What You Need to Know About Buying a Used Car in Another State

Finding the perfect car is an awesome feeling. But what happens if you’ve found that perfect car for sale in another state? Does it affect the buying process? What about potential differences in taxes or titles? What do you need to do before committing to buy a car from across the state line? Thompson Sales can help. We don’t just sell and service new and used cars, we also offer helpful advice. In today’s blog, we’re going to go over a few details to remember if you’re buying a car from out of state.

What should I do before traveling to an out-of-state car dealer?

Firstly, buying a car out-of-state is probably going to be more complicated than you think. If you’re shopping for cars on whatever dealership website or listing you happen to find, you should rethink things. Buying in your own state makes things a lot easier. However, if you’ve found what you think is the perfect car in another state, and none of the in-state car dealerships have what you’re looking for, then be sure to do your research first.

How do I buy a car in another state?

Unless you live in a smaller state, or right on the state line, you’re probably going to have to travel a bit to get to wherever the car is being sold. If you’re determined to buy from another state, it’s best to decide on the car first. Find out everything you can about the car and contact the seller to confirm your commitment to buying it. Otherwise, you may find yourself driving for hours only to find that it needs repairs or even that it’s already been sold. 

Try to get everything in writing and get all the paperwork squared away before you go. This includes requesting full documentation for the vehicle you’re buying, including vehicle history reports, crash reports, insurance, ownership paperwork, and other required documents.

What state’s vehicle registration laws do I use when buying one in another state?

Speaking of paperwork, this is where things can potentially get really complicated. Most states have their own specific requirements when it comes to licensing, registration, and various other types of documentation pertaining to vehicle ownership. Not only that, but deadlines for the submission of certain items can also vary state-by-state.

If you’re buying from across state lines, you need to research the finer details about registration in both states before you buy. Your best bet is to contact your local DMV for a full list of requirements. Remember that requirements aren’t just limited to paperwork. Emissions and pollution regulations are different in a number of states, so you’ll have to make sure the car you’re buying doesn’t violate any additional rules. 

Is it worth buying a vehicle in another state?

Ultimately, you’re better off buying a car from the state you live in. That’s not to say that buying a car from a neighboring state is totally impossible, but for most people, it simply isn’t worth the extra effort.

Where can I purchase a new car in Springfield, Missouri?

If you live in Springfield, Missouri or the surrounding area, you don’t really need to go out of state to find the perfect car — you’ll find it at Thompson Sales. Whether you’re looking for a Buick, Cadillac, or GMC, we can help. We offer both new and used vehicles and our team can make sure you find a car, truck, or SUV that fits your needs perfectly. Visit our car dealership in Springfield, MO today.