What Should I Bring When Buying a Car at Your Choice Autos:

What Should I Bring When Buying a Car at Your Choice Autos:

Essential Documents 

1. Valid driver’s license 

Required for test-drives and finalizing the purchase (also serves as ID for financing) 

2. Proof of insurance 

Most dealerships, including those in Illinois, must see valid coverage before you can drive off. 

3. Proof of residency 

Bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement showing your current Chicago address—needed for financing paperwork 

Financing & Payment 

4. Proof of income 

Recent pay stubs, W-2s, or tax returns (especially if you're financing) help confirm your ability to pay 

5. Pre-approval letter (optional but smart) 

If you secured financing via a bank or credit union, bring the letter. It strengthens your negotiation position 

6. Money for down payment 

Have a cashier’s check, debit/credit card, or cash ready for the down payment—check beforehand what forms the dealer accepts

If You're Trading In 

7. Title for trade-in 

Required to prove ownership. Make sure you bring it signed if you're the registered owner 

8. Registration and keys 

Current registration is useful even if expired. Bringing all sets of keys is also important 

9. Loan payoff info (if any) 

If you're still paying off the trade-in, bring the lender’s info and loan account number 

10. Service/maintenance records 

Helps boost trade-in value 

Additional Tips 

∙ Social Security Number 

Dealerships often need this for credit checks or IRS reporting, especially for purchases over $10,000. 

∙ Personal References 

If you have limited credit, bring 3–5 references with name, address, phone, and employer info. 

∙ Discount documents 

If you're eligible for military, student, or recent grad rebates, bring the relevant proof (ID card, transcript, diploma). 

Final Suggestions 

∙ Call ahead to confirm which payment types and documents the dealership accepts.

∙ Organize everything in a folder or binder so nothing gets lost. 

∙ Double-check expirations (driver’s license, insurance, pay stubs). 

∙ Be ready: the more prepared you are, the faster and more confidently you can close the deal.