Chris Darilek wrote:

My experience in Texas is that when I go to a title transfer company all I
need for title is the seller's signiture on the back, proof of insurance
(just call your provider and get a fax of the statement) and $100.  They
don't care about inspection.

Chris,

You may be correct for cars with current Texas titles.  For vehicles brought
in from out of state, you need a "green sheet" and an inspection.  The
inspection is for safety.  The green sheet is also completed by the inspector
and confirms that the VIN plates match the title.  It has to be running for
both.  I know because when I brought my crewcab in from California I was
having it worked on for a few little things.  I tried to get an inspection
and registration at the same time because all the lights, horn, turn signals,
etc. were working, even when it wasn't rolling.  I was told I'd have to wait
until the mechanical stuff was completed so it could be driven.

I tried a local title place first that was highly recommended by a local old
car collector.  They said it would cost $50.  As soon as I told them it was
an out of state title and a lost title, almost in effect an abandoned
vehicle, the price went to $300.  They probably were going to use something
like International Title, pay them $120 and keep the rest.

David