Correcting Texas title details before selling

Compare your records first

Compare the VIN on the vehicle with the title and check the recorded owner’s name. Tell the purchasing partner about a discrepancy before pickup. Do not alter the VIN plate or overwrite a title entry to make the documents match.

Contact the county tax office for a name error

TxDMV directs owners with a misspelled name to their county tax office. A department or county error can be corrected without a charge; an error based on the submitted application requires a new application and fee under its guidance.

A VIN concern needs its own review

A suspected incorrect or altered VIN is different from a spelling mistake. Ask the county office or TxDMV which review is needed before a transfer. Keep photos and the existing records available, and do not sign a statement you cannot verify.

Resume the sale with consistent documents

Once the record is resolved, confirm which originals the buyer needs and retain copies. If the title is simply missing rather than incorrect, start with the certified-copy guide instead.

Official sources.

TxDMV title correction and vehicle identification guidance

Sources reviewed September 10, 2026. Use the current instructions for your vehicle and transaction.

Continue with your Texas sale.

Texas vehicle transfer notification after sellingReport your sale and retain the confirmation separately from the title transfer.Replacing a missing Texas vehicle titleCheck the recorded owners and any lien before applying for a certified copy.Selling a Texas vehicle with a lienArrange the lender’s release before completing your vehicle sale.Selling a Texas car through an authorized representativeUse the correct authorization for the vehicle and transaction.Selling an inherited Texas vehicleEstablish the estate’s transfer route before arranging a sale.Texas recycling without a title: the limited exemptionA recycler exemption is not a general permission to sell any car without ownership documents.Texas salvage and nonrepairable vehicle documentsIdentify the title classification before agreeing to a sale or road use.Texas license plates and vehicle collection after a saleDecide how the vehicle will leave before handing over the keys.Disposing of an abandoned vehicle in TexasEstablish disposal authority before asking a buyer to collect a vehicle left on your property.Texas vehicle sale: mileage and odometer disclosurePrepare an accurate mileage statement even when the vehicle no longer runs.Selling a flood-damaged car in TexasResolve the insurance claim and ownership position before arranging a separate sale.Texas inspections, emissions and selling a non-running carSeparate registration requirements from arranging a tow for your unwanted vehicle.Texas junk-car sale paperwork checklistGather the documents that match your ownership situation before collection.Texas junk-car pickup and sale recordsMake the collection straightforward and keep a clear record of the handover.