If you need to handle vehicle-related business for someone else in Texas—such as selling a car, transferring a title, or renewing registration—you cannot simply show up and sign their name. You need a specific legal document called a Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney.
Texas is unique because it uses two different forms depending on the situation. Choosing the wrong one will result in your application being rejected at the county tax office.
This guide explains the difference between the Limited POA (VTR-271) and the Secure POA (VTR-271-A), provides the official download link, and lists exactly what you need to bring.
The Golden Rule: Which Form Do You Need?
Before you download anything, check this table. Using the wrong form is the #1 reason for rejection.
| Form Name | Limited Power of Attorney | Secure Power of Attorney |
| Form Number | VTR-271 | VTR-271-A |
| Downloadable? | Yes (Online PDF) | No (Must pick up in person) |
| Best For… | General tasks: Registration renewal, title transfer (if noodometer reading is needed), obtaining a certified copy of title. | Selling a vehicle when the title is lost or held by a lienholder, and an odometer disclosure is required. |
| Notary? | No (Requires Photo ID) | Yes (Strict Federal Requirement) |
Summary: If you are just renewing registration or titling a car where the owner has the title in hand, use the VTR-271. If you are selling a car and the title is missing, you likely need the VTR-271-A.
Form 1: Limited Power of Attorney (VTR-271)
This is the standard form used for most transactions. It grants an “agent” (the person visiting the office) the permission to sign on behalf of the “grantor” (the vehicle owner).
Key Requirements
- No Notary Needed: You do not need to get this form notarized.
- Photo ID Requirement: The Grantor (owner) MUST provide a clear copy of their government-issued photo ID(Driver’s License or Passport) along with the form. Without this photocopy, the Power of Attorney is invalid.
- Original Signature: The Tax Office requires the original wet-ink signature on the form. Do not bring a scanned or faxed copy of the form itself.
How to Fill It Out
- Download: Get the official Form VTR-271 (PDF) from the TxDMV website.
- Vehicle Details: Enter the VIN, Year, Make, and License Plate number.
- Grantor Info: Enter the owner’s full legal name and address.
- Grantee Info: Enter the agent’s (your) name and address.
- Sign: The owner must sign and date the “Certification” section.
Form 2: Secure Power of Attorney (VTR-271-A)
This is a special, federally regulated document printed on secure paper. You cannot print it at home because it is used to legally transfer mileage (odometer) readings when the original title isn’t available.
When is it Required?
You must use this form if:
- You are transferring ownership (selling/trading).
- The vehicle is subject to odometer disclosure (under 10 years old).
- AND the original title is either Lost or Held by a Lienholder (bank).
How to Get It
Since you cannot download it, you must obtain one from:
- A TxDMV Regional Service Center.
- Your local County Tax Assessor-Collector’s office.
- A licensed Texas car dealer (if you are trading a car in).
Checklist: What to Bring to the Tax Office
To ensure your visit is successful, bring the following packet of documents:
- The Signed POA Form: Original VTR-271 (or VTR-271-A).
- Grantor’s ID: A photocopy of the vehicle owner’s Driver’s License or Passport.
- Agent’s ID: Your actual Driver’s License (to prove you are the person named on the POA).
- Application Documents: (e.g., Form 130-U for Title Transfer or renewal notice).
- Fees: Cash, Check, or Card (check your specific county for payment policies).
Conclusion
Most Texans will only ever need the VTR-271 (Limited POA). It is free, downloadable, and does not require a notary—just don’t forget the photocopy of the owner’s ID! However, if you are selling a newer car without a title, stop looking for a PDF and head to your local tax office to pick up the secure VTR-271-A.
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