10. Get a title and register the car

Typically, both the seller and buyer sign the car’s title and register the sale with the state. Legally, you don’t own the car until the right papers are filed.

If you buy a used car from a dealer, most of the paperwork should be handled for you. Still, there are some sneaky or lazy dealers who won’t do it right. If you buy from a private person, it’s up to you to find out what forms you need.

The system varies from state to state. These are typical requirements:

• Your state may require documents such as a bill of sale, proof of liability insurance, and proof that taxes have been paid.
• You may need to have one or more of these documents notarized (signed by a notary public).