Yep. For a situation like that here in Texas you have to bring what paperwork you do have, bill of sale or what not, and apply for a bonded title. Having the previous owner not register the vehicle is dangerous and painful. There is at least one place in Texas that will take care of the legal end and paperwork for you for a price.
When I bought my car in 1989 the previous owner had the title and it was assigned to him, but he never registered it in his name. Unfortunately this is very common in this hobby. At the time I could use the DMV on base. The staff on base was quite helpful, they advised me to bring the guy with me. We registered the car in his name using my address and he signed paperwork giving me power of attorney on the car. After I recieved the new title I signed it over to myself and went through the registration process again.
