Texas Transportation Code 502.002 requires that the owner of a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer shall apply for registration of the vehicle. Transportation code 502.402 says a person commits an offense if the person operates a motor vehicle that has not been registered as required by law.
In most cases, the registration and titling of motor vehicles in Texas is done through the Tax Assessor – Collector offices in the owner’s county of residence. State Law requires that County Tax Assessor-Collectors act as agents for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).
Frequently asked questions about the Texas Motor Vehicle Registration and Title process can be viewed through TxDOT’s website.