FOr those of you who have purchased your Priuses out of state, what do I need to know if I am considering doing this? I'm from NY and see my desired configs in dealers in PA, NC and VA and IL. What do I need to know before buying? What do I need to do to ensure I don't get screwed doing this? What taxes and fees do I need to anticipate/be aware of? Are there procedures I'll need to do that complicate this?
Get a "purchase agreement" (signed by the sales manager) with all the purchase details spelled out, before you leave the house. Also have your financing in place or a check in hand before you walk into the finance office. Compare the payments of your own financing with theirs if they ask to try and match it. If they don't match, they've added something into the previously agreed price.
If you buy in Mass, they'll want you to register it in Mass. and buy Mass. plates before they'll let you take the car.
The lemon laws of the state where you purchased the car apply, not where the car ends up. Lesson learned for me, I only buy in the state of California where they have one of, if not the best lemon laws in the country.
Only one right answer: Ask the DMV (or equivalent) in both States involved. If there are rules (laws) in a given State that you feel are screwing you over...... don't buy there. Most are reasonable and likely will include paying sales tax to the State where you buy.
