Yes, a dealership can legally sell a car to an unlicensed driver. The act of purchasing a vehicle—exchanging money for a title—is not restricted by the buyer's driving credentials. However, the critical legal and practical hurdle is not the sale itself, but what happens immediately after. The unlicensed individual cannot legally drive the car off the dealership lot. Driving without a valid license is a serious offense, and a dealership facilitating this could face liability issues.
The standard solution is to have a licensed driver accompany the buyer to take delivery of the vehicle. The dealership will typically require this licensed driver to be present for the final paperwork and to drive the car away. Some dealerships may offer to deliver the car directly to the buyer's address for an additional fee, which is another legal and common workaround.
Financing and insurance add further complexity. While paying with cash is straightforward, securing an auto loan often requires a valid driver's license as part of the lender's identity and risk assessment process. Similarly, you cannot register or insure a vehicle in most states without a driver's license number. The table below outlines key considerations for an unlicensed buyer:
| Consideration | Challenge for Unlicensed Buyer | Common Solution |
|---|
| Taking Delivery | Cannot legally drive the car away. | Have a licensed friend/family member drive it, or pay for dealership delivery. |
| Financing | Lenders typically require a valid license for loan approval. | A larger down payment or a co-signer with a license may be necessary. |
| Insurance | Most insurers require a licensed primary driver on the policy. | The car must be registered and insured under a licensed driver's name. |
| Registration | State DMVs require a license number to register a vehicle. | The vehicle title and registration will list the licensed primary driver. |
Ultimately, the car must be titled, registered, and insured under the name of a licensed driver, even if the unlicensed person is the primary owner. It's crucial to discuss these logistics with the dealership's finance and insurance manager upfront to ensure a smooth, legal transaction.
