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What paperwork do you need when you want to buy a car?

Buying a vehicle isn't too difficult if you know precisely what documents you require for the transaction. We list all the paperwork you need for your next vehicle purchase.

Buying a Car1 min read

Getting the paperwork done

Buying a car can be a rather daunting experience, and one of the most-asked questions we get at #AskAutoTrader, is what paperwork you need to purchase a car. We chatted to a few dealerships, and the answer is surprisingly simple.

Related: What documents should I get when buying a car from a dealer?

Once you’ve decided to purchase, you will need three documents for the dealer to initiate the sale.

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ID Document 

A green barcoded ID or SA ID card is needed to prove you are you. If you are a foreign national, your country of origin’s ID and relevant work permit or visa will be required.

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Proof of residence

You must provide proof of residence, for example, a utility bill or similar bill statement mailed to your residential address. If you have no bills to speak of, which is highly unlikely, a copy of your rental agreement should do.

Can you call off a sale if you’ve already signed the paperwork?

 

Proof of income

The last document you will need is proof of employment or income. Your latest payslip or (if you are self-employed) a few months’ worth of bank statements will do – usually the last three.

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The dealership will then assess affordability to see how much you can comfortably afford monthly. Then, their finance team will assist with securing finance from one of the various financial institutions.

The same documents will be needed if you want to sell your car and have a few tools available on AutoTrader to assist. You can get an Instant Offer or find out how much you qualify for on your finance amount.

 

Author - Lawrence Minnie

Written by Lawrence Minnie

Lawrence has been involved with motorsports for almost 30 years. Whether it's two wheels or four, if it has an engine, he will try to race it. This love of motor vehicles has led him to ride, drive, film, photograph, and write about his passion. Freelance for a while but now a permanent fixture on the AutoTrader team for over 7 years, Lawrence contributes written, photographic, and video content for AutoTrader and AutoTrader Bikes.Read more

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