National Eviction

How long does an eviction take in Texas?

For landlords and property managers · Updated September 2026

A typical uncontested eviction for unpaid rent in Texas takes about 3 to 4 weeks.

From our Texas guide: “An uncontested case can be finished in about three to four weeks”

The Texas eviction timeline, step by step

Calendar days for a nonpayment case the tenant does not contest. Business and court days are converted to calendar days.

  1. 1Notice for unpaid rent

    3 days

    From serving the notice until you can file.

    3-day notice to vacate (unless lease sets otherwise)

    From our guide: “The default under § 24.005 is at least three days' written notice before the suit is filed”

  2. 2Court case

    10 to 21 days

    From filing through service and the answer period or first hearing, to a judgment for possession.

    Trial set 10 to 21 days after filing

    From our guide: “not less than 10 days and not more than 21 days after the petition is filed”

  3. 3Judgment to possession

    6 to 7 days

    Any waiting period before the writ issues, plus the officer's notice before the lockout.

    Writ issues on 6th day after judgment; 24-hour notice before lockout

    From our guide: “No writ of possession may issue before the sixth day after the judgment for possession”

What can slow it down

  • Figures assume the statutory default notice period (3 days); a written lease can set a different notice period, and appeal to county court for a full trial de novo can extend the case well beyond the uncontested timeline.
  • A defective notice is the most common reason a case is dismissed and has to start over. Check the form and the delivery method in the full guide before you serve it.
  • A tenant who files an answer, raises a defense or appeals adds hearings and waiting periods. Busy urban dockets can add weeks at every stage.
  • Never change the locks or shut off utilities yourself. Self-help eviction is illegal in every state and can cost more than the unpaid rent.

Read the full Texas eviction guide, with the statute or rule behind each step.

Texas scores 9 of 10 on our landlord-friendly states map (landlord-leaning).

Compare eviction timelines in every state.

This timeline is general information for landlords, not legal advice. Deadlines change and courts vary by county. Confirm current rules with a licensed Texas attorney before acting.