1. (a) A motor vehicle impounded under Section 601.294 remains impounded until the owner, operator, or person authorized by the owner presents to the person authorized to release the vehicle:

   1. (1) a certificate of release obtained from the department; and
   2. (2) payment for the cost of impoundment.
2. (b) On presentation of the items described by Subsection (a), the person authorized to release an impounded motor vehicle shall release the vehicle.

Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.