What happens after you buy a used car: title, registration, plates and insurance

Before you drive away

• Insurance in place. Most states require it, and you should have it before the car leaves.
• A copy of every document you signed, the bill of sale, and the Buyers Guide if it came from a dealer.
• A way to drive legally: a temporary tag or marker from a dealer, or in a private sale, the transfer arrangements your state allows.

If you bought from a dealer

A dealer usually handles the title application and registration for you, and gives you a temporary tag valid for a limited time. Your job is to make sure it all happens before the temporary tag expires.

• Ask when the title application will be filed, and when your plate should arrive.
• Note the date the temporary tag expires, and put a reminder in your calendar.
• If the plate has not arrived with time to spare, call the dealer.
• Keep the paperwork together.

If you bought from a private seller

1. Make sure the seller signed the title exactly as your state requires, and that you have a bill of sale.
2. Take the signed title, the bill of sale, proof of insurance and your ID to your motor vehicle agency, within the time your state allows.
3. Pay the tax, title and registration fees.
4. Get your plates, and attach them to the car.

Taxes and fees

You typically pay sales or vehicle tax, a title fee and a registration fee. A dealer collects them at the sale; with a private sale, you pay when you register. Some states also require emissions or safety inspections before you can register. See what out-the-door price means.

Keep your records

• The title, once you receive it.
• The bill of sale and the contract.
• Maintenance records from now on.
• The Buyers Guide and any warranty or service contract papers.

Common questions