Are you going to be driving a car?

If so, here's what you need to know...

There are several specific things you need to do in order to register your car and to obtain a TX driver's license.  

Car Insurance - This is standard fare, so either contact your current insurance provider and switch the coverage to TX, or get a new policy from one of the friendly insurance companies that occupy commercial TV time just as much as the beer, car, or movie makers. 

Oh, and speaking of beer and driving, the BAC limit in TX is .08%, so be careful out there.  Here's the number of a taxi company that can pick you up real quick like.  Yellow Cab  (512) 452-9999


Vehicle Inspection - Before you can register your car, you need to get it inspected at an official location.  They're everywhere, including the neighborhood gas station, so it shouldn't be an issue in finding something close to your house.  There will be an official sign out front signifying that it's an official inspection spot.  Oh, and make sure you keep the paperwork they give you in a safe place because if it's folded, creased, or imperfect in any way, the DMV won't accept it. 


Registering your car - Must be done within 30 days of moving into the state.  You'll need to go to one of the government offices and wait in line for your number to be called like most DMV's across the country.  Here's what you'll need to bring with you:

• inspection certification
• proof of liability insurance
• the vehicle's odometer reading if it is less than 10 years old
• an original out-of-state title, proof of registration, proof of sales tax payment or current foreign/military ownership document
• completed Form 130-U
• the following fees:
  • registration fee
  • title application fee of $28 or $33, depending on the county
  • new resident tax of $90

Getting your TX drivers license - Must be done within 90 days of moving into the state.  There are specific offices that only focus on drivers' licenses, so the crowds get pretty big, so make sure you go with plenty of time on your hands.  Here are a couple Driver's License offices:

Austin South

4719 South Congress Avenue
AUSTIN, TX 78745-2302
(512) 444-5241 

North Lamar

6121 North Lamar
AUSTIN, TX 78752
(512) 424-2076

If you have a VALID out-of-state license in your possession, please bring it to the driver license office to surrender. The written and driving examinations will be waived, but you must still pass a vision exam.