Senate Bill No. 1365 amends various sections of the Government Code and Transportation Code related to vehicle registration, license plates, and inspection reports. Notably, it introduces new provisions that allow the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to refuse to issue or renew a motor vehicle registration, as well as to cancel, suspend, or revoke a registration under specific circumstances. The bill also establishes a 24-month vehicle registration period for certain passenger cars and light trucks, and it modifies the fees associated with dealer's temporary license plates, making the renewal free.

Additionally, the bill enhances the authority of the department to take action against unsafe vehicles by requiring notice to the vehicle owner before any registration action is taken, although it does not mandate a hearing. It also addresses fraudulent activities by dealers regarding license plates and vehicle inspection reports, allowing the department to deny access to the database of dealer-issued license plates if fraud is detected. The changes are set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 502.044, Transportation Code 502.048, Transportation Code 502.360 (Transportation Code 502)
Senate Committee Report: Transportation Code 502.044, Transportation Code 502.048, Transportation Code 502.360 (Transportation Code 502)
Engrossed: Transportation Code 502.044, Transportation Code 502.048, Transportation Code 502.360 (Transportation Code 502)
House Committee Report: Transportation Code 502.044, Transportation Code 502.048, Transportation Code 502.360 (Transportation Code 502)