How to Buy a Car in Another State

One big concern that many drivers bring to Music City Autoplex is how hard they believe buying a car out of state may be. Nervous about registration, taxes, and fees, and geography, along with the typical stress that goes with the normal car-buying process? You don’t have to worry because taking advantage of an incredible deal on a new-to-you vehicle that will enhance your commute across the state border is not that different from purchasing it in Madison. To help car buyers interested in buying a car in another state, the team at Music City Autoplex has a handy guide where you can learn a few quirks needed for a successful purchase.

Registering a Car Bought in Another State

When you drive home in a new-to-you car for sale in TN, the first thing you may be asking yourself is how to register that car in the state you’re from. Adding your license plate on a vehicle that was taken over state lines only requires a few documents and a trip to the DMV. 

1. Ask for a bill of sale that has the purchase price you paid listed clearly and find your local DMV on a website like DMV Near Me.
2. When you visit your local DMV, make sure to have the following 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

Let the DMV clerk know that you purchased the car out of state with the intent of titling and registering it at your address.

1. The clerk will most likely return your bill of sale, but they will keep your TN title, and ask that you pay the appropriate difference in sales tax between the two states. 
2. Keep your eye on your mailbox for a new title.

Taxes and Fees on Out-of-State Cars

Your local sales tax, the difference between TN and other states’ 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 of your car, truck, or SUV should you choose to purchase in TN. Don’t worry about having to pay hundreds of extra dollars, because the process is most likely the same as if you were registering a car from Franklin. 

Visit Music City Autoplex!

Whether you’re looking for a new-to-you used for sale in Madison, we’re proud to offer incredible deals. While you’re exploring our inventory for the vehicle that’s going to enhance your daily commute, be sure to contact our sales team with any questions about buying a car out of state, getting TN finance to make the purchase, or for details about getting approved for bad credit financing. We work to alleviate the stress of car-buying and help get you behind the wheel of the vehicle best suited for you.