Should I keep my license plates when selling a vehicle in Texas?

Question

I am about to sell my car as a private seller to a private buyer in Texas. I have a Bill of Sale worked up. Can anyone offer any advice on what I need to allow for a smooth transaction?

Answer 1

Yes, keep your license plates.

Answer 2

Yes, you keep your plates for sure.  If you let the buyer keep your plates, they can delay the registration.

Worst case scenario - They use the car to perform an illegal activity (burglary, hit and run, etc) and the plates lead back to you.

You get - Cash (payment for vehicle, don't take a personal check) and a copy of the bill of sale.

The buyer gets - Vehicle not including current plates or registration, Vehicle title and the original bill of sale.

Answer 3

Tell the DVA it's no longer yours.

Answer 4

Best thing to do (I just did it few months ago) is for both you and the buyer go to your county tax office that handles Car registrations and sign over the title to him and he will also at this time take over your plates/registration.  

This will make everything legal and if the car is involved in a Crime the next day, you will not have a Cop knocking your door down saying it's your car/plates that were involved.  You will have paperwork stating the car belongs to the other guy.

Answer 5

Yes keep your plates, it's illegal for anyone else to use them!