Buying a used car doesn’t have to be complicated — especially when you’re prepared. At QC Auto Group in Kokomo, Indiana, we believe in making the process simple and smooth. One of the best ways to avoid delays and drive off in your next vehicle the same day is knowing what documents and items to bring with you.
Whether you're coming from right here in Kokomo or from surrounding cities like Westfield, Noblesville, or Logansport, this guide will walk you through exactly what you need to bring when purchasing your next vehicle.
Valid Driver’s License
Your driver’s license is a must. It verifies your identity and confirms you're legally allowed to drive. Make sure it’s current and not expired. If your license has your old address, bringing a piece of recent mail can help validate your current residence.
Proof of Insurance
In Indiana, you’re required to have auto insurance before you can drive a new (or used) car off the lot. Contact your insurance provider before visiting us or bring their contact info so we can help you set up coverage quickly.
Form of Payment or Down Payment
If you’re buying a vehicle outright, bring your full payment via cash, certified check, or another approved method. If you’re financing, bring your down payment and any pre-approval documentation. We make it easy to apply online in advance.
Trade-In Vehicle and Documents
If you're trading in a vehicle, be sure to bring:
You can start your appraisal online through our We Buy Cars page.
Proof of Income
When applying for financing, especially if you're not pre-approved, lenders will often require proof of income. Pay stubs, bank statements, or recent tax returns will work. If you’re self-employed, bring 1099 forms or bank deposit history.
Proof of Residence
A utility bill, lease agreement, or piece of official mail dated within the last 30 days helps confirm your current address. This is often required for financing paperwork and insurance setup.
List of References
Some lenders may request personal references — especially for first-time buyers or those establishing new credit. Prepare a list of at least 5 references with full names, addresses, and phone numbers.
Additional Documents for Special Situations
If you’re buying with a co-signer, they need to bring their documentation too.
If your name has changed recently, bring documents to verify the change (e.g., marriage certificate).
If you’re using a power of attorney, bring the notarized documentation.
Benefits of Preparing in Advance
At QC Auto Group, we want you to drive off the lot feeling confident and stress-free. Being prepared shortens the time it takes to complete your paperwork, get financing approved, and finalize insurance. It also helps us find you the best possible options faster. You can preview payments using our Loan Calculator.
How to Prepare Before Your Visit
Browse our Inventory online and select your top vehicles.
Use the Vehicle Finder if we don’t have exactly what you want.
Submit your application through our Credit App.
Gather your documents and schedule your visit through the Visit Us page.
Have questions? Reach out through our Contact Us form or visit the About Us page to learn more.
What You Don't Need to Worry About
At QC Auto Group, we handle:
Vehicle history reports
Registration paperwork
Title transfers
Tax calculations
We even report payments to credit bureaus when applicable, helping you build credit over time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I buy a car without a driver’s license?
You typically need a valid license to complete a vehicle purchase, especially if you're driving the vehicle off the lot.
Do I need full coverage insurance?
If you’re financing the vehicle, lenders usually require full coverage. Cash buyers can choose coverage levels based on Indiana’s minimum insurance laws.
How much money should I bring for a down payment?
Down payment amounts vary, but we recommend having at least 10% of the vehicle’s price ready. Our finance team can provide options.
What if I forget one of these items?
We’ll do everything we can to help you complete your purchase, but some documents are required by law or lenders — so it’s best to come prepared.
Can someone else buy a car for me?
Only if they’re listed on the title and financing. Otherwise, they can co-sign or help with payment, but the car will be registered in the buyer’s name.
What if I’m still making payments on my trade-in?
We can still accept your trade. Bring your loan info, and we’ll handle the payoff process. Visit our We Buy Cars page for more.
