Can You Finance a Car without a License?

Yes, it is possible to finance a car purchase without a driver’s license. Though there are no laws against such a transaction, it will really depend upon who provides the financing. Not all lenders are willing to work with unlicensed borrowers.

Dealers

For the most part, car dealers will not finance your car purchase if you do not have a driver’s license. After all, they want to know where you live in case they ever need to repossess your ride, and they are not likely to allow you to drive off the lot without a license. Although dealer financing might not be your best option, the dealer may work with you if you provide proof of residence and have a good reason for financing the vehicle, such as for a child or spouse.

Banks and Credit Unions

Banks and credit unions, on the other hand, may not require that you have a driver’s license before they will lend you money to buy a car. This is especially true if you have already built a healthy relationship with your bank or credit union. When you go this route, you are effectively paying the dealer cash, which you got from your bank or credit union, for your car.

Now, with that all being said, you ought not drive the car off the lot if you do not have a driver’s license. For this reason, if you are one of America’s unlicensed masses, make sure you bring along a licensed pal when you go shopping for car.

Should You Buy a Car without a License?

The question you should be asking yourself might not be if you can do this, but should you.  If you are financing the purchase for a family member, that makes sense.  However, if your license has been suspended, or you simply don’t have one, and you’re planning to drive the vehicle yourself, you will be facing stiff legal penalties and potentially time in jail.