A driver’s license isn’t required to buy a car, although having one can make the transaction smoother. Situations vary, but you’ll likely need valid government-issued identification and proof of residence at some point during the process. And remember, only a licensed and insured driver can legally drive your new ride.
Keep reading to learn about shopping for and buying a car without a license.
- Who Would Buy a Car Without a License?
- Can I Buy a Car Without a License?
- Can You Get Car Insurance Without a License?
- Can You Register a Car Without a License?
- Read Related Articles:
Who Would Buy a Car Without a License?
Buying a car without a license is uncommon, but there are some exceptions:
- Shopper with a learner’s permit or temporary driver’s license
- Unlicensed grandparent or other family member buying a vehicle as a gift
- Automobile collector who doesn’t drive
- Non-driver who uses a chauffeur, caregiver, or someone else to drive the car.
- Business owner who doesn’t get behind the wheel of the company fleet
Can I Buy a Car Without a License?
We advise test-driving cars before buying one. However, you might only be able to kick tires without a license because some dealers will ask for your ID before taking the vehicle off their lot for a drive around the block.
Potential lenders will ask for your driver’s license when you apply for an auto loan. Typically, a state ID is sufficient for the bank’s purpose. It cares more about who is repaying the loan and less about who is driving the vehicle.
RELATED: How Much Money Should You Put Down on a Car?
Can You Get Car Insurance Without a License?
That leads us to auto insurance. The lender will require insurance coverage on the vehicle before approving the loan. Also, the dealership will only let you take the car home with proof of insurance to comply with state requirements.
Most insurance companies need someone with a valid driver’s license to be the primary operator of the vehicle. You can be the policyholder and the car owner. Still, the primary driver must have a license, and policies often mandate that the person is a family member at your address.
Insurance policies for new drivers can be expensive, so make time to shop around for coverage quotes.
Can You Register a Car Without a License?
A driver’s license is not required to register a car. Dealerships typically take care of registering the vehicle you bought. Also, Autotrader’s Private Seller Exchange handles registration paperwork in most cases when using the service to buy from an individual.
Check with your state’s department of motor vehicles (DMV) to learn what identification is needed if you have to visit in person to register your car. Showing a driver’s license is often only one of several acceptable forms of identification.
