Texas DMV Offers Waivers, Extensions In Light Of Coronavirus

AUSTIN, TEXAS — The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles is waiving normal requirements for vehicle registration, the filing of titles and securing placards for disabled parking as a way of practicing "social distancing" suggested by health officials amid the new coronavirus threat, officials said Monday.

The move comes on the heels of a March 13 gubernatorial proclamation declaring the state a disaster area given the growing threat of the respiratory virus outbreak now known as COVID-19. The declaration ushered in more relaxed protocols for the aforementioned tasks while also granting a temporary extension for an individual with an expired 30-day temporary permit to obtain another permit or Texas registration.

The temporary waiver applies to vehicle owners in all Texas counties as set forth by the governor's earlier proclamation. The temporary waiver is in effect until 60 days after the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles notifies the public of more traditional protocol. The 60-day period will apply for all Texas counties, officials noted.

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The purpose of the waiver is to prevent customers from having to physically visit a county tax assessor-collector office to obtain initial registration or obtain a 30-day temporary permit, to transfer title or to renew registration or a permanent disabled parking placard, officials reiterated.

Related story: Coronavirus: Precautions Taken At Texas Drivers License Offices

Customers may continue to renew their registration online at www.TxDMV.gov. At this time, The state transportation agency continues to fill online registration sticker requests and process all other online services, officials said. The agency has alerted law enforcement agencies and the offices of the county tax assessor-collectors of the temporary waiver, Texas Department of Motor Vehicles said.

Graphic via Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.