Purchasing a used car in New York can save you money, but it also comes with responsibilities. Unlike buying new, you’ll need to check the car’s roadworthiness yourself. Before visiting a seller, decide how much you can afford—both upfront and in ongoing expenses. Don’t forget to factor in insurance, repairs, gas, tolls, parking, and maintenance.
Tip: Always request the VIN or run a New York license plate lookup to see the car’s history and check if any safety recalls have been completed.
How Much Does a Used Car Cost in NYC?
Owning a car in NYC is more expensive than in most states due to high costs for insurance, parking, fuel, and maintenance.
- Average monthly cost (excluding financing, parking, and maintenance): ~$353
- Annual cost: ~$4,236
Small, fuel-efficient cars—like sedans or hybrids—are typically the most affordable to run, while pickup trucks and large sedans can cost $10,500+ annually in ownership expenses.
Driving Home a Car Bought from a Private Seller
If you buy from a private seller, you’ll need an in-transit permit before driving the car home.
Steps:
- Get auto insurance or proof of coverage.
- Apply for a title or registration at the DMV.
- Receive your transporter plate.
- Replace it with your permanent plate within 2–3 weeks.
Is It Worth Owning a Car in NYC?
While NYC’s public transportation is excellent, owning a car can be worth it if you commute daily, take frequent trips, or need the convenience of personal transport. Benefits include:
- Flexibility for weekend getaways and late-night drives
- Avoiding the hassle of rentals and train schedules
- Storage space for luggage, groceries, and personal items
Required Documents for Buying a Car in NY
To register and title your vehicle, you’ll need:
- Bill of Sale – Proof of ownership, including buyer/seller signatures
- Original NYS Certificate of Title – With mileage, sale date, and signatures
- Odometer Disclosure Statement – Mileage confirmation
- Damage Disclosure Statement – If the car has sustained major damage
- Statement of Transaction – For sales tax payment at the DMV
Sales Tax on a Used Car in NY
- State Sales Tax: 4%
- Local/County Tax: Varies by location
- NYC Sales Tax: Up to 8.88%
Best Cars for NYC Driving
The best car for New York depends on your lifestyle, but these are popular picks:
- BMW X1 (2020) – Compact SUV, stylish, and city-friendly
- Toyota Camry / Chevrolet Malibu – Spacious, safe, fuel-efficient sedans
- Mini Cooper – Small, maneuverable, perfect for tight parking spots
- Lexus RX Hybrid – Family SUV with fuel efficiency and safety features
Driving Without Registration in NY
Driving an unregistered vehicle is illegal in New York. To register, bring to the DMV:
- Original Title
- Bill of Sale
- NY State Insurance ID Card
- Completed Vehicle Registration Application
- NY Driver’s License