[G_Edmonds]

You don't have to have a MSO on a second hand unregistered kit in Texas as long as you have a bill of sale for the kit. Include all components that were included in the purchase(body/chassis, engine, rearend). If any major parts were purchased separately have the receipts for those too. They will run numbers to see if they come back stolen and probably assign a new vin. I went through the same thing a few years ago. Good luck with your build and welcome to the Cobra community.
-Greg