Identification and insurance requirements
A valid, government-issued driver's license is mandatory for two reasons. First, the dealership requires it before they will allow you to test drive any vehicle. Second, it is legally required to establish your identity for the final purchase contracts and state registration forms.
You must also provide proof of active auto insurance. According to state regulations, such as those enforced by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, a vehicle cannot be registered without proof of insurance. The dealership will need a copy of your current insurance card or declarations page.
If you are transferring a license plate from a previous vehicle, bring your current registration document. The finance department needs the specific details on the registration to process the plate transfer accurately.
Trade-in documentation
If you plan to trade in your current vehicle, you must bring the physical certificate of title if you own the car outright. The title must be free of any unreleased liens, and all owners listed on the title must be present to sign it over.
If you are currently making payments on your trade-in, bring a recent statement from your lender showing the account number and the payoff balance. The dealership needs this information to contact the bank and arrange the final payoff.
Additionally, bring all items associated with the trade-in vehicle. This includes all sets of keys, key fobs, the owner's manual, and any accessories that originally came with the car, such as cargo covers or specific floor mats.
Payment methods
You must bring an accepted form of payment for your purchase or down payment. Dealerships generally accept cashier's checks issued by a bank, personal checks subject to verification, or credit cards up to a certain limit.
If you have arranged outside financing through your own bank or credit union, bring the physical draft or check provided by your lender. The dealership will need to verify the instructions on the draft to process the transaction.
Cash policies vary by dealership. Some locations limit the amount of physical cash they accept due to security and reporting requirements. It is always safer and more efficient to use a cashier's check or wire transfer for large amounts.