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How can I buy a car from a dealer far away?
I want to surprise my grandpa and buy him his dream car. I’ve been doing some research and found a dealer selling the exact car I am looking for! The dealership is out of state. How do I buy a car from out of state?
Phoebe Mah · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
What a lovely surprise! Your grandpa will be thrilled when he sees this car!
To buy a car from an out of state dealer, you’ll need to:
- Contact the dealership. Request pictures of the vehicle and find out more information. You’ll also want to let them know that you are out of state.
- Get a vehicle history report. Ask the dealership for the VIN or aCARFAX report. Finding out the vehicle’s history can give you a better idea of its condition.
- Figure out how to get the vehicle. Your options are going on a road trip, shipping the vehicle, or seeing if you have a friend or family member in the area that can drive the car back.
- Figure out financing. Since the car is out of state, you’ll need to figure out financing or a way to pay the dealership. You’ll also need the bill of sale to transport the vehicle. If you plan to drive the vehicle back yourself, you’ll need to see whether you need temporary registration.
- Register the vehicle. Once you arrive in your home state, you’ll need to register the car and obtain atitle. Provide the following documents:
- Inspection paper
- Paperwork regarding the sale
- Government-issued ID
- Proof of residency
- Proof of insurance
That said, how long you have to register the vehicle depends on your location. Most states request this step be done within 30 days and failure to meet this deadline will result in penalty fees.
Most dealerships require car insurance before you can drive off the lot. For an easy way to explore your car insurance options, use the
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- Gregory R.
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