What are the steps for legally driving a car on the road after paying for it.?

Question

I just bought a car. I handed over the money now how do I get my vehicle registered to my name and legally drive it on the streets.

Answer 1

You should insure it, then register it , get a title and get plates for it.  Those who say all 50 states require auto insurance are wrong.   At least two USA states do not require auto insurance, New Hampshire and Wisconsin and there may be more

Answer 2

I would suggest going to a motor vehicle service in your state and get the car registered. Before you do that, get some insurance coverage to show collision and liability coverage. After you have showed proof of coverage you now then need to register the car and apply for a title showing you as the current owner if this said vehicle. Good luck and happy motoring.

Answer 3

First you need insurance on the car.  Call your car insurance company with the proper information to add it to your policy.  If you don't already have insurance on a car, you need to get it.  All states require car insurance. Some states charge property tax on vehicles, and that needs to be paid before you can register your vehicle.  Check with your state to see if they charge property tax.  Some states require an inspection before you can register the vehicle.  Again you need to check with your state about that one.   Once you have an insurance card, or verification of insurance and paid property tax and/or inspection if applicable, you can go to your local DMV or Notary (each state has different agents) with the title, proof of insurance, property tax inspection (if applicable) bill of sale and get your new title and registration.  Have someone else take you or drive a different car.  The vehicle you just bought is not legal to drive until the title has been transfered into your name and registered to you.    This is just general information and a guideline.  You need to check with your own state to see what they require.  The only definate thing, in any state is you can NOT drive the vehicle until it is registered in your name.  You did not say where you were from or where you purchased the vehcile. If you got it from a dealer, they should issue a temporary regisration that gives you time to get it registered in your name.  Some states a dealer has to do that for you, others you do it yourself.  Or if you purchased the vehicle from a different state than where you live, most states, you can go to a local DMV and get an out of state temporary registration so you can drive it to your state to register.  I hope this was helpful...good luck.