Car Dealership Shopping: Bring the Right Documentation

The best way to improve your car buying experience is to make it as hassle-free as possible, and that means doing your homework and showing up to the dealership prepared. Have everything you need with you when you arrive at the dealership ready to buy, and the entire process will move more smoothly.

Identification

You will need identifying documentation to show the dealership you are who you say you are before you can sign paperwork and buy your car. A valid driver’s license with your name and photo and your social security card are sufficient; the license proves your identity and that you’re able to drive the car you are buying, while the social security card backs up the identification verification.

Also, you should have at least two pieces of official mail with your name and address on them to serve as proof of residence. Utility bills work great for proving you have and maintain a place of residence. That address will be added to your file with the dealership in case you need to be contacted.

Proof of Insurance

There are two ways to provide proof of car insurance to a dealership while you are buying a car. The first is by bringing in proof of an existing insurance policy in your name that can either be switched over to the new vehicle, or onto which the new vehicle can be added. Alternatively, if you do not currently have insurance in your name, you can contact your preferred insurer with the details of the car you are planning on purchasing before going to the dealership to finalize the purchase. As soon as the transaction is nearing completion, you can call that insurance company and pay for the policy. Proof of your brand new policy is then faxed to the dealership.

Proof of Income

You will need to bring proof of your income to the car dealership if you are financing the purchase with an in-house dealership loan. Proof of income can take the form of your most recent pay stubs, direct deposit records, or the previous year’s income tax returns. Dealerships use your income level as part of the financing application process to ensure you are capable of keeping up with the monthly car loan payments agreed to in the terms.

Call the Dealership

You should never assume you have everything you need to finalize the purchase of the car without asking the dealership directly. Even if you think you have everything, a short phone call prior to walking in can save you the headache of driving home and the back to buy your car. Call the dealership, ask what is required to finish the paperwork, and check all of your documents and materials before leaving the house.

As long as you are prepared, buying a car should be easy once you've done your homework and chosen the right vehicle. Have everything you need on hand before visiting the dealership with plans to drive away in your new car.

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