AUSTIN - To combat fraud and improve motorist safety, the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) will begin processing all motor vehicle title applications through the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS).

"While doing a title check on a vehicle before buying it has always been a good idea, it is now even more important than ever." said Nichols. "The best way to prevent any unpleasant surprises when you go to title your vehicle will be to perform your own title check before you buy."

When buying a used vehicle, there is a risk of buying a vehicle which has been wrecked, rebuilt or flooded, when you think you are getting a great car. 'Title washing' occurs when a car is sold in one state with a clean title, but has negative information on the title from another state in its history. By processing all motor vehicle title applications through NMVTIS the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles hopes to prevent this scam from happening to Texas residents. NMVTIS produces a title history report that shows where and what states the vehicle was titled, previous odometer readings and will also show whether something in the history of the car could affect the vehicles safety and/or value.

Texans can now do a title check on their vehicle through NMVTIS in order to find out their vehicle's complete title history. For questions, call TxDMV at 1 (888) 368-4689.

To do a title check, simply:

• Get the Vehicle Identification Number of the vehicle you want to buy
• Go to the "Title Check" page at www.TxDMV.gov and look for the icon: TITLE
• Select one of the Department of Justice approved title check providers
• Follow the steps to obtain the title report

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