Buying a T4R out of state

[cencyc]

I've come across a good deal on a 2001 4Runner, though I may need some help. I'm in Colorado...the T4R is in Tulsa. The photos look good, 1 owner carfax with no accidents or discrepancies, timing belt replaced recently. The owner seems trustworthy (ain't google amazing!).

I have a few questions/issues

I won't be able to test drive or look at it until I fly down to pick it up. Any advice on buying out of state? Is Carchex worthwhile?

If I purchase it, how do I get a temporary tag to get it back to Colorado? I've checked several sites and they all seem to say that I have to be a dealer/wholesaler to get one.

 

[G_T]

I just bought a runner in Maryland and drove it back to Colorado. In order to get it back, I went to the DMV with a copy of the title and a bill of sale (copy available on DMV's website) and got temp tags.

When I got back to CO, I got a VIN inspection, and took proof of insurance, the real title, the registration, and my license and got plates.

When you drive it back, make sure you have everything in order. I got pulled over because the temp tags are really hard to see through the rear window.

 

[cencyc]

Tagless

I called Oklahoma and they will not issue a temporary tag on a private sale. Only dealers can issue temporary tags. Colorado will issue one, but only if the vehicle is physically in Colorado.

So I guess I take the title and bill of sale and hope that any police officers accept that as legal.

Definitely keeping it at the speed limit on the drive home!

 

[Caffeine Power]

Bill of sale (title) and proof of insurance should satisfy any LEO.

 

[G_T]

I was able to get temp tags from Colorado (Larimer County) while the truck I was buying was still in Maryland. Copy of the title, a perjury clause bill of sale, that's really all I needed.