Documents To Bring When Buying A Car

What Documents Should I Bring With Me to Buy A Car?

Buying a car can be an exhaustive process, and bringing all the paperwork you need to the dealership isn't always at the top of everyone's priority list. The team at Haus Auto Group is here to make sure that when you purchase a used car for sale with us, your experience is as streamlined as possible. Our comprehensive list outlines which documents you need when purchasing a used car. As the home of the Haus Quick Deal, we know all about expediting your car buying process, and we're ready to help you make your next car purchase simple and successful.

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What To Bring to Buy a Car

If you're planning to purchase a car in the near future and have been wondering what you need to bring to the car dealership, our Canfield used car dealership is here to help. The car buying documents required include:

• Your driver's license
• Proof of income
• Proof of residence
• Proof of insurance
• Special offer information
• Payment method
• Title for trade in

Why Do I Need These Documents When Buying a Car?

Each of the required documents for purchasing a car serve a distinct purpose, helping the finance center at our car dealership to process your purchase as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Driver's License

You're required to show a valid driver's license so the dealer knows you can legally take a car for a test drive. Your license will also be used to confirm whatever method of payment you choose.

Proof of Income

Whether you're leasing or financing your car, you'll need to offer proof of income. A bank statement or the stub of a paycheck will suffice. The dealer will use this to verify your employment and to confirm that you can make monthly payments without issue.

Proof of Residence

You will need to provide a document with your current address in order to purchase a car. The most common way to show proof of residence is with a utility bill or your home's lease or mortgage agreement. This is to ensure that the bills will reach the correct address each month.

Proof of Insurance

Showing a valid auto insurance card proves to the dealer that your current car is insured and you are able to transfer it over to the new car. In some states, car owners can make the transfer from the old vehicle to the new one in the few weeks after the car is purchased with a temporary insurance card, and in others, you'll need to call the insurance provider while still at the dealership before driving off the lot.

If you're buying your first car, you can call the insurance company to set up a policy for you and ask them to fax the necessary paperwork to the dealership.

Payment Method

However you plan to pay for your next vehicle, it's important not to leave your wallet at home. Most dealerships will accept cash, credit or debit card, or check for your down payment. While some customers choose to pay outright for their next vehicle, most choose to secure a car loan to cover the majority of their vehicle purchase. Applying for financing in advance is an easy way to streamline the process of buying a car, as it allows you to review loan options before you arrive at the dealership.

Special Offer Details

If you're purchasing a vehicle that's a featured special offer or you're looking to take advantage of specific rebates offered by the dealership or the manufacturer, it's a good idea to have this information handy. Automotive specials tend to change quickly, so it's worth double-checking that the deal you're interested in is still valid and applies to the specific vehicle you're purchasing.

Title For Trade-In

If you're trading in your old car, you'll need the title from your current car. Without it, the process will be significantly slowed down since the dealer will need to contact the DMV. Canfield drivers looking to estimate their trade-in value can use our trade-in calculator to see how much money they can save on their next car. If you have documents like service history or repairs performed on your current vehicle, it's a good idea to bring those with you when you trade in your vehicle, as well.

Contact Our Canfield Used Car Dealership

If you have any questions about what documents are needed when buying a car, please contact us. The team at Haut Auto Group is always happy to help our customers make informed choices that simplify their financing process.

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FAQ About What Documents Are Required to Buy a Car

What do you need to get a car from a dealership?

In general, when buying a car, you should bring your driver's license, proof of income, proof of residence, your insurance card, and your payment information. If you're trading in your current vehicle, you should bring the vehicle title and any other documentation about the vehicle. When purchasing a vehicle that is included in special offers, it's a good idea to have the details about the discount or incentive on hand.

Do I need to bring my driver's license to the dealership if I'm not test driving a car?

Even if you're not test driving the vehicle you intend to purchase, the finance center will use your license to confirm your payment method. Your license is an important document when purchasing a new or used car because it helps confirm your identity for the dealer.

Why do I have to provide proof of income when buying a car?

Proof of income helps a dealership determine that you're eligible for the loan or lease you've applied for. It also helps ensure that the car you're purchasing is within your means, protecting you from overextending your budget.

How do I prove residency if I don't have a document with my current address on it?

If your name is not on the official documentation for your residence (for instance, if your partner's name is on the lease), you can use a bank statement or a utility bill in your name, as long as it includes your current address. In some circumstances, documents like school enrollment records, insurance records, and even medical bills can be used to confirm your address.

Does Ohio have a grace period for new car insurance?

If you're trading up to a different vehicle or adding a vehicle to an existing policy, you likely have several days to update your insurance policy to include your new vehicle. It's worth checking your insurance company before you arrive at the dealership to make sure the terms of your specific policy provide this flexibility. In many cases, it's relatively simple to update your insurance policy online, saving you the uncertainty about whether your new car is covered by your insurance.

Do I need to get pre-approved for financing before I buy a car?

Not necessarily. While getting pre-approved for auto financing in advance of your purchase will speed up your purchase process, plenty of our customers apply for financing at the dealership. We recommend applying for financing in advance, as it gives you more time to review your financing options at your leisure, but doing so in advance isn't required.

Is there any documentation that can help me get a discount?

Some dealerships participate in manufacturer incentives for specific types of customers, such as college graduates, military personnel, first-responders, and educators. Some dealerships also offer customer loyalty rebates and discounts for customers who are switching brands. If your dealership offers discounts like these, it's worth looking into the specific manufacturer program to see what sort of documentation is required, as these specifications change from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Is there anything I can bring to the dealership that will help me qualify for a stronger financing rate?

If you're concerned that your credit score is low, you may choose to co-sign an auto loan with someone who has a stronger credit rating. In some cases, a list of references of people who know you well and are willing to vouch for your creditworthiness may be helpful. If you've recently started a higher-paying job, be sure to include a paystub that reflects your new income.