How to Renew Motor Vehicle Registration in Texas?
Vehicle registration renewal is required for all Texas residents to maintain legal driving privileges. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) oversees the state's vehicle registration system, while county tax assessor-collector offices handle registration services on behalf of TxDMV.
Texas Vehicle Registration Renewal Requirements
Essential Documentation and Requirements
Texas vehicle owners must satisfy the following requirements when renewing their registration:
• Valid Vehicle Insurance: Proof of current liability insurance meeting Texas minimum requirements (30/60/25 coverage)
• Vehicle Identification: Registration renewal notice, Texas license plate number, or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Government-Issued Photo ID: Current driver's license or state-issued identification card
• Emissions Inspection (if applicable): Required for vehicles registered in designated counties
Emissions Testing Requirements
Vehicles registered in the following 17 counties must obtain a passing emissions inspection before registration renewal:
• Brazoria
• Collin
• Dallas
• Denton
• El Paso
• Ellis
• Fort Bend
• Galveston
• Harris
• Johnson
• Kaufman
• Montgomery
• Parker
• Rockwall
• Tarrant
• Travis
• Williamson
The Texas Department of Public Safety provides detailed information about emissions testing requirements. Use the DPS Inspection Station Locator to find certified inspection stations.
Important Update: As of January 1, 2025, most non-commercial vehicles are no longer required to obtain safety inspections, but emissions testing remains mandatory in designated counties.
Renewal Timeline and Grace Period
• Early Renewal: Begin renewal process up to 90 days before expiration
• Grace Period: Texas law provides a five-day grace period after expiration
• Late Renewal: Renewals accepted up to 12 months after expiration (without citation for expired registration)
• New Residents: Must register within 30 days of establishing Texas residency
How Much Is Car Registration Renewal in Texas in 2025
2025 Texas Vehicle Registration Fee Schedule
The following table shows the base registration fees effective January 1, 2025:
| Vehicle Type | Weight Classification | Base Registration Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Vehicles/Trucks | 6,000 lbs. or less | $50.75 |
| All Vehicles | 6,001 - 10,000 lbs. | $54.00 |
| Motorcycles/Mopeds | All weights | $30.00 |
| Trailers/Travel Trailers | 6,000 lbs. or less | $45.00 |
Heavy Vehicle Registration Fees
Vehicles weighing 10,001 lbs. or more pay the following registration fees:
| Weight Range | Registration Fee |
|---|---|
| 10,001 - 18,000 lbs. | $110.00 |
| 18,001 - 25,999 lbs. | $205.00 |
| 26,000 - 40,000 lbs. | $340.00 |
| 40,001 - 54,999 lbs. | $535.00 |
| 55,000 - 70,000 lbs. | $740.00 |
| 70,001 - 80,000 lbs. | $840.00 |
Note: Commercial vehicle diesel fees not included in above amounts
County Local Fees
Local fees vary by county and range from $0.00 to $31.50. The following table shows local fees by county:
| County | Local Fee | County | Local Fee | County | Local Fee | County | Local Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anderson | $11.50 | Bell | $11.50 | Collin | $11.50 | Ellis | $10.00 |
| Bexar | $21.50 | Cameron | $21.50 | Dallas | $11.50 | El Paso | $20.00 |
| Denton | $11.50 | Fort Bend | $11.50 | Harris | $11.50 | Hidalgo | $20.00 |
| Johnson | $11.50 | Kaufman | $11.50 | Montgomery | $10.00 | Parker | $11.50 |
| Rockwall | $11.50 | Tarrant | $10.00 | Travis | $11.50 | Webb | $20.00 |
| Williamson | $11.50 |
Counties not listed charge $10.00 unless otherwise specified. Some counties (Borden, Kenedy, Kent, Loving, McMullen, Sterling, Ward) charge $0.00 local fees.
Additional Mandatory Fees
Registration renewal includes the following state-mandated fees:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Processing and Handling Fee | $4.75 | Covers processing costs |
| Inspection Replacement Fee | $7.50 | Non-commercial vehicles |
| Emissions Inspection Fee | $2.75 | If applicable |
| Electric Vehicle Fee | $200.00 | Annual fee for electric vehicles |
| Electric Vehicle Fee (2-year) | $400.00 | New vehicles with 2-year registration |
How To Renew Vehicle Registration Online in Texas
Online Renewal Platforms
TxDMV offers two online renewal options:
Texas by Texas (TxT) Platform The Texas by Texas (TxT) platform provides secure, account-based renewal services with enhanced features and improved security.
Direct TxDMV Online Renewal The TxDMV Renewal Portal allows renewal without creating an account for users who prefer not to establish a TxT account.
Both platforms provide a $1.00 discount for online renewals.
Online Renewal Process
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
• Registration must not be expired for more than 12 months
• No outstanding citations for expired registration
• Current insurance coverage in effect
Step 2: Gather Required Information
• Registration renewal notice or license plate number
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Current insurance policy information
• Payment method (credit or debit card)
Step 3: Complete Application
• Access chosen online platform
• Enter vehicle and owner information accurately
• Upload or verify insurance documentation
• Review all fees and submit payment
Step 4: Receive Confirmation
• Download temporary registration receipt for immediate use
• New registration sticker mailed within 7-10 business days
Alternative Renewal Methods
Mail-In Renewal
Submit the following documents to your county tax assessor-collector office:
• Completed renewal notice
• Copy of current Vehicle Inspection Report (if applicable
• Proof of liability insurance
• Payment for all applicable fees
In-Person Renewal
Visit your local county tax assessor-collector office with:
• Registration renewal notice
• Government-issued photo identification
• Current insurance documentation
• Payment for renewal fees
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV)
4000 Jackson Avenue, Austin, TX 78731
Phone: 1-888-DMV-GOTX (1-888-368-4689) or (512) 465-3000
Official Website: TxDMV.gov
TxDMV Austin Regional Service Center
1001 E. Parmer Lane, Suite A, Austin, TX 78753
Phone: (512) 465-3000
County tax assessor-collector offices handle registration services statewide. Locate your local office using the TxDMV County Office Directory.
