Car Registration Loan: What You Need to Know

You may have found yourself in a situation where you needed money fast but didn’t have any good options, and if you did you may have even considered a car registration loan. But if you are unfamiliar, you may be wondering what a registration loan is, so let’s first cover the basics.  

A car registration loan is a type of short-term loan that uses your car’s registration as collateral. This can be a good option if you need money fast and don’t have any other assets to use as collateral. However, you need to own your car outright and be prepared that if you default on the loan, the lender can seize your vehicle.   

Because of this, an auto registration loan is considered a high-risk loan and typically has much higher interest rates than traditional loans.  

To get this loan, you’ll first need to bring your vehicle to the lender. The lender will then appraise the value of your vehicle and give you a loan based on a percentage of that value. For example, if your vehicle is valued at $5,000, the lender may give you a loan for $3,500.  

Once you’ve received the funds, you’ll need to make regular payments to the lender until the loan is paid off in full.   

As this loan can be very risky and even cost you your vehicle, be sure that before taking it out you understand all of the terms and conditions. These loans should only be used as a last resort when other options have been exhausted.  

What Exactly Is a Car Registration Loan?

Registration loans are one way to get cash in hand immediately when you need it. They are short-term loans that use your car’s registration as collateral. The amount you can borrow depends on the value of your car, and you typically have to repay the loan within 30 days.  

Keep in mind that vehicle registration loans in general have very high-interest rates that can exceed 300%. They are one of the most expensive types of loans, and that’s why they are always referred to as the last resort.  

How Do Car Registration Loans Work?

It is not enough to know what these loans are, you must also take the time to understand how to do registration loans work.  

The first step in this whole process is determining if you actually need one. With a registration loan, you can use your car’s paperwork to secure your loan. The entire process is quick and the best part is that you can keep your vehicle and not have to surrender the car’s title as collateral.  

So, all you need to do is fill out the paperwork, meet with the lender and let them assess your car and lastly sign the agreement if you like the given offer. Once this is done, you will shortly receive your funds.  

The benefit of getting a registration loan near you vs applying for a car registration loan online is that you will get your money a lot quicker which is usually the point and why people take these loans in the first place.   

With that being said, you shouldn’t go with the first lender you find. A good lender will likely give you more time to pay the loan off, so that you may be able to have a loan refinance the next time as well. With that in mind, it may be well worth it to take your time and find a good lender.

How to Qualify for Car Registration Loans

To qualify for a car registration loan, you’ll most likely need to own your car outright. There should not be any outstanding loans or leases and you should have a clear title. While this is not always necessary, some lenders may only give you a loan if you meet this requirement.  

Same as with any other loan, you’ll also need to provide proof of income and residency, as well as a set of keys for the car. Some lenders may also require that you have full coverage auto insurance but that’s typically not needed.   

Additionally, you will of course need to have current vehicle registration and driver’s license in the state in which you live and provide accurate information about your car. This includes putting down the model, mileage, year, etc.  

What Are the Requirements for Car Registration Loans?

In order to apply here are things you must fulfill and provide:  

• You need to have a valid ID and driving license. 
• Names, phone numbers, and addresses of at least two valid references. 
• Working copies of the vehicle’s keys. 
• Recent pay stubs or other proof of ability to repay the loan. 
• Current vehicle registration. 
• Proof of vehicle insurance. 
• Working copies of the vehicle’s keys. 

If you are able to gather all of these the application process will be fairly easy and fast. Keep in mind that the amount you can get will also be based on your income and employment status, not just the value of the car. The amount varies but is typically between $200-$4,000. 

Car Registration Loan vs. Car Title Loan: What’s the Difference?

A car registration loan is a type of secured loan that uses your car’s registration as collateral. On the other hand, car title loans are another type of secured loan that uses your car as collateral. With this loan, the lender can take ownership of your car if you default on it.  

The key difference is that car registration loans are typically smaller in amount than car title loans. This is because, with a car title loan, the lender can easily seize your vehicle and sell it to recoup their losses.  

If you need a larger amount of money and don’t mind giving up ownership of your vehicle if you default on the loan, then a car title loan might be right for you. However, if you want to keep driving your car and only need a small amount of money, then a car registration loan might be a better option.  

Can I Apply for a Car Registration Loan with Bad Credit?

In case you have bad credit, you may still be able to apply for a car registration loan. Some lenders specialize in loans for people with bad credit. These lenders may be willing to work with you to get you the loan you need.  

Before you apply for a car registration loan with bad credit, there are a few things you should know. First, you will likely have to pay a higher interest rate than someone with good credit. Second, you may get a shorter repayment term as well. This is also because lenders see people with bad credit as a higher risk. 

Bottom Line

A car registration loan is a type of short-term loan that can be a great option if you need quick cash. You can borrow up to the value of your car and you don’t have to have good credit to qualify. The loan is secured by your car’s registration and you will get the money you need in as little as 24 hours.  

Before taking out a car registration loan be sure you will not be late on your payments. Additionally, take some time to understand how they work and what the risks are. This type of loan is not for everyone and it’s important to know what you’re getting into before signing on the dotted line.