05-20-2024, 10:10 PM
(05-20-2024, 09:12 PM)Chas Wrote: I tried to buy a vehicle in PA, but couldn't because I wasn't a resident of PA. Hawaii's solution was to have the vehicle shipped over to inspect, then shipped back so I could buy it, then ship it back to HI again.
Sorry. But I have to call this absolute BS. (Although the Hawaii response may have been accurate)
Buying a car out of state (assuming Hawaii is your residence) is totally legal in all remaining 49 states. Each state may have various requirements that have to be met, but there is nothing that says in any state that you must be a resident of that state.
Further, you may have to pay the states applicable taxes and fees, but typically you would apply for an “in transit” temporary tag/plate which is generally good for 30 to 60 days, as well as providing proof of insurance acceptable in the state of purchase.
Pennsylvania is one state that has the “plate stays with the owner” law unlike Hawaii where the plate stays with the car, so any car bought there will have no plates.
There are dozens of private companies that specialize in these types of registration/licensing specifically for out of state purchases of motor vehicles.
So either you got the royal run around from some unscrupulous people or you’re not telling the truth.