What to Bring When Purchasing a Vehicle | McKie Ford | Rapid City, SD

What to Bring When Purchasing a Vehicle


Be Prepared for Your Vehicle Purchase

Having the right documents when you come to purchase a vehicle will make the process smoother and faster. This checklist ensures you have everything you need whether you're buying new or used, with cash or financing, and whether or not you're trading in a vehicle.

Driver's License and Insurance

Valid Driver's License

  • Proof of identity
  • Required for test drives and registration

Proof of Insurance

  • Needed before you can take the car off the lot
  • Lenders may require full coverage if financing
Payment Methods

Form of Payment

Depending on how you're purchasing:

  • Cash buyers: Certified or cashier's check, or wire transfer
  • Financing: Pre-approval letter or lender contact info
  • Down payment: Debit card, personal check, or certified funds
Financial Documents

Proof of Income and Employment

  • Required for financing through the dealership
  • Bring recent pay stubs, W-2s, or tax returns

Proof of Residence

  • A utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your current address
  • Often required by lenders

Credit Information

  • Know your credit score
  • Bring supporting documentation if you have limited credit history

Additional Requirements

Situation Documents Required
Co-Signer (if applicable)
  • Co-signer must be present with valid ID
  • Proof of income
  • Credit details
Co-Borrower (if applicable)
  • Both parties must be present
  • Each must bring valid driver's license
  • Proof of income and employment
  • Proof of residence
  • Any required financing documents
Business Purchases
  • EIN (Employer Identification Number)
  • Articles of Organization (AOO) or business license
  • Notarized letter on company letterhead stating the purchaser is authorized to buy on behalf of the business
Trade-In Items (if applicable)
  • Keys and remotes (all copies)
  • Vehicle title (or loan payoff information if not paid off)
  • Current registration
  • Service and maintenance records (optional but helpful)
Preparation Tips

Preparation Tips

Being prepared with all necessary documents will make your vehicle purchase experience smooth and efficient.


Questions or Inspection Checklist

  • A list of questions to ask the salesperson
  • Items to inspect during your test drive (technology, ride feel, cargo space, etc.)

Frequently Asked Questions

While having all documents makes the process smoother, our team at McKie Ford can work with you if you're missing some items. Certain documents like driver's license and proof of insurance are mandatory, but others we may be able to help you obtain or find alternatives for.

Yes, in most cases digital copies of documents like insurance cards, pay stubs, or utility bills are acceptable as long as they're clearly legible and show all required information.

With all documents prepared, the process typically takes 2-3 hours. Financing and paperwork take the most time. Coming prepared with all necessary documents can significantly reduce your wait time.

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