How to Buy a Car in Another State
Illinois residents who have found the ideal vehicle in Missouri may be wondering how to buy a car in another state. It’s certainly a possibility, but with questions related to taxes, fees, registration, and vehicle transportation, the imagined hassle may make buying a car out of state feel like it’s not worth it. Luckily, buying a car in another state isn’t as complicated as it seems, especially when you use these easy tips from Green Light Auto Credit.
Registering a Car in Illinois Bought in Missouri
If you’ve found the ideal vehicle in Missouri but you live in Illinois, you’ll need to register your car in Illinois after your purchase. To add an Illinois licence plate after crossing state lines, you’ll need a few documents from the Illinois DMV. At the dealership, get a copy of your bill of sale with a clearly listed purchase price. When you visit your local DMV branch, bring the following documents:
- Bill of sale
- Completed application for vehicle transaction form
- Title of the vehicle signed by the previous owner
- Lienholders’ names and address
- Filled out odometer disclosure state for title transfer
- Tax Form RUT-50 Private Party Vehicle Tax Transaction
- Registration Fees
- Proof of insurance
- Proof of residency
Tell the DMV clerk that you purchased the car out of state with the intent of titling and registering it at your address. The clerk will return your bill of sale but keep your Missouri title. You’ll need to pay the difference in sales tax between Illinois and Missouri. Once complete, the DMV will mail you a new title.
Taxes and Fees on Out-of-State Cars
After buying a car out of state, there’s likely to be a difference in Illinois and Missouri sales tax. This fee, along with any DMV processing costs, should be the only extra expenses involved with buying a car in another state. The total should not be excessive, but it’s always a good idea to call ahead to get an exact estimate of what you can expect.
Work with Green Light Auto Credit for Auto Financing!
Can you buy a car out of state? With Green Light Auto Credit, it’s easy! Our friendly, knowledgeable team is here to help you buy a car out of state and answer all your car financing questions. Use our online credit application to get started, or contact us today!
