Whether you’re getting yourself a brand-new automobile or a pre-owned one, buying a car is an exciting feeling. The thought of taking long drives by the beach and being able to attend events that finish late might have also crossed your mind.
If you bought your car from a private seller, you have a bit more work ahead of you. If you haven’t obtained a roadworthiness certificate from your local vehicle testing facility yet, you should make a plan to get this done. The certificate is only valid for 21 days. This document is to be handed in with the yellow Change of Ownership form which has been filled in by the previous owner.
These documents are to be handed in together to get the car registered in your name, along with your car’s Proof of Purchase, a copy of your ID, the car’s current registration certificate, a valid motor vehicle license disc, and the completed blue RLV application form for licensing a motor vehicle as well as the application fee. (Call beforehand to find out exactly how much, as it differs from one DLTC to the next.)
If you’ve bought your car from a dealership, they’ve hopefully taken care of most of the above. If not, you will know what to do by going back to point no 1. of this article. If everything is in order, by all means, open that bottle of champers and enjoy your new car – but not in that order, of course.
Whether you purchase it from a dealership or a private seller, buying a used car rather than a new one can potentially save you thousands of dollars. In general, purchasing a used car comes with different requirements, depending upon your state’s regulations and the vehicle’s age. Buying a used car can be a tradeoff: You may save money, but you may need to handle the paperwork yourself, especially if you’re buying from a private seller.
5 steps to take after buying a used car from a dealer
Shoppers may choose to buy a used car from a dealership to avoid the hassles of registering the vehicle, transferring title and completing additional paperwork. While the forms may vary by state, the dealer usually completes paperwork to transfer the title, register the vehicle and obtain a license plate or tags. If you finance your used car through the dealership, the dealer will prepare all necessary documents that reflect the amount you are borrowing, as well as the terms of the loan. Dealers are required to disclose whether a warranty exists or if the vehicle is being sold “as is.”
You should follow a handful of steps after buying a used car from a dealer.
1. Get car insurance
To best protect your property, you should have auto insurance in place before you drive away from the dealership. Car insurance protects you in the event you get into an accident. Except for New Hampshire, all states require drivers to carry auto insurance.
If you have an existing insurance policy, speak to your agent about the best time to add your used vehicle. You may have a grace period that covers your newly purchased used car for a brief period before you must add it to your policy. You may also be able to contact your insurer while you are still at the dealership to give your agent specific information about the used car you are purchasing.
Dealerships will not allow you to drive off the property unless you prove that the car is insured. If you don’t already have car insurance on another vehicle, you should take steps to get a policy in place before you buy a used car. It may also be possible to get car insurance through the dealer.
If you finance or lease a used vehicle, your lender may require you to take out higher limits on your auto insurance coverage than your state’s minimum requirements.
2. Secure your paperwork
Keep your car’s registration and proof of insurance in the glovebox. You should keep the title, bill of sale and financing paperwork inside your home.
3. Be on the lookout for your tags and registration
A dealer usually provides a temporary tag and registration when you buy a used car. You should receive the car’s registration and permanent tags in the mail. When these arrive, make sure you put the permanent tags on your vehicle, and put the registration in the glove box.
4. Search for recalls
Over time, automakers may recall vehicles to replace parts that could affect your safety. Car owners may receive a notice in the mail or learn of the recall online. If your vehicle is issued a recall, be sure to follow the instructions to get your car fixed as soon as possible.
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