How to Buy Used Cars in Oregon

If you are in the market for a used car in Oregon, you should shop and research until you can find the right vehicle. Once you find the right vehicle, you can learn Oregon Department of Motor Vehicle registering and titling procedures on the Oregon DMV website. Knowing these procedures can simplify the buying process or help you deal with an irregular scenario. The state of Oregon offers numerous vanity plates to choose from and a paid four-year registration period.

Instructions

1

Search for a used car. Use an Internet source such as Craigslist, a website that offers used car classifieds in your area. Review advertisements in your local newspaper, either in print or online. Also consider newspapers published in large metropolitan areas such as Portland, Salem, Eugene or Gresham, if you live in a rural area.

2

Search online used car directories such as AutoTrader or Cars.com, which are both widely used by dealers to advertise stock. MSN or Yahoo Autos will also return results. Input your zip code to search used vehicles in your area.

3

Call the seller of a vehicle you are interested in to make an appointment to view and test drive the car. After driving the vehicle and considering price, decide if you want to purchase the car or continue shopping. Shop until you find the vehicle you want.

4

Ask the seller what payment method is preferred. Go to your bank to take out cash or obtain a bank or certified check for the seller. If you plan on taking out a loan for the vehicle, make sure you already have your approval in order so that you may quickly obtain the funds for the seller.

5

Call or visit your insurance company to obtain proof of insurance on your vehicle, which is necessary to register and title your new car. Bring the proof of insurance to your local DMV office, along with the title of the vehicle and your license. Make sure it is signed by the seller in the proper area and has the correct odometer reading listed. Bring your plates with you if you are transferring from another vehicle.

6

Fill out the form titled "Application for Title and Registration." You can print this form from the DMV website before going to your local DMV office, or the form is available at the office. The back of the title serves as a required odometer statement. Your DMV representative will let you know if and when emissions testing (DEQ inspection) is required.

7

Pay the plate, title and registration fees, which differ by Oregon county. Put the plates on your vehicle to legally drive it home. Make sure you have received all keys or accessories from the seller before taking the car home.