Things I need to do to own a used car??

Question

I'm buying a used car tomorrow and I wanted to know exactly what I need to do and have to own the vehicle and legally drive it in ny. What do i neeed to get from the previous owner to become the new owner? How do i register the car and do i register it before getting car insurance or after? Please any help is great cause this is my first time thanks

Answer 1

Buying a used car - you get into a catch 22.

You can't get insurance and title, until the car is yours.  But if you get the car first, it would be un-registered and you can't drive it home and you can't park it in public road.

The only solution is (after the check up and price negotiation) to have the seller drive the car to your house (with a drive way).  Finish the transaction at your house.  Drive the seller back home (in another car).

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When you buy the car, make sure you get a clear signed title, photo copy of the seller's driver's license, and a bill of sale (basically saying who is selling, to whom and for how much).

Now the car is in your possesion, you call up an insurance company to get an insurance (they will fax you on the spot).

Then you go to the DMV and pay tax and get your title, registration.

Good Luck...

P.S.  don't take any sob stories about missing title-

the title is in my old house,

I'll send you the title in the mail,

etc., etc., etc.,

NO TITLE = NO OWNERSHIP = no transfer of ownership.

Answer 2

Good response above.  I would add that sometimes the seller will let you drive the car home and trust you to mail the tags back to him/her (or bring them back when you are able).  It never hurts to ask about it.  That could save you some hassle.