DMV questions: Bought car online and now trying to figure out next steps

Submitted by ScorchedOak t3_102gd7c in Pennsylvania

So I bought a car from Driveway, and we won’t get into the details of how horrific this experience has been, but I received temporary in-transit plates from Michigan today for the car I bought online.

PennDOT has the most confusing online information about out of state plates, but I was never out of state buying the car.

My confusion lies within needing a copy of the title, which may or may not be in Michigan, with plates that are rapidly expiring.

And apparently I can’t do a PA inspection without a PA title and registration. So, I’m at a loss as to what to do.

I am very much regretting every buying a car online. I don’t recommend it unless you’re very certain of the next steps.

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Wild_Box9005 t1_j2t1f6o wrote

Go to a fast tag center with your finance information, they should be able to get what you need to get it registered and in most cases you leave with plates and a registration. It costs a bit more but is more fast tracked than doing it yourself

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ScorchedOak OP t1_j2t1idi wrote

Perfect. I’ll go over there during my lunch tomorrow.

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Wild_Box9005 t1_j2t6yuu wrote

I’d give them a call today before they close so you know exactly what they will need :) they’re not usually the happiest of people to deal with at least where I’m at

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axeville t1_j2tegzo wrote

Carvana was a great experience in this regard. Sorry you're having trouble but seems specific to the company.

Only suggestion is try a tag and title place for advice and pay their small fee.

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delcodick t1_j2tsn7d wrote

Lol. You appear to be unaware of the Carvana legal difficulties with numerous States over this exact issue.

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axeville t1_j2tviv8 wrote

Wow three cars no issues. I thought it was great. They are prob going under but I will miss them.

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delcodick t1_j2tvy9u wrote

Well they managed to disrupt the market to actually increase the costs to consumers by inflating used car values so I doubt many will share your sadness. 🤷‍♂️ they are in debt to their major secured creditors to the tune of $4 billion so unsecured creditors are pretty much getting as screwed as the market place was by them.

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AFD_0 t1_j2uinv7 wrote

I was recently told by a state inspection station that they can inspect and sticker your vehicle using your temporary out-of-state plate and the temporary registration that came with it (needing only your DL and proof of insurance in a addition, but not a title or PA registration).

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ScorchedOak OP t1_j3901ov wrote

I got inspected! Now I have to wait on plates!

I can’t get ahold of the certificate of title. :(

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AFD_0 t1_j39i6tg wrote

I bought a new car out of state recently and it took almost 2 months to get my plates, registration and title. The title actually arrived first, since it was mailed directly to me (reg/plates are mailed to the dealership, then re-mailed to you).

Just keep an eye on the expiration date for your temporary reg/plates and if needed, the dealership should be able to get them extended (temps are usually good for 2 months). Best of luck!

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Fr0dg549910 t1_j2usitw wrote

AAA does this for free for members. Discount on registration and inspection too

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