Need complete explanation of buying used cars (private party) (sale, insurance)

[TimX]

I've done some searches and found bits and pieces, but I really need a step by step explanation of all the legal procedures in buying a used car from a private party in chronological order. I know that title transfers, registrations, and inspections need to occur, but how and in what order? Also, how to I get the car home after buying it without plates?

[Native_Son]

Call your insurance company, insure the new vehicle.

Take check to seller. Have title notarized at bank. Make sure the seller signs name and prints it too.

Take signed title and car directly to DMV. Pay for tax and title. Get plate.

Works for me. I usually am transferring a plate, so I just slap it on when I purchase. Even if you get a ticket it's just a "fix it ticket"...

[Jkgourmet]

Above steps and add:

At the bank, have the seller sign a bill of sale that includes description of the car,mileage, VIN number. Get the bank to notarize that statement. If you get stopped without a plate within (roughly) 5 business days of the date of thisdocument, the cop won't issue a tivket., assuming you can prove you've gotten insurance.

One correction to the above: No (smart) seller will accept a check. Cash or MAYBE a local, certified check are the only acceptable forms of payment. This is why We meet buyers at OUR bank to make the deposit on the spot.