Insurance Laws: Moving To Texas, What Changes?

If you're moving to Texas, it's important to understand how insurance laws differ from your previous state. Texas has specific requirements for auto insurance, with drivers needing a minimum amount of liability coverage to pay for repairs and medical expenses in the event of an accident. This includes at least $30,000 of coverage for injuries per person, up to a total of $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Additionally, you'll need to register your vehicle in Texas within 30 days of your move. Health insurance is another important consideration when moving to Texas. You may need to obtain a new plan, especially if your previous coverage was out-of-state. Texas also offers state-provided health insurance options that you can explore. It's recommended to review the requirements for insurance and vehicle registration on the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles website.

Texas auto insurance laws

Texas has a "fault" system when it comes to liability for car accidents. This means that drivers are required to "pay for the accidents they cause". In most cases, it is the at-fault driver's insurance company that pays for accident-related injuries and other losses.

Texas law requires drivers to show proof that they can pay for any accidents they may cause. Most drivers do this by buying auto liability insurance. Liability insurance pays to repair or replace the other driver's car or other damaged property, and it pays the other person's medical expenses when the policyholder is at fault in an accident. The minimum liability coverage required by Texas law is $30,000 for injuries per person, up to a total of $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. This is known as 30/60/25 coverage.

However, these minimums may not be enough to cover all expenses in the event of a serious accident. Texas auto insurance companies recommend drivers purchase a minimum of $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident of bodily injury coverage, as well as at least $50,000 of property damage coverage.

In addition to liability coverage, Texas law requires insurance companies to offer uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which can provide additional protection if you are in an accident with someone who has no insurance or whose insurance limits are too low to cover your expenses. You can reject this coverage in writing, but doing so may leave you with many out-of-pocket expenses in the event of an accident.

When moving to Texas, you have 30 days to register your vehicle in the state. You can drive with a valid, unexpired driver's license from another state for up to 90 days.

Health insurance changes

If you're moving to Texas, it's important to understand how your health insurance might work differently in your new state. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

• Notify your current health insurance company or agent about your move to Texas: You will likely need a new policy with different coverages. Your insurance provider can guide you on the specific changes and options available to you.
• Explore your new state's health insurance options: Texas will have its own regulations and offerings when it comes to health insurance. You can start by checking the Texas government website to explore state-provided health insurance options and learn about any requirements for re-applying for benefits.
• Understand Special Enrollment Periods: Moving to a new state typically triggers a special enrollment period for health insurance, provided you had coverage before your move. This allows you to select a new plan in your new state.
• Consider the costs: Premiums can vary based on factors such as age, location, and tobacco use. Your rates will most likely change with a Texas policy, so it's important to review the coverages you may need and ask about any available discounts.
• Review your new employer's health benefits: If you're changing jobs, ask your new employer if they offer healthcare coverage for you and your family. They may pay some or all of the premium costs.
• Select a new primary care doctor: If you're keeping your existing health plan and it requires you to use a primary care doctor, you will need to choose a new one in Texas.
• Locate in-network healthcare providers: Identify the closest urgent care facilities and hospitals within your new insurance network so you know where to go in case of an emergency.
• Understand the timeline for enrollment: In most cases, the earliest available effective date for new coverage will be the first day of the month after you move. You usually have 60 days from your move to enroll in a new health insurance plan.
• Consider short-term insurance options: If you're concerned about a potential gap in coverage during your move, you may want to look into short-term health insurance plans. These plans are not regulated by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) but can provide temporary coverage until your new plan takes effect.

Vehicle registration

When moving to Texas, you have 30 days to register your vehicle. Here is a step-by-step guide to registering your vehicle in Texas:

Vehicle Inspection:

First, take your vehicle to a certified Vehicle Inspection Station in Texas and obtain a passing inspection. Texas-registered vehicles must undergo an annual inspection to ensure compliance with safety standards. Remember to bring your insurance card, as proof of insurance is required at the inspection.

Insurance Coverage:

Texas has specific insurance requirements for drivers. The minimum coverage per person is $30,000 for injuries, with a total of $60,000 for everyone injured in an accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Make sure you meet these requirements and have your insurance card as proof of coverage.

Registration and License Plates:

To obtain Texas license plates and a registration sticker, visit your local county Tax Assessor-Collector office. You will need the following documents:

• Insurance card
• Vehicle Inspection Report from the inspection station
• Proof of vehicle ownership, such as registration or title from your previous state, or a foreign/military ownership document

• Registration Fees:
• Online or In-Person Registration:

You can renew your vehicle registration online up to 90 days before the expiration date or up to a year after, provided you haven't received a citation for an expired registration. Online renewal offers a $1 discount. Alternatively, you can renew by mail or in person at your county Tax Assessor-Collector office or an approved substation.

Sticker Status and Replacement:

You can track the status of your registration sticker online. If you need a replacement license plate or sticker, you can request one through the TxDMV website.

Address Updates:

Remember to update your address on your vehicle registration if you move within Texas. Failure to renew your registration is against the law and may result in a fine.

Driver's license

Texas requires drivers to have a minimum amount of liability coverage. This means that your insurance will pay to repair the other driver's car if you caused an accident. You will need to obtain a new driver's license when moving to Texas, as you can only drive with an out-of-state license for 90 days. The Texas Department of Public Safety issues driver's licenses that are valid for up to eight years to Texas residents aged 18 and older.

There are several options for obtaining a Texas driver's license: online, by telephone, by mail, or in person at your local driver's license office. Same-day appointments may be available at select offices. To obtain a license in Texas, you must provide a valid form of identification, such as a passport, and proof of residence. You will also need to pay a fee, which varies depending on the type of license and can be found on the Texas Department of Public Safety website.

It is important to note that you may not hold both a driver's license and an identification card in Texas. If you do not intend to drive, you can apply for a Texas identification card, which is valid for up to six years.

When moving to Texas, it is recommended that you inform your insurance company or agent, as you will likely need a new policy with different coverages. You can either continue with your current insurance provider if they serve Texas or switch to a new provider. Shopping around for quotes from different companies, including small, independent insurance companies that operate solely in Texas, can help you find the best rates and coverage for your needs.

Voter registration

To vote in Texas, you must be registered. There are several ways to register to vote:

• In-person: Visit your county's Voter Registrar office.
• By mail: Pick up a voter registration application from your county's Voter Registrar office, public libraries, government offices, or high schools. Then, fill it out, print it, sign it, and mail it to your county's Voter Registrar office at least 30 days before the election.
• Online: Fill out your voter registration application through the online portal on Texas.gov. Then, print it, sign it, and mail it to your county's Voter Registrar office.
• When renewing your Driver's License: If you have an existing Texas Driver's License or state identification card, you can register to vote online when renewing, replacing, or changing your contact information for either of these cards through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

To be eligible to vote in Texas, you must be:

• A resident of the county where you submit the application.
• 18 years old or older on Election Day.
• Not a convicted felon (you may be eligible to vote if you completed your sentence, probation, or parole).
• Not declared by a court to be totally or partially mentally incapacitated without the right to vote.

Frequently asked questions