Yes, a car dealer can drive a new car back to your home or a specified location, but this is not a standard, automatic service. It is typically a courtesy delivery arranged as part of the sale, often for a fee. The key factor is that the dealer uses a dealer plate (also known as a transporter plate), which is a special license plate that allows them to operate unregistered vehicles legally for business purposes. This plate is tied to the dealership's own insurance policy, which should cover the vehicle during this transit.
However, this practice is governed by state laws. The dealership must ensure the vehicle is properly insured and that the driver is an employee acting on behalf of the business. It is not a service they would typically offer for long-distance moves, as it ties up a staff member. Before agreeing, you should confirm with the dealer that their insurance is active for the trip and get confirmation in writing. For most buyers, arranging your own insurance and driving the car home yourself after completing the paperwork is the more common and straightforward process.
| Consideration | Key Details |
|---|
| Legal Mechanism | Use of a dealer plate for business purposes. |
| Insurance Coverage | Covered under the dealership's garage liability policy during transit. |
| Typical Scenarios | Short-distance deliveries, customer courtesy after a late-night sale. |
| Potential Cost | May be complimentary or incur a delivery fee (e.g., $50-$150). |
| Driver Requirement | Must be a dealership employee, not a friend or family member. |
| State Regulations | Varies by state; some have strict rules on dealer plate usage. |
