Tips for Buying a Car
“AS IS”
The term “AS IS” means exactly that. Inspect a vehicle you intend to purchase carefully or have it inspected by a
qualified mechanic. Warranties or repairs promised on used vehicles must be specified in writing and disclosed on the
sales contract or other written form of disclosure. A verbal promise is not binding.
No “Cooling Off” Period
The State of Nevada does not have any type of waiting period that allows you to return a vehicle you have purchased.
Once you have signed a sales contract, you have purchased the vehicle and are liable for payments.
Understand the Sales Contract
It is your responsibility to understand the terms of the sale and financing before you enter into an agreement and do not
sign a contract that contains blank spaces.
Private Party Sales
The Department recommends that sales between private parties occur at a residence. Consumers who buy vehicles
displayed for sale from roadsides, vacant lots or commercial parking lots often have no recourse if there is a problem with
registration or titling. In most cases it is illegal to sell a vehicle from an empty lot. Nevada law allows private parties to sell
only three personally owned vehicles per year without a dealer’s license.
Responsibilities of a Dealer
Dealer’s report of sale - You must receive this document within 20 day of the date of sale from the dealer to register
your vehicle. You have 30 days to register the vehicle.
Used Vehicle Inspection Report - Dealers are required to visually inspect the engine and drivetrain on any vehicle,
which registers 75,000 miles or more on its odometer, and provide you with a copy of that inspection.
Emission Control Certificate - Dealers must provide this to buyers if vehicles are sold to residents of counties where
an emissions control check is required.
Title Documentation - Dealers must submit the required documentation needed to create a Nevada title on any used
vehicle sold in this state within 30 days of sale. Documents applicable to new vehicle sales must be submitted to the
Department within 20 days. DMV will then forward the new Nevada title to the lien holder or legal owner.
Responsibilities of the Department of Motor Vehicles
Licensing and Law Enforcement - DMV licenses the following types of businesses, their business principals and sales
staff.
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Vehicle dealers and brokers
Wreckers
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Car rental agencies
Body shops
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Manufacturers
Emission inspection stations
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Re-builders
Drive Schools
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Transporters
Garages must register with the Department and post a bond
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Salvage pools
Contact Information
Carson City
Reno
Las Vegas
555 Wright Way
305 Galletti Way
8250 W. Flamingo Rd.
Carson City, NV. 89711
Reno, NV. 89512
Las Vegas, NV. 89117
PH: 775-684-4690
PH: 775-684-3562
PH: 702-486-8620
FAX: 775-684-4691
FAX: 775-684-3544
Fax: 702-486-8602
Elko
Nevada Department of Motor
3920 E. Idaho St.
Vehicles
Elko, NV. 89801
PH: 775-753-1175
info@dmv.state.nv.us
FAX: 775-753-1127