Documents To Buy A Car Apr 2026

The complete list of documents you need to bring and expect to receive during a car purchase is detailed below. Documents You Must Bring

Depending on your region, people also use "long paper" to describe the official vehicle ownership document, such as a (US) or a V5C Logbook (UK). documents to buy a car

To buy a car, the main "long paper" or contract you sign is called the or the Retail Installment Sales Contract (if you are financing). The complete list of documents you need to

The title and current registration of your old car if you are trading it in. Documents You Will Sign and Receive The title and current registration of your old

Required by law before you can drive the vehicle off the lot.

A recent utility bill or lease agreement (usually required if you are financing).

What paperwork do I need to buy a car in the UK? (2026 update)