When you buy a car, the dealer issues a temporary made of specialized paper. This allows you to drive the vehicle legally while the permanent metal plates are being processed. Be cautious of unauthorized sellers offering "paper tags" without a vehicle sale, as this is a known black-market issue in Texas.
: If you buy from a dealer, they are legally required to handle the title application on your behalf. You should receive a receipt as proof. Some dealers, like Cherry Cars , even offer fully online paperwork with doorstep delivery.
: The seller must sign over the original title (often called a "pink slip") to you.
: When buying from an individual, it is best to accompany the seller to the County Tax Office to ensure the title is free of legal issues or salvage brands before you pay. A Note on "Paper Tags"
: This is the Application for Texas Title and/or Registration , which is required to officially record the change in ownership.