What to Bring When Buying a Car: A Comprehensive Checklist
Buying a new or used car is an exciting experience, but it does require some preparation.
Having the right documents and items with you can make the process go much more smoothly, whether you’re buying from a dealership or a private seller. Here’s a handy checklist of what you’ll need.
Essential Items for All Car Buyers
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Driver’s License | Proof of identity and legal ability to drive |
| Proof of Income | Recent pay stubs, Utility bills, or bank statements for financing |
| Proof of Residence | Utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement |
| Proof of Insurance | Coverage for the new vehicle |
| Form of Payment | Cashier’s check, pre-approved loan check, or down payment |
| Trade-in Documents | Title, registration, Service Records, and loan information for current vehicle |
| Co-buyer Information | Driver’s licenses, proof of income, and residence for co-buyers |
| References for Financing | Additional documentation for limited or poor credit history |
No matter who you’re buying from or how you’re paying, make sure to bring:
- Your driver’s license or other valid government-issued photo ID
- Proof of car insurance (your current insurance card is usually sufficient)
- Your preferred form of payment:
- If paying with a check, bring a cashier’s check or personal check
- If paying with cash, bring the full amount in a secure form like a cashier’s check
- If financing, bring your down payment and information for your loan
Table of Contents
Relevant Articles to Read:
- How do you find out how much a dealer paid for a car?
- How Much Are Dealer Fees and How to Avoid Them
- How To Negotiate Used Car Price
- How Much Do Dealerships Make on New Cars
Additional Items When Buying from a Dealership
At a dealership, especially if you need financing, you may also need:
- Proof of income like recent pay stubs, W-2 forms, or tax returns if self-employed
- Proof of residence like recent utility bills in your name
- Information on your trade-in vehicle:
- Vehicle title in your name
- Current vehicle registration
- Any service records or maintenance history
The dealership will use these to verify your identity, determine financing terms, and assess your trade-in value. If you’re preapproved for a loan, bring those documents too.
Buying from a Private Seller
When buying from an individual, you’ll still need your license, insurance, and payment. But you’ll also want:
- A bill of sale document (the seller should provide this)
- The vehicle’s title signed by the seller
- Current emissions and inspection paperwork if required in your state
Paying in full with a cashier’s check or cash is simplest and safest when buying privately. If you need a loan, secure financing first before meeting the seller.
Tips for a Smooth Transaction
To make your car buying experience easier:
- Make copies of key documents so you have backups
- Call ahead to confirm what the seller or dealer needs from you
- If bringing cash, keep it secure and concealed until the moment of purchase
- Read all documents carefully before signing
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions if something is unclear
