Texas VTR-346 — Release Seller Liability
Texas is one of the few states that lets the seller actively notify TxDMV that the vehicle has been sold. The form is VTR-346 Vehicle Transfer Notification, and filing it within 30 days of the sale releases you from civil and criminal liability for the vehicle — including tolls, parking tickets, red-light tickets, and any crimes committed using the vehicle until the buyer registers it.
Why VTR-346 is critical
- Buyers sometimes wait weeks (or never) to register the vehicle in their name.
- While the title is still under your name in TxDMV records, any tolls, tickets, or police investigation involving the vehicle points to YOU.
- Filing VTR-346 puts a flag on the vehicle in TxDMV records — the system knows you sold it on the date you declared.
- Best practice: file VTR-346 the SAME DAY as the sale, not 'within 30 days'.
How to file VTR-346
- Online (recommended): visit txdmv.gov, search 'Vehicle Transfer Notification', and submit the form — it's free.
- By mail: print Form VTR-346 from the TxDMV website, fill it in (VIN, plate, buyer name, sale date) and mail to the TxDMV address listed on the form.
- Keep the confirmation email or certified mail receipt as your proof.