Buying a used vehicle from a trusted dealer or seller can be a great way to get on the road without spending a lot. Whether you’re a growing family adding a second car to the garage, a new driver in need of your first wheels or someone who appreciates a good deal, the process of buying a used car can be exciting.

However, it also could be frustrating and tedious if you’re not prepared for it. If one doesn’t have everything straightened out ahead of time, he or she could be in for a long, potentially exhausting day (or more). To save you some time and prepare you for what lies ahead, here are some tips about all the documentation that is needed. This includes some basic information about the

What You’ll Need to Bring

Not all experiences are the same, but it never hurts to be over-prepared. Are you going to the dealership or the seller’s location expecting to drive away that day? If so, you’ll be in a much better position if you bring the following documents:

• Driver’s license: Make sure it’s up to date and valid. If you can’t offer proof of one, you probably won’t get far.

• Your last three pay stubs: Beyond showing that one is legal to drive, you’ll also need to provide some assurance that you can pay for the new purchase. If you hold more than one job, bring stubs for each as a proof of income.

• Proof of residency: It’s a good idea to bring any type of utility bill just to show that one’s address is accurate. This information also helps verify your credit score and can expedite the loan approval procedure.

• References: Provide the names and contact information of a few people who can vouch for your reliability. These should be people who don’t live in the same household as you.

• Documents from the old car: These include the title, registration and/or the letter of loan release. If you don’t have an existing vehicle or won’t be trading one in, you don’t have to worry about this.

What to Expect When Buying a Used Car

There’s a lot to consider to ensure you get the most out of the new vehicle. Here are some of the basic steps for buying a used car.

• Find a good dealer. Check online reviews and ask around before visiting a dealership. When buying from an individual, call first to establish a relationship and ask about the car.

• Take a test drive. In addition to a visual inspection, be sure to take the vehicle for a spin before making a decision.

• Check the history report. Checking online for the vehicle’s history is crucial. Use the vehicle identification or license plate number. At JDBNOW, each vehicle has a certified AutoCheck report available upon request.

• Set your budget early. Decide ahead of time how much you’re willing to spend and stick with it. This will prevent you from spending too much and help you during negotiations.

Purchasing a used set of wheels can be a wise decision for many reasons. Being prepared for the process will ensure that you have the smoothest time doing so. When one is ready, he or she can save even more time by visiting JDBNOW. We have a large inventory of high-quality, dependable pre-owned vehicles just waiting for you.