Welcome to Texas! The boxes are unpacked (mostly), you have found your favorite taco spot, and now it is time for the less exciting part: making it official.
Texas gives new residents specific deadlines for registering a car and getting a Texas driver's license. Here is your step-by-step checklist, in the right order, for the Houston area.
Quick answer: New Texas residents have 30 days to register their vehicle and 90 days to get a Texas driver's license, according to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV). In Harris and Fort Bend counties, you will need a passing emissions inspection before you can register.
Your Two Key Deadlines
Task | Deadline | Where |
|---|---|---|
Register your vehicle | Within 30 days of moving to Texas | Your county tax assessor-collector's office |
Get a Texas driver's license | Within 90 days of moving to Texas | Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) |
TxDMV warns that penalty fees may apply if you do not register your vehicle within 30 days.
Step 1: Get Texas Car Insurance
TxDMV lists Texas vehicle insurance as the first step. You will need proof of insurance at the inspection station.
Step 2: Get an Emissions Inspection (Houston Area)
Here is something that changed recently. Starting January 1, 2025, Texas eliminated the annual safety inspection for non-commercial vehicles. But 17 counties still require a passing emissions inspection before registration, and that list includes Harris, Fort Bend, Brazoria, Galveston, and Montgomery counties.
If you live in one of those counties, get your emissions inspection at a state inspection station in your new county of residence. For vehicles last registered out of state, the inspection also takes care of the required VIN certification in emissions counties.
Step 3: Register Your Vehicle
Take your proof of insurance, your inspection, and your proof of ownership, such as your out-of-state title or current registration, to your local county tax assessor-collector's office. You will apply for a Texas title and registration in person.
Step 4: Get Your Texas Driver's License
You can drive on a valid out-of-state license for up to 90 days after moving to Texas. Before that deadline, apply for your Texas license at a DPS office.
Tips:
- Register your vehicle first. Once your car is registered, you are clear to apply for your Texas license.
- Schedule a DPS appointment ahead of time, or go and wait for an opening.
- Check DPS's website for the current list of documents to bring, including proof of Texas residency.
Step 5: Register to Vote
You must register to vote in the county where you live. A Texas voter registration becomes effective 30 days after the registrar receives it. If you later move to a different Texas county, you will need to re-register in your new county.
Bonus: Two Homeowner To-Dos
If you just bought a home, add these to your list:
- File your homestead exemption. It is free and can lower your school taxes. (See You Got the Keys. Now What?)
- Pick your electricity plan on Power to Choose. (See You Know You're a Houston Homeowner When...)
Requirements and fees can change. Check TxDMV and DPS websites for the latest details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to get a Texas driver's license after moving? New residents must get a Texas driver's license from DPS within 90 days of moving to the state.
How long do I have to register my car in Texas? Within 30 days of moving to Texas. TxDMV says penalty fees may apply after that.
Do I still need a vehicle inspection in Texas? Texas eliminated the annual safety inspection for non-commercial vehicles on January 1, 2025. But 17 counties, including Harris and Fort Bend, still require a passing emissions inspection before registration.
How do I register to vote after moving to Texas? Register in the county where you live. Your registration becomes effective 30 days after the registrar receives it.
Welcome Home
Moving to a new state is a lot. Ryan Adams and The Adams Group TX help relocating families find the right home and settle in, from your first showing to your first Texas license plate. Call us at (832) 308-7633 or visit us at 5822 Sienna Parkway, Suite 500, Missouri City, TX 77459.
