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What Is VTR 262? Understanding the Affidavit of Heirship for Motor Vehicle Transfers in Texas

When a loved one passes away and leaves behind a vehicle, transferring ownership can become a challenge—especially if there’s no will or the estate doesn’t go through probate. Fortunately, Texas offers a simplified process through Form VTR 262, also known as the Affidavit of Heirship for a Motor Vehicle.

But how does it work? Who can use it? And when is it the right solution?

At The Lange Firm, we help Texas families handle legal matters after a loved one’s death—including vehicle title transfers without probate. This blog will guide you through what VTR-262 is, when to use it, and how to complete it properly.

What Is Form VTR 262?

Form VTR 262, titled Affidavit of Heirship for a Motor Vehicle, is a legal document issued by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV). It allows heirs to transfer ownership of a vehicle when the registered owner has died without a will (intestate) or without formal probate.

The form acts as a sworn affidavit that:

• Confirms the identity of the deceased

• Lists the rightful heir(s) to the vehicle

• Asserts that no probate proceeding is pending or expected

• Allows the Texas DMV to transfer the vehicle title to the heir(s)

When Can You Use VTR 262?

You can use Form VTR-262 to transfer vehicle ownership if all the following apply:

• The deceased person was a Texas resident

• The vehicle is titled solely in the name of the deceased

• There is no will being probated

• The estate is not being administered through the court

• The heirs are in agreement about who should receive the vehicle

If the estate is going through probate or a will is being contested, this form is not appropriate—you’ll need a court order or letters testamentary instead.

Who Can Fill Out VTR 262?

Typically, one of the deceased person’s heirs completes the form. The person signing must:

• Have personal knowledge of the deceased’s family

• Be legally qualified to receive the vehicle (based on Texas intestate succession laws)

• Be willing to swear that the statements made are true under penalty of perjury

The affidavit must be signed in front of a notary and submitted with supporting documents.

How to Complete Form VTR 262: Step-by-Step

Here’s a quick overview of how to properly complete and submit the form:

✅ Step 1: Gather Required Information

You’ll need:

• Full legal name of the deceased

• Date and place of death

• Vehicle details (VIN, make, model, year, title number)

• List of heirs (with relationship and contact information)

• Signed, notarized affidavit of heirship

✅ Step 2: Fill Out the VTR-262 Form

Be clear and accurate—any false statements could result in legal penalties.

✅ Step 3: Have the Form Notarized

All signatures must be notarized before submission.

✅ Step 4: Submit the Form with Required Documents

Include:

• Death certificate (certified copy)

• Title application (Form 130-U)

• Proof of ID for the heir

• Any applicable fees for title transfer or registration

• Lien release, if there was a lien on the vehicle

Submit the completed documents to your local Texas county tax assessor-collector’s office.

What Happens After You Submit Form VTR 262?

Once the TxDMV processes your documents:

• The title is transferred to the heir listed on the affidavit

• You may be issued a new title in your name

• You’ll need to register the vehicle and pay any fees or taxes due

Processing times can vary, but many local offices offer same-day service if everything is in order.

What If Multiple Heirs Want the Vehicle?

If multiple heirs are entitled to inherit the vehicle under Texas intestacy laws, they must all agree on who should receive the vehicle. All heirs must:

• Be listed on the affidavit

• Sign off on the transfer

• Agree that only one heir will receive the title

If heirs can’t agree, the estate may need to go through probate—and VTR 262 won’t apply.

Why Work with The Lange Firm?

Even though VTR 262 seems simple, mistakes or misunderstandings can cause delays or disputes. At The Lange Firm, we help:

• Determine whether VTR-262 is the right option

• Resolve heirship disputes

• Guide you through Texas probate when necessary

• Handle affidavits, vehicle title transfers, and estate issues

📞 Contact us today to get help transferring a loved one’s vehicle quickly, legally, and with confidence.

Final Thoughts

So, what is Form VTR-262? It’s a valuable tool for transferring a vehicle when a loved one dies without a will and there’s no probate. But it’s only effective in the right situations—and with careful completion.

✅ If you’re unsure about your next steps, let The Lange Firm help you navigate vehicle transfers, probate alternatives, and the legal complexities of heirship in Texas.