents with your application:
      • Your vehicle title
      • Proof of insurance
      • A valid driver’s license
      • Payment for the registration fee
  3. Mail your completed application and documents to the following address: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles P.O. Box 12649 Austin, TX 78711-2649
  4. Once you have registered your car, you will need to keep your registration current. Your registration will expire on the last day of the month in which your birthday falls. You can renew your registration online, in person at a tax office, or by mail.

Here are some additional tips for registering your car in Austin:

  • If you are moving to Texas from another state, you will need to transfer your vehicle title to Texas. You can do this online or in person at a tax office.
  • If you have a leased car, you will need to contact your leasing company to find out how to register your car in Texas.
  • If you have a salvage car, you will need to obtain a salvage title before you can register your car in Texas. You can apply for a salvage title online or in person at a tax office.
  • If you have a commercial vehicle, you will need to register your vehicle with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). You can do this online or in person at a TxDOT office.

Registering your car in Austin is a relatively simple process. By following the tips above, you can ensure that your car is registered properly and that you are in compliance with Texas law.