How to Buy a Car Privately Out of State

Call your local DMV before purchasing out-of-state.

If you're looking for a hard-to-find vehicle or just a better price, it may benefit you to do your shopping outside of your state. Know your state laws before you do so.

Considerations

Before arranging for a purchase of an out-of-state vehicle, ask the owner of the vehicle to fax or email a scanned copy of the title so you can ensure it is free from liens or damage. Check with you local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) before you proceed--you may not be able to title a salvage title vehicle in your state without going through a long inspection process. Ask your DMV representative if your state offers a temporary plate so that you can legally pick up the vehicle to drive home. Otherwise, you'll have to arrange for transport.

Warning

Bring a mechanic with you before you complete your purchase. A private buyer can lie, and you would have no recourse. Depending on the distance away from your home, you may need to arrange for a mechanic local to the area to meet you during a convenient time for everyone. Find a local mechanic shop in the area by searching online--check any possibilities with the Better Business Bureau (BBB.org) before calling. Check prices before determining who to choose.

Payment

Discuss with the seller how he'd like payment. Whether it is cash or check, make your arrangements beforehand. Do not send a deposit for the vehicle. Leave a deposit for the the vehicle in person only after you or a mechanic have looked the vehicle over. Get a receipt and ensure that it states that the vehicle will not be sold within a specific time frame (as long as you need to come back and get it).

References

• The Unofficial DMV Guide: Buying a Car out of State