Key Considerations
You can buy a car without a license. However, you cannot drive it legally on public roads without a valid license. People without a license may want to buy a vehicle:
- To buy a car as a gift
- If you are a business owner buying a company car for employees
- To have a vehicle when you get a license
While buying a car without a license is possible, it adds complications. You cannot test drive vehicles at a dealership without a license. Most dealerships will refuse to finance a car purchase without a license. To finance a car, you would need to find alternative options that do not require you to have a license—however, lenders will likely still require a government ID and proof of income.
Registration and Insurance Challenges
You cannot register a vehicle without a driver’s license and proof of insurance. You would need to share ownership with someone who has a license and would be named as the titleholder. Additionally, you cannot obtain insurance without a license. You would need to be listed as an excluded driver on someone else’s policy, leading to higher premiums.
Practical Considerations
While buying a car without a license is theoretically possible, the realities – such as financing, titling, registering, and insuring – make it an impractical idea for most individuals. It is better to get a license first, if possible, before attempting to purchase a vehicle. Otherwise, alternatives like short-term rental services may be preferable for temporary transportation needs.
Buying with a Permit in Florida and North Carolina
Can you buy a car with a permit in Florida or in North Carolina? Yes, the rules are similar to those mentioned earlier. The complications of buying without a valid driver’s license remain consistent across states. Whether you’re in Florida or North Carolina, consider the challenges laid out above before proceeding with a vehicle purchase without a license.