How To Buy A Used Car From A Private Seller Out Of State
They will usually help you with all of the necessary paperwork.
How to buy a used car from a private seller out of state. Getting your title and registration in order is an easy process if you re buying your car from an out of state dealership. Generally when you re buying a car from an out of state dealership the dealer handles all title and registration paperwork for you. Avoid meetings at a private residence. Of course much of this paperwork will be temporary given you ll need to title and register the vehicle in your home state upon returning.
Each state has its own process but in general here s what you ll need. If you purchase a used car from a private seller you ll likely need to make a trip to the dmv to register the vehicle complete a title transfer and apply for new plates or a transfer. When you buy a car you also need to assume formal ownership of the car with your state s department of motor vehicles. The car s title tells you who owns the car.
The private seller should at minimum give you a signed title and bill of sale so that you can prove that you are the vehicle s rightful owner. Either way you re going to need to pay for a new title and registration for your vehicle sometimes as few as 30 days after you bring the car to your home state. In most instances you ll be issued temporary plates or a temporary permit to display while you wait for your official plates. If that isn t possible arrange to meet only during daylight hours.
Documentation for buying a car from a private seller. When purchasing a used car from a private seller it is advisable to meet in neutral public locations to inspect and test drive the vehicle and if the vehicle meets your requirements handle the purchase and transaction. Don t forget to get insurance in place before the car leaves the seller. Ask to see the title which should state clearly if there s a lien attached.
You can also get the vehicle identification number vin and call your local department of motor vehicles to find out if there are any outstanding liens. If you re buying the car out of state from a private party you may have to visit that state s department of motor vehicles to get temporary licensing before you register the vehicle in your home.