buying a car in Texas (sales, insurance, inspection)

[b&t]

Hello,

I am moving to SA from LA this August and am looking into buying a new car (toyota prius hybrid) I am a little ignorant when it comes to state tax differences, etc. and was wondering if any would know to what I would benefit more financially, buying a car in Texas or California? (meaning should I wait to get it when I move or buy if before because of state taxes, etc.)

Thanks!

[ShaneSA]

Check the website for the Texas Dept. of Motor Vehiles or Sales Tax. I want to say that if you register a car in Texas within 6 months of buying it, you have to pay the sales tax to Texas. I would not want to see you have to pay 2 sales taxes if you buy the car in Ca and then move here and try to register it. I don't know the sales tax rate, check those in both states and see what state has the lowest tax rate, that will be a better guide as to what state is better to buy.

[scuba steve]

Don't forget to factor in California emissions... doesn't that cost something too? You'll probably save in time (registering and smog in CA, then running around to reregister in TX) and a bit of money by just postponing the purchase for after the move. I don't know if there's any kind of premium or above average demand for hybrids in LA like when I was there, but I doubt they're as popular in TX so the base price of the car might be less.

Check this out:
Vehicle Requirements for New Residents
You have to pay $90 as a new resident fee for each car on top of whatever else they charge. My vote goes to buying it after the move.

[annie_annie]

If you're definitely moving to TX I'd wait and buy the car here in TX. It would save you the aggravation and expense of having to get the title, license plate, inspection, insurance, etc switched over to TX.

[1StarRanch]

I'd also consider buying a Yaris 41 MPG and not a Hybrid which cost you more and would take years to recoup your moneys worth. Just my op.