What You Need to Know After Buying a Car in Texas

As someone who recently went through the ordeal of purchasing a new car, I can tell you that there are many parts of the process that are not as straightforward as I would like.

Hopefully, these common questions answered by the Texas DMV will shed some light and make your process a little smoother than mine was.

Read More: 91,000 Reasons to Put Your Phone Down While Driving

Let's begin!

Texas Permanent Plate + Registration Timeline

It's been over 30 days and I still don't have my metal plates and title, what's the deal?

The dealership has 30 days to send you the title and registration (45 days if you are financing). If they exceed the 30-day mark, you can submit a dealer complaint to have the situation investigated.

If you purchased a vehicle without a title, you can submit a Bonded Title Application, along with a $15 fee to the Texas DMV, and they'll take care of it for you.

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Another option if your car's title was never received or if it was lost is to purchase a replacement (called Certified Copy of Title). Don't worry, the fee for a replacement is only $2 by mail.

How do I check the registration status of my vehicle?

You can always check your registration status through the "Where's My Sticker" tool on the Texas DMV website.

A VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is required for registration. If you don't have a VIN, follow the VIN Assignment process on the Texas DMV site.

To renew your vehicle's registration, you must first pass an inspection test at any inspection station within your county of residence. If you live in any emissions county in Texas, you will have to pass an emissions test as well before registration.

Once you've passed the inspection and emissions--if applicable--tests, you can then register your vehicle online or in person at your local county tax office. If you choose the online route, go to the Texas by Texas webpage and follow the steps they have laid out for you.

If you choose the in-person option, you'll need to bring the following documents to your local county tax office:

• Your VIN or license plate number
• Your driver's license
• Proof of car insurance
• Proof of passing the inspection/emissions test

Don't be surprised to have to pay a fee which can vary among counties.

More common questions can be seen, along with answers, on the Texas DMV website to help make your car-buying process that much smoother.