What exactly must I do to get a car?

Question

I have yet to get my license, I'm not eligible to get it until the 23rd, but I want to know what exactly I'll have to do once I am able to get a car. If I buy from the owner, what expenses are there besides just the car? Also, what documents will I need and will I get? I mean, I don't know the first thing about it. Really, after I get my license, what is the process to getting a car?

Answer 1

In CA if you are buying from a private owner you will have to pay a transfer fee to get the car registered under you name. You will get from the previous owner the "pink slip" which you will take to the DMV to have the car transfered to your name. Also, if it is an older car it must pass a smog inspection, at least here in CA, i dont know about other states. Make sure the previous owner has the car smogged for you and it passes the smog check, otherwise if you buy the car and then go to smog it yourself and it does not pass the responsibility to fix the problems with the car falls on you. Smog checks here in CA are good for 90 days so if the previous owner says he already smogged it, ask him for the paperwork for the smog. Take that along with the pink slip to the DMV, pay your fee and your good to go. Oh one more thing, make sure that the tags (registration) are up to date when buying it from the previous owner, if there are back fees due for the tags then you will have to pay them before the car can be transferred to your name and this can add up.  And whatever you do, stay away from SALVAGED title cars.

Answer 2

You buy from the owner?

Are you at least 18???

If not, your parents would sure love to know what you are up to as you will get laughed at as you can not sign papers until 18.

Answer 3

1. Find a car

2. Pay for the car ($$)

3. Go to your insurance company and tell them you bought a car (More $$ depending on what it is and your age and such, but will be more than $1000 for the year guarenteed)

4. Go to the RMV and pay for the tax, title and registration on the car (in MA it's 5% sales tax on the purchase price or KBB price, $50 for the title fee and $30 for registration)

5. Get the car inspected (In MA it's $29)

6. Drive the car

Answer 4

It depends on where you live, in most places you DON'T need a license to buy a car. If you purchase from a private party, make sure you get a signed bill of sale and or the title to the car. You will have to pay taxes and registration to get license plates. If you puchase from a dealer, you can in some states, pay taxes and registration to the dealer. NADA.com or KBB.com can give you market value of any car you are considering to puchase. DONT PAY TOO MUCH. FYI, private sellers like CASH and are more likely to accept less money for the car if you have CASH$$$$$.

Answer 5

First of all, you need to have a relaible job. If you're buying from a dealership, new or used, then you need a job so you can make the payments. Also, if you're making payments, you have to be able to afford FULL COVERAGE INSURANCE.

Aside from money, you also need to buy insurance for the car you want BEFORE you buy the car, and have that proof of insurance with you when you go to buy the car. Driver's liscence is also needed to prove that you can drive, and possibly you need your parents with you if you're under 18.

Answer 6

Money?