No, only the buyer needs to be there with the CLEAR TITLE. Be sure the seller is the person whose name is on the title.
It is better to ``sell'' the car for the minimum as the gift tax is higher...
Do Both Parties Have to be Present to Transfer a Car in Texas? If the seller or person gifting the car properly signed the title, they do not have to be present at the DMV to transfer the title. However, the person receiving the vehicle must present the Application for Texas Title in person at the DMV.
Title Transfer The original title assigned from the seller to the buyer. An Application for Texas Title (130-U) completed by buyer(s), buyer(s) signature must be original. Government issued photo ID for buyer. Proof of Texas liability insurance. Supporting documents for example: