Buying a Car Out of State: Taxes, Title, Inspection, and Getting It Home

See how it differs from your home state rules. Your home state rule generally determines what you owe. Dealers may collect applicable Texas tax at purchase, while private buyers often pay when titling or registering the vehicle. 

It depends on the states involved. You may receive credit for tax paid elsewhere or owe a difference. Confirm the rules that apply with your home state's DMV and tax authority before purchasing. 

Title, Registration, and Temporary Tags 

The vehicle must be legally registered and titled under your home state's requirements. Temporary tags and permits let you drive home, but eligibility, validity periods, and application procedures vary. 

How to Get an Out-of-State Car Home 

Option 1: Drive it yourself home. 

You may need to stop along the way, buy extra fuel, pay for meals, cover extra mileage, arrange temporary registration, and handle the challenges of a long journey. 

Option 2: Ship the car 

Professional auto transport helps you avoid long drives and reduce delivery mileage. Open transport is generally cheaper than enclosed transport, which provides extra protection for classic, exotic, luxury, or high-value vehicles. 

Learn more about how to ship to another state. 

How Much Does It Cost to Bring a Car Home From Another State? 

This table gives typical cost factors beyond the advertised vehicle price. 

According to move.org's 2026 price analysis, nearly 800 car-shipping quotes are reported, averaging around $914 for open transport and $1,342 for enclosed transport. 

Compare your options using the full cost of the purchase. For more details, see Car Shipping Costs. 

Step-by-Step: How to Buy a Car Out of State 

1. Find and research the vehicle. Compare prices, mileage, condition, history report, and market value.
2. Confirm the seller and documents. Match the VIN and confirm ownership, title status, and outstanding liens.
3. Arrange an independent inspection for a thorough check.
4. Confirm taxes and registration requirements. Know your home state's rules before signing.
5. Complete the purchase. Get the signed title, bill of sale, odometer disclosure, and other required documents. 
6. Arrange transportation. Compare driving costs with professional auto shipping.
7. Register the vehicle at home. Complete required tax payments, title transfer, inspection, insurance, and registration within your state's deadline.

Seven-step guide to buying a car out of state, from vehicle research and inspection to shipping and registration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you ship a car to another state?

Yes. Absolutely. Interstate car shipping exists.  

How much does it cost to transport a car to another state?

Interstate car shipping typically costs $500–$1,000, but the total cost depends on miles, transport type, season, location, and more.  

What is the cheapest way to ship a car to another state?

The cheapest way to ship a car is to choose open transport, book early, use terminal-to-terminal delivery, and ship during off-peak seasons.  

How long does it take to ship a car between states?

It typically takes 1-2 weeks, but it can take longer because of logistics constraints, including the vehicle's condition, route congestion, loading and unloading, and checkpoints. 

What do I need to do to prepare my car for interstate shipping?

Properly preparing your car for interstate shipping includes; 

• Cleaning the vehicle 
• Take a photograph of the vehicle (360 view) and document any damaged areas. 
• Taking out personal belongings and loose items.
• Leave the fuel level at 1/4