How to Register Wrecked Vehicles in Texas

Since Hurricane Katrina in 2005, many vehicle owners have been considering registering a wrecked or salvaged vehicle. In Texas, many of the vehicles that were totaled by insurance companies were still drivable. In order to legally register these vehicles in Texas, vehicle owners must follow specific protocol.

Instructions

1

Obtain Form 130-U (for a blue-colored rebuilt salvage title) from either from your local Department of Motor Vehicles office or by checking online (you can also call the DMV to find out the easiest way to obtain this form). Complete Form 130-U in its entirety, carefully reading through it and answer all questions.

2

Submit completed Form 130-U to the local Texas county tax office or where the vehicle was purchased. Show proper identification and pay the fee to the clerk at the counter. Call with question before visiting the county tax office if necessary (call the Vehicle Titles and Registration Division Office at 512-465-7611).

3

Wait for the title to arrive by mail at the address you gave the office. The title should arrive within three weeks of turning in the application.