If you are using TX point of entry

I know a lot of people come into TX w/o insurance and then buy when they arrive. I don't know if this will affect anybody or not. I am referring to the no insurance part.
http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/DriverLicense/drp.htm

DPS didn't implement this Driver Responsibility Program. The Legislature did that. DPS was chosen to administer the program.

Most people who don't know about the surcharges or the points on the driving records are ones who haven't been charged with anything in the first place. (DUI, Driving without insurance, etc.)

My question is, will you get fined if your registration is expired and then try to purchase when in state?

"A first offense for driving without insurance can result in a court fine of between $175 and $350. Subsequent offenses can result in court fines up to $1,000, license suspension, and impoundment of your vehicle. In addition, if you are convicted of driving without insurance, you will have to pay an annual surcharge of $250 to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in order to maintain your Texas drivers license. The surcharge remains in effect for three years, meaning a first offense could ultimately cost you more than $1,000."

http://www.tdi.state.tx.us/auto/younginsure.html

Easy solution, get SD plates and purchase your insurance before your trip to avoid problems, why gamble?

It looks like you will have too.