Menu

Menu

Location

Get Directions

310 East 20th Street, Chattanooga, TN, 37408

How to Buy a Car in Another State

Hands Holding Car and Money

One big concern with many Fort Payne, Alabama drivers is how to buy a car in another state. If you’re a little anxious about registration, fees, and taxes out of state, don’t worry. Mtn. View Chevrolet is here to help! Whether you’re in Chattanooga or Ooltewah, we can help you buy a car out of state. Read our handy guide below, and never again wonder, “Can I buy a car out of state?” Then, once you’re finished reading, contact us to take the next step!

Registering a Car Bought in Another State

When you buy a car in another state, you must register it in your state. Fortunately, it’s a pretty straightforward process and requires only a few documents and a trip to the Department of Motor Vehicles. Follow the steps below.

  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

Inform the DMV clerk that you purchased the vehicle out of state with the intent of titling and registering it in your home state.

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

Taxes and Fees on Out-of-State Cars

You don’t pay the Vehicle sales tax of the state you buy the car in, but the Vehicle sales tax of the state you’ll be registering the vehicle in.

Chat With the Finance Team at Mtn. View Chevrolet Today

Whether you’re looking to buy a new or used Chevy for sale near Athens, we’re proud of our incredible deals! We invite you to explore our inventory to find the right vehicle for your budget and lifestyle and complete a finance application. We specialize in no-hassle financing and can give you a value for your trade before you visit the dealership!

 

More from Mtn. View Chevrolet

  • Chevrolet 6.2L V8 Engine: Power, Performance, and Vehicles

    6.2L V8 Chevrolet Motor Guide Chevrolet’s 6.2L V8 engine has earned a reputation as one of the most powerful and reliable engines in the automotive world. Whether you’re looking for raw performance in a sports car or exceptional towing capacity in a truck, the 6.2L V8 stands out as a benchmark for power and efficiency….

  • 2024 vs 2025 Chevy Silverado 1500: Evolution of a Truck Legend

    The Chevy Silverado 1500 has built a strong reputation for being a reliable and powerful pickup truck that’s ideal for both work and leisure. As one of the top contenders in the full-size truck market, the Silverado has continually evolved to meet the demands of its drivers. In comparing the 2024 and 2025 models, we…

  • 0% APR Car Financing: How It Works and Who Qualifies

    0% APR In car financing, APR represents the annual cost of borrowing money, including interest and fees, expressed as a percentage. It influences how much you’ll pay over the life of a loan. The lower the APR, the less you’ll spend on interest. One of the most attractive financing options available is a 0% APR…

Mtn. View Chevrolet 35.02982, -85.30537.