How to Buy a Car in Another State

How to Register a Car Purchased in Another State

Registering your vehicle is an important step you need to complete once your purchase is finalized. We’re happy to share that registering a vehicle that was purchased over state lines only requires a few documents and a trip to the DMV. 

1. Ask for a bill of sale that lists the purchase price. If you do not know the location of your local DMV, you can find it on a website such as DMV Near Me.

1. Before you head to your local DMV, you will need to compile the following items:
   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

Note: Remember to notify the DMV clerk that you purchased the car in a different state and want to have it titled and registered at your address.

1. In most cases, the clerk will return your bill of sale but keep your title and ask that you pay the appropriate difference in sales tax between the two states. 
2. Your new title should arrive by mail shortly.  

Taxes and Fees on Out-of-State Cars

Are there any additional fees for purchasing a vehicle in a different state? Your local sales tax, the difference between the sales tax in SC and other state’s sales tax, and any applicable processing fees at your DMV are the only major payments that you will need to make beyond the purchase price. It typically is not much more expensive to purchase a vehicle in another state than it would be to buy one in your home state. 

Start Shopping in Conway

You do not need to be from around Columbia to enjoy the service and selection at Hadwin-White Subaru. Now that you know how to buy a car in another state, we encourage you to get in touch with us to make your dream car a reality. Be sure to take a look at our current specials as well for additional savings.