Texas Dealership Website Legal Requirements

Dealership websites operating in or collecting data from residents of Texas must comply with both general privacy laws and state-specific consumer protection and automotive regulations. Texas has enacted the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA).

Below is an example of Texas Dealership Privacy Policy (Annotated: Please note that all annotations will be removed in the live dealer version, 2026 Compliant).

[Dealership Legal Name] Privacy Policy

Effective Date: [Insert Effective Date]

[ANNOTATION: Insert your dealership’s legal name]

[Dealership Legal Name] (“Dealership,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) respects your privacy and is committed to protecting the personal information of our customers and website visitors. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard personal information in compliance with:

• Federal law: Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA), FTC Safeguards Rule, Truth in Lending Act
• Texas law: Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA)
• Dealer regulations: Texas Occupations Code Chapter 2301

[ANNOTATION: This section clarifies legal compliance scope and is required for transparency]

GLBA Financial Privacy Notice

What does [Dealership Name] do with your personal information?

Why?

Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing.

What Information Do We Collect?

The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This may include:

• Social Security number
• Income
• Credit history
• Credit scores
• Employment information
• Vehicle purchase history

How Do We Use Your Information?

All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. We share information to:

• Process financing applications
• Verify creditworthiness
• Prevent fraud
• Service accounts

How We Protect Your Information?

We restrict access to personal information to employees who need it to perform their job functions.

We maintain physical, electronic, and procedural safeguards that comply with federal regulations.

Questions?

Call: [Phone Number]
Email: [Privacy Email]

[ANNOTATION: GLBA Safeguards Rule and Truth in Lending Act disclosure]

Dealership websites operating in or serving residents of Texas must comply with general consumer protection laws as well as state-specific automotive regulations. This includes proper disclosure of website rules, user responsibilities, and legal protections for your dealership. Texas dealerships must also follow requirements enforced by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles regarding advertising, licensing, and fee transparency.

Below is an example of a Texas Dealership Terms of Use (Annotated: Please note that all annotations will be removed in the live dealer version, 2026 Compliant).

[Dealership Legal Name] Terms of Use

Effective Date: [Insert Effective Date]

[ANNOTATION: Insert your dealership’s legal name]

[Dealership Legal Name] (“Dealership,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) provides this website for informational, commercial, and marketing purposes. By accessing or using this website, you agree to these Terms of Use.

[ANNOTATION: Introductory language required for legal clarity and enforceability.]

Texas Dealership Advertising Disclaimer

All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, title and registration fees, finance charges, dealer document preparation fees, and emission testing charges, where applicable. Prices may include manufacturer rebates and incentives, which may vary based on eligibility requirements such as residency, financing, or trade-in qualifications.

[ANNOTATION: Required to clearly disclose additional costs and conditional rebates under rules enforced by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.]

Vehicle availability, pricing, specifications, and features are subject to change without notice. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, errors or omissions may occur. Please contact the dealership to verify all information.

This website and its contents are intended for informational purposes only and do not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy any vehicle. All offers are subject to prior sale and may not be available at the time of inquiry.

The dealership is licensed and regulated by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and complies with applicable advertising and consumer protection laws of the State of Texas.

[ANNOTATION: Reinforces dealer legitimacy and compliance with Texas regulatory oversight.]

Financing Disclaimer

All financing is subject to credit approval. Terms may vary based on creditworthiness, down payment, and lender approval. Advertised monthly payments, if any, are estimates only and may not include taxes, fees, or additional costs.

Texas Dealer Documentary Fee Disclosure

Texas law allows motor vehicle dealers to charge a documentary fee to process documents related to the sale of a vehicle.

The documentary fee charged by this dealership is $[Insert Amount].

The documentary fee is not an official fee and is not required by law, but is charged to recover costs associated with processing vehicle sale documents.

[ANNOTATION: FTC and Texas Occupations Code Chapter 2301 Disclosure]

SMS / Text Marketing Consent Policy

By providing your mobile phone number through our website, you consent to receive text messages from [Dealership Name] .

These messages may include:

• Appointment reminders
• Service notifications
• Marketing offers
• Customer service responses

Message frequency may vary.

Standard message and data rates may apply.

You may opt out of receiving text messages at any time by replying:

• STOP

For assistance, reply:

• HELP

Your mobile number will not be shared with third parties for marketing purposes without consent.

Questions?

Call: [Phone Number]
Email: [Privacy Email]

[ANNOTATION: FTC Disclosure ]

Texas Dealership Cookie Policy (Annotated, 2026 Compliant)

1. Introduction

This Cookie Policy explains how [Dealership Name] (“we,” “our,” or “us”) uses cookies and similar tracking technologies on our website.

[ANNOTATION: Required to provide transparency about tracking technologies under state privacy laws such as the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA).]

2. What Are Cookies

Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit a website that help improve functionality, analyze usage, and support marketing efforts.

[ANNOTATION: Provides basic disclosure of tracking technology as required under general consumer transparency standards enforced by the Federal Trade Commission.]

3. Types of Cookies We Use

We may use the following types of cookies:

• a. Strictly Necessary Cookies These cookies are required for website functionality (e.g., inventory browsing, financing forms). [Legal Note]: Generally exempt from consent requirements if not used for tracking/advertising.
• b. Analytics Cookies These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our site (e.g., page visits, time on site).
• c. Advertising / Targeting Cookies These cookies track browsing behavior to deliver personalized ads (e.g., vehicle offers).
• d. Third-Party Cookies We may allow third parties (e.g., ad networks, CRM tools) to place cookies.

[ANNOTATION: Required to disclose categories of collected data and purposes under the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA).]

4. Consent and Your Choices

Cookie Consent Banner

When you first visit our site, you will be presented with a cookie banner allowing you to accept or manage cookies.

Opt-Out Rights

You may:

• Opt out of targeted advertising
• Opt out of the sale of personal data
• Use browser signals (e.g., Global Privacy Control)

[ANNOTATION: ust provide opt-out mechanisms and honor universal opt-out signals under the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA).]

5. Personal Data Collected via Cookies

We may collect:

• IP address
• Device identifiers
• Browsing behavior
• Location data (if enabled)

[ANNOTATION: Must disclose categories of personal data collected and purposes under the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA).]

6. How We Use Cookie Data

We use cookie data to:

• Operate and improve our website
• Analyze performance
• Provide personalized vehicle offers
• Comply with legal obligations

[ANNOTATION: Data must be limited to what is necessary for disclosed purposes under the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA).]

7. Sale or Sharing of Data

We may share cookie-derived data with advertising partners.

[ANNOTATION: Must disclose if personal data is sold or used for targeted advertising purposes, If selling sensitive data, must include explicit notice (“We may sell your sensitive personal data.”) under the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA).]

8. Consumer Rights (Texas Residents)

Under Texas law, you have the right to:

• Access your personal data
• Correct inaccuracies
• Delete your data
• Obtain a copy of your data
• Opt out of targeted advertising or sale

[ANNOTATION: Enumerated consumer rights under the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA).]

9. How to Exercise Your Rights

You may submit requests by:

• Email: [privacy email address]
• Phone:[phone number]
• Online Form: [URL link if available]
• Obtain a copy of your data
• Opt out of targeted advertising or sale

[ANNOTATION: Must provide at least one (often two) methods for submitting requests under the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA).]

10. Data Retention

We retain cookie data only as long as necessary for the purposes described.

[ANNOTATION: Requires data minimization and purpose limitation under the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA).]

11. Data Security

We implement reasonable safeguards to protect your data.

[ANNOTATION: Requires reasonable data security practices under the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (TDPSA). Failure to secure data can be considered an unfair practice under FTC]

12. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Cookie Policy periodically.

[ANNOTATION: Material changes must not be misleading and may require notice under the FTC]

13. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Cookie Policy, contact:

Do Not Sell My Personal Information – Car Dealership Statement

Effective Date: [Insert Date]

[Dealership Name] (“we,” “us,” or “our”) is committed to protecting the privacy of our customers. Under applicable federal and Texas state law, including the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and the Texas Business & Commerce Code, you have the right to opt out of the sale of your personal information.

1. Personal Information We May Collect

We may collect personal information including, but not limited to:

• Name, contact information, and identification details
• Vehicle purchase or lease information
• Financial information for financing or insurance purposes
• Browsing or online activity on our website

2. Your Right to Opt-Out

You have the right to direct us not to sell your personal information. We do not discriminate against you for exercising this right.

To exercise this right:

• Online: Visit [Insert URL]
• By Phone: Call us at [Insert Phone Number]
• By Email: Email us at [Insert Email Address]
• By Mail: Send a request to [Insert Physical Address]

Once your request is received and verified, we will honor your request as required by law.

3. Sale of Personal Information

We do not sell personal information of customers under 16 years old without affirmative authorization. For other individuals, we may share information with trusted service providers as permitted by law.

4. Verification Process

To protect your privacy, we may need to verify your identity before fulfilling your request. Verification may include providing personal details or confirming information in our records.

5. Contact Us

For any questions or concerns regarding this statement or our privacy practices, please contact:

• [Dealership Legal Name] [Street Address] [City, Texas ZIP]
• Phone: [Insert Phone]
• Email:[Insert Privacy Email]

[ANNOTATION: Providing contact information satisfies GLBA privacy notice requirements and aligns with Texas §521.052 notice rules. CCPA §1798.130(a) requires a method for consumers to submit inquiries about their personal information.]

Accessibility Statement

[Dealership Name] is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for people with disabilities. We are continually improving the user experience and applying relevant accessibility standards to make our website usable for all visitors.

Measures to Support Accessibility

We aim to meet or exceed the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA, which includes the following actions:

• Using clear and simple language throughout the site.
• Providing alternative text for images, videos, and graphics.
• Ensuring that all website functionality is available via keyboard navigation.
• Maintaining high color contrast for readability.
• Designing forms and interactive elements that are accessible and easy to use.
• Regularly testing our website for accessibility and usability issues.

Limitations

While we strive for full accessibility, some third-party content or certain interactive features may not yet be fully accessible. We continuously work to update these elements to ensure compliance.

Feedback

Your feedback is important to us. If you encounter accessibility barriers, please contact us:

• Phone: [Insert Phone Number]
• Email: [Insert Email Address]
• Mailing Address: [Insert Physical Address]

We will respond to accessibility requests promptly, and we welcome suggestions for improving accessibility.

Tools & Resources

To enhance accessibility, we recommend using assistive technologies such as screen readers, keyboard navigation, or voice commands. For more information about web accessibility, visit the W3C Web Accessibility Initiative.

[ANNOTATION: Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Title III – Requires public accommodations, including businesses like car dealerships, to ensure their services, including websites, are accessible.]

Credit Evaluation Disclosure

When you choose to submit a credit application through this website, [Dealership Name] may submit your information to one or more third-party lenders or financial institutions to evaluate your eligibility for financing.

As part of that process, those lenders may obtain your consumer credit report in accordance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

[ANNOTATION: The FCRA requires a permissible purpose and consumer authorization before pulling a credit report (15 U.S.C. § 1681b). While not required to be posted as a notice, this disclosure supports compliance and transparency.]

Buy Here Pay Here (BHPH) Financing Notice

In some cases, [Dealership Name] may offer financing directly as a Buy Here Pay Here (BHPH) dealer. This means:

• Financing may be provided directly by the dealership instead of a third-party lender
• Payment terms, interest rates, and approval criteria may differ from traditional lenders
• Credit approval may be based on additional factors such as income, residence, and ability to repay

If BHPH financing is offered:

• The dealership may still obtain your credit report under the Fair Credit Reporting Act
• Your payment history may or may not be reported to consumer reporting agencies

Please contact the dealership directly for details regarding BHPH program terms, payment schedules, and credit reporting practices.

[ANNOTATION: FCRA governs credit report access and reporting obligations. The Truth in Lending Act requires disclosure of financing terms (APR, payments, etc.) before consummation of the contract. Texas law requires clear retail installment contract disclosures under the Texas Finance Code Chapter 348.]

Credit Inquiry Impact

A credit check performed after submission of a full application may constitute a hard inquiry , which can affect your credit score.

Prequalification tools, when available, may use a soft inquiry that does not impact your score.

[ANNOTATION: Falls under FCRA transparency principles and FTC guidance on fair and non-deceptive practices. Helps avoid deceptive practices under the Federal Trade Commission Act (UDAAP risk)]

No Guarantee of Financing

Submission of a credit application does not guarantee approval, specific terms, or interest rates.

All financing decisions are made solely by the participating lenders based on their underwriting criteria.

[ANNOTATION: Required to prevent misleading advertising under the Federal Trade Commission Act. Also relevant to auto advertising enforcement policies by the Federal Trade Commission.]

Equal Opportunity Statement

We comply with the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and do not discriminate against applicants on any prohibited basis, including race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, or receipt of public assistance.

[ANNOTATION: ECOA (15 U.S.C. § 1691) prohibits discrimination in credit transactions.Regulation B requires creditors to provide certain notices (e.g., adverse action). Including this statement demonstrates compliance and reduces regulatory risk.]

Third-Party Lenders

[Dealership Name] is not a direct lender unless otherwise stated. We act as an intermediary by submitting your application to independent financial institutions.

[ANNOTATION: Required to avoid deceptive practices under the Federal Trade Commission Act. Clarifies role of dealership vs. lender (important in enforcement actions)]

Texas Notice

For residents of Texas:

• Credit reports are obtained only with your authorization at the time of application submission
• All credit activities are conducted in compliance with applicable federal and state laws

[ANNOTATION: Texas follows federal FCRA requirements for credit authorization. Installment sales governed by Texas Finance Code Chapter 348. Enforcement authority includes the Texas Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner]

Information Accuracy

You are responsible for providing accurate and complete information when submitting an application.

Incomplete or inaccurate information may affect your ability to obtain financing.

[ANNOTATION: Supports fraud prevention and underwriting compliance. Helps mitigate liability under general contract law and fraud statutes. Indirectly tied to FCRA data accuracy framework]

Contact Information

If you have questions regarding this notice or the credit application process, please contact:

Texas Motor Vehicle Inventory Tax Disclosure

This notice is provided for informational purposes only and does not require acknowledgment or submission.

Inventory Tax Statement Disclosure

Motor vehicles sold by [Dealership Name] in the state of Texas may be subject to a motor vehicle inventory tax assessed on the dealership.

In certain transactions, a separate charge may be included on your purchase documents identified as an “Inventory Tax,” “Dealer Inventory Tax,” or similar designation.

This charge:

• Is not a government fee paid directly by the consumer to a taxing authority
• Is a cost incurred by the dealership as part of maintaining vehicle inventory
• May be passed on to the customer as permitted by law and applicable regulations

Retail Installment Contract Disclosure

If you finance your vehicle purchase, any applicable inventory tax or similar fee will be disclosed in your retail installment contract or buyer’s order.

[ANNOTATION: Required disclosures in motor vehicle sales contracts are governed by the Texas Finance Code Chapter 348. Finance charge and fee disclosures must also comply with the Truth in Lending Act.]

Nature of Inventory Tax

The motor vehicle inventory tax is imposed on dealers under Texas law based on the value of inventory held for sale.

[ANNOTATION: Governed by the Texas Tax Code Section 23.121. Requires dealers to file periodic inventory declarations and remit taxes to local taxing authorities.]

No Misrepresentation of Fees

Any inventory tax-related charge listed in your transaction documents is disclosed for transparency and compliance and is not intended to misrepresent a government-imposed fee on the consumer.

[ANNOTATION: Prohibited deceptive practices under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act. Also governed by the Federal Trade Commission Act, which prohibits unfair or deceptive acts or practices.]

Not a Required Government Fee to Buyer

The inventory tax is a tax obligation of the dealership and is not required to be paid directly by the buyer to the state or county.

Texas Compliance Notice

All fees and charges related to your vehicle purchase will be clearly disclosed prior to contract execution in accordance with applicable laws of the state of Texas.

[ANNOTATION: Prohibits: Misleading fees and Misrepresenting dealer charges as government fees. Many enforcement actions in Texas have involved improper labeling of “inventory tax” as a government fee. Truth in Lending Act requires accurate disclosure of all finance charges. Federal Trade Commission Act prohibits deceptive or unfair business practices and the FTC has taken action against dealers for hidden or misleading fees.]