How to Buy a Car in Another State

We’ve received plenty of questions about buying a car out of state, but not every Toledo driver knows how to buy a car in another state. If you’re wondering, “Can I buy a car out of state?” The answer is, yes! At Exceptional Motorcar in Defiance, we can help with buying a car in another state. 

Buying a Car in Another State: Registration

One of the first things you need to know on how to buy a car in another state is the registration process. If you’re planning on buying a car out of state, you must register it in your home state. Our finance team recommends taking time to visit the Department of Motor Vehicles near Lima for a few documents then follow these next steps: 

1. Ask for a bill of sale that shows the purchase price you paid on it and locate the closest DMV on a website like DMV Near Me.
2. When you go to the DMV, take the following items with you:
1. Bill of sale
2. Proof of residency in the state where you live
3. Your completed vehicle transaction form
4. Title of your new vehicle signed by the previous owner
5. The Lienholders’ name and address if you have a loan on it
6. Filled out odometer disclosure 
7. Tax Form RUT-50 Private Party Vehicle Tax Transaction
8. Money to pay registration fees
9. Proof of insurance

Share with the DMV clerk that the used vehicle was purchased out of state and you need to title and register it in your home state: 

1. The clerk will likely return your bill of sale but keep your OH title.
2. The clerk will ask you to pay the difference in sales tax between the two states. 
3. Check your mailbox for your new title in a few weeks.

Taxes and Fees on Out-of-State Cars

Now that you know how to buy a car in another state, keep in mind that buying a car in another state usually leads to paying the difference in sales tax from your home state to the other states and processing fees. It’s typically around the same price you’ll pay for a registration on a new car in Findlay, so don’t be worried about a huge expense. 

Start the Car Buying Process with Exceptional Motorcar! 

Now that we’ve answered your question, “Can I buy a car out of state?” Contact us at Exceptional Motorcar to learn how to specifically buy a used car!