I have overseen the transfer of thousands of titles within dozens
of states over many years.

You need a PROPERLY executed title and/or transfer certificate,
from the previous owner, to obtain a new title in another state.
If you have that, you can obtain a Texas title.  

A bill of sale means nothing without a PROPERLY executed title
and/or transfer certificate.  Some states issue only the transfer
certificate and void the title.  If you do NOT have that title,
the vehicle technically BELONGS to the previous owner. Anybody
who tells you anything different does not know what they are
talking about.  

I suggest you contact you state police, provide them with the
VIN number to discover the name and address of the title holder
of record, for that vehicle.  You can then contact that person
about obtaining a PROPERLY executed title transfer to the state
of Texas.

I have a feeling you are going to find the vehicle listed as
stolen.

mike hunt

look up titles unlimited in Birmingham Alabama.they will supply you with a
title for around $200