Out-of-State Car Buying Guide
More drivers are exploring inventory beyond their home state to find the right BMW. At BMW of Rochester Hills, serving Rochester Hills, Troy, and Lake Orion, Michigan, one of the questions we hear often is whether it’s possible to buy a car across state lines.
The answer is yes. With a little planning, purchasing out of state is straightforward and can expand your options if you want a new or pre-owned BMW.
Is It Allowed to Buy Out of State?
It is absolutely legal to purchase a vehicle in Michigan and register it in another state, provided you follow your state’s DMV requirements. For example, someone living in Ohio or Indiana can shop in Rochester Hills and then handle registration at home.
Our BMW dealer supplies the paperwork you’ll need—a bill of sale and temporary registration—so you can drive back without delays. This process has become increasingly common as buyers research specific trims and features online.
How Do Taxes Work?
You won’t have to pay tax twice. When you buy from our dealer, we collect sales tax for your home state and submit it. If your state has a higher rate than Michigan's, you’ll pay the difference when registering.
The DMV at your residence checks the bill of sale against your payment to ensure the right amount was collected. This way, you avoid extra steps and focus on your new BMW.
Bringing the Vehicle Home
After purchase, you decide whether to drive or ship the car. Driving home is simple: our BMW dealer provides temporary registration and title paperwork, giving you legal coverage until your state registration is complete. Be aware of the expiration date to avoid issues.
Shipping is also available. While fees vary depending on distance—anywhere from several hundred to over a thousand dollars—it’s a convenient choice if you don’t want to put extra miles on your new BMW.
Registering in Your State
Once home, you’ll head to your local DMV with your bill of sale, proof of insurance, ID, and proof of residence. The clerk will process the registration, collect any additional tax owed, and mail your title.
Each state may add its own step, such as emissions testing or safety inspection. Our team can explain what to expect so you’re prepared before leaving Michigan.
Insurance Requirements
Your BMW must be insured before you can legally drive it. Some insurers provide automatic coverage for new purchases for a limited time, but this isn’t guaranteed. The safe move is to contact your insurance company ahead of time so your policy is active when you pick up your car.
If your BMW is financed, your lender may require comprehensive and collision coverage. Meeting these terms ensures your financing stays valid.
FAQs
What makes out-of-state buying worthwhile?
Access to more inventory. If a specific BMW trim or color isn’t available locally, shopping in Rochester Hills can give you exactly what you want without waiting months for an order.
Can I complete the process online?
Yes. Many buyers handle financing paperwork digitally and pick up their BMW in person or arrange delivery. This flexibility is especially useful for busy drivers in Troy or Lake Orion.
How can I make the process smoother?
Plan ahead. Contact your insurance company before purchase, review your state’s DMV requirements, and bring all documents with you. Our BMW dealer helps with tax collection and temporary registration to simplify the transition.
Contact Us to Learn More
BMW of Rochester Hills welcomes drivers from Rochester Hills, Rochester, Troy, Lake Orion, MI, and those shopping across state lines. We make out-of-state buying manageable with tax support, temporary registration, and delivery options. Contact us to learn more about this process and how we can make it easier for you.
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