How to Register Your Motorcycle

Motorcycles and mopeds, like most other vehicles, must be properly registered in order to legally enjoy motorcycle riding on Texas roads.

To do so:

1. Visit a Texas Department of Transportation (DOT) County Tax Assessor's office. Although motorcycle registration renewals can be completed by mail or online if you meet the specific eligibility criteria, you need to visit the TX DOT County Tax Assessor's office or an approved subcontractor station in person to complete the initial registration.
2. Complete a motorcycle registration application that describes the type, model, vehicle identification number (VIN), and engine capacity of the motorcycle or moped.
3. Present proof of your identity.
4. Present proof that you are the legal owner of the motorcycle and that you have a valid liability insurance policy.
5. Show a safety inspection certificate obtained at an official inspection station
6. Pay the vehicle registration necessary fees. The fee to register your motorcycle is $30.30. Local fees and additional taxes may be assessed according to your county of residence.

When you register your motorcycle, you may opt to purchase personalized license plates with a special design or a unique message. Plates are available in general Texas state pride themes, as well as designs to support athletic teams and various community or charitable non-profit organizations.

Registering Gasoline or Battery-Powered Scooters

If you're planning to register your vehicle, please keep in mind that gasoline or battery-powered scooters generally can't pass the vehicle safety inspection that is required for them to be registered or driven on public roads. Therefore, if you have a scooter (some of them are known as pocket bikes or toy motorcycles), you can operate it on public property only.