How to Buy a Car in Another State

If you find yourself asking, “Can I buy a car out of state?” don’t worry. Buying a car out of state is actually very simple and isn’t that different from purchasing one in Evergreen. In this guide, Lee Motor Company will show you how to buy a car in another state, and if you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

How To Register a Car Bought in Another State

If you’ve bought a new car in AL and are ready to drive it home to Brewton, the first thing you’ll need to know is how to register that car in the state you’re from. Thankfully, even though you’re buying a car out of state, all you’ll need are a few documents and a trip to the DMV to get your license plate. Just read these steps and you’ll be one step closer to knowing how to buy a car in another state: 

1. Ask your dealer for a bill of sale. It must have the purchase price you paid listed clearly. Then, find your local DMV on a website like DMV Near Me.
2. Go to your local DMV and bring these items with you:
1. Bill of sale
2. Completed application for vehicle transaction form
3. Title of the vehicle signed by the previous owner
4. Lienholders’ names and address
5. Filled out odometer disclosure state for title transfer
6. Tax Form RUT-50 Private Party Vehicle Tax Transaction
7. Registration Fees
8. Proof of insurance
9. Proof of residency

1. Talk to the DMV clerk and inform them that you purchased the car out of state. Add that you did so with the intent of titling and registering it at your address.
2. Usually, the clerk will return your bill of sale. However, they will keep your AL title. Then, they’ll ask that you pay the appropriate difference in sales tax between the two states. 
3. Your new title will arrive in the mail.

Do you Have to Pay Taxes and Fees on Out-of-State Cars?

So now you know the answer to “Can I buy a car out of state?” But, now you may be asking, “Will buying a car out of state cost more?” The answer is, not really. Beyond the purchase price of your new car, truck, or SUV, you’ll only have to pay: 

• Your local sales tax
• the difference between AL and your state’s sales tax
• And any applicable processing fees at your DMV

The process is essentially the same as if you were registering a new car from Atmore, so there’s no need to worry about having to pay hundreds of extra dollars. 

Your Next Car is Waiting at Lee Motor Company!

Whether you’re looking for a new or used vehicle, you can find your next car at our dealership in Monroeville. Check out our new and used vehicle specials to see how you can save. We’re happy to make buying a car out of state as easy as possible! If you need a more in-depth answer to, “Can I buy a car out of state?” feel free to give our team a visit.