How to Purchase a Car Out of State
You've decided to finally buy that car, but it's located out of state. You are understandably concerned about protocol on how to obtain the title and get it registered in your home state. Fortunately, states have reciprocity rules that allow cars purchased out of state to be registered in your home state.
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Instructions
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Arrange for transportation to pick up the vehicle.
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Place a phone call to your insurance carrier to add the car to your policy.
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Check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the front left side of the windshield to ensure it matches the number on the title. Look at the title closely to ensure that it has been signed by the seller, and that there are no liens on the title. If necessary, get a notary public to sign (the title will specify if a notary is needed, most states do not require it).
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Receive a vehicle title and a receipt for the sale (after you've paid for the car). If you've purchased your vehicle from an out of state car lot, you will receive the title, a temporary license plate (usually good for a period of twenty days) and a bill of sale.
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Affix the temporary plate on the car, and put the bill of sale and new title in safe place.
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Make a trip to your nearest DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) once you've returned to your home state with the car. Be sure to bring your title, proof of insurance and bill of sale (if you have one) to the office with you. If you do not have a bill of sale, then bring the receipt you received from the seller. DMV will then transfer the title into your name, and you will receive a new title from your home state. At this time, you will be responsible for sales tax on the vehicle, as well as all registration fees.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not buy a car from an individual who offers to sell you his license plates, the car could be stolen. Have the title signed and notarized if necessary before taking it to your home state. Do not drive away with the car without it first being added to your insurance policy.
