How to Buy a Car in Another State

Can I buy a car out of state? This might be one of the most frequently asked questions we received regarding pre-owned vehicles. Considering different registration and inspection laws, the curiosity from consumers regarding buying a car out of state should come as no surprise. 

Believe it or not, buying a car in another state is a simple process—assuming you follow a few key points before you make the trek to pickup your new ride. Keep reading to learn all you need to know about how to buy a car in another state. If you have additional questions about purchasing in other states as a resident of Ft Lauderdale or Orlando, our finance team can help with any inquiries. 

The Registration Process When Buying a Car Out of State

Can I buy a car out of state and register it in another? Absolutely. If you’re a Palm Beach driver considering buying a car in another state, the first thing you should look into are the differences in the registration process. If you want to learn how to buy a car in another state, the first step is ensuring the registration is linked to your home-state address. Use the following registration steps when buying a car in another state:

1. Be sure to secure a bill of sale with the purchase price printed. After you receive the proper paperwork, DMV near me can help you find the closest place to register your vehicle in your area. 
2. To avoid unnecessary return trips to the DMV, make sure you bring the following with you: 
   1. The bill of sale
   2. A filled-out application for vehicle transaction
   3. The vehicle title signed by the previous owner
   4. The lienholder or owner’s name and address
   5. Complete odometer disclosure for state title transfer
   6. Tax Form RUT-50 Private Party Vehicle Tax Transaction
   7. Payment for registration fees
   8. Proof of insurance
   9. Proof of residency 

Inform the DMV clerk that you purchased the vehicle out of state but intend to title and register it at your current address in your home state. You will receive the original bill of sale, but the clerk will keep the out-of-state title. After learning how to buy a car in another state, you’ll find that you must pay the difference in sales tax between the two states. The final step in learning how to buy a car in another state is waiting for your new copy in the mail! 

Can I Buy a Car In Another State With No Taxes or Fees? 

If you’ve been thinking about buying a car out of state because you’re looking to avoid sales tax, you might be slightly disappointed. When buying a car in another state, you’ll have to pay the difference in tax amounts when you title your car. Usually, the primary reason for learning how to buy a car in another state is because you’ve found a great deal on the vehicle you’ve been looking for. Even if you’re looking to save on DMV fees, you’re likely to see minimal cost difference. 

Visit William Lehman Van, Truck, and Bus Sales Today!

If you’re considering buying a car in another state, contact the team at William Lehman Van, Truck, and Bus Sales. We may be able to offer you a price match on the vehicle you’re interested in buying. You can easily apply for financing on our website using our secure portal, saving you time and money. Browse our new vehicle specials for maximum savings on cars, trucks, and SUVs in Hollywood!