Moving to the United States to begin your nursing career is an incredible achievement and a big adjustment. Between getting settled, learning new systems, and finding your way around, transportation quickly becomes essential. 

For most international nurses, especially those working under EB-3 or H-1B visas, owning a car makes everyday life easier, whether it’s getting to work, grocery shopping, or exploring your new community. This simple, step-by-step guide breaks down exactly how to buy a car in the U.S. and drive off the lot with confidence. 

Step 1: Get Your U.S. Driver’s License (If You Haven’t Yet) 

If you’re still using an international license, you’ll eventually need a U.S. driver’s license to meet state requirements and get better insurance rates. Visit your local DMV and prepare for: 

• A written knowledge test 
• A road (driving) test 
• Proof of identity, visa status, and residence 

Check your state DMV website for specific rules and scheduling options. 

Step 2: Gather Your Required Documents 

Before you start shopping, collect all the paperwork you’ll need for financing, registration, and insurance. Having these ready makes the process faster and smoother. 

You’ll need: 

• Valid Passport with your U.S. Visa stamp 
• I-94 Arrival/Departure Record (download from i94.cbp.dhs.gov) 
• Form I-797 (Approval Notice for H-1B or EB-3) 
• Social Security Number (SSN) or proof of application 
• U.S. Driver’s License or International Driver’s Permit (some dealers accept foreign licenses) 
• Proof of Address such as a lease or utility bill 
• Employment Verification Letter and/or Pay Stubs 

You’ll need many of these same documents later for registration and insurance, so keep them together in one folder. 

Step 3: Set a Realistic Budget 

Setting a clear budget helps narrow your options and prevents surprises. Think about all costs that are involved and not just the sticker price. This includes: 

• Down payment: Usually 10–20% of the total price 
• Monthly loan payments 
• Insurance, fuel, and maintenance costs 

There are also great tools out there to help estimate your payments like an Auto Loan Calculator or the U.S. Bank Car Payment Calculator. 

Step 4: Decide Between a New or Used Car 

Next, you’ll need to decide whether you want to buy new or used based on your priorities and budget. 

New Car Advantages: 

• Manufacturer warranty coverage 
• Latest safety and technology features 

Used Car Advantages: 

• Lower purchase price 
• Slower depreciation 

You should also compare fair market prices and reliability ratings at Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds. 

Step 5: Get Preapproved for Financing (Optional but Recommended) 

If you plan to finance your car, especially if you don’t have U.S. credit yet, getting preapproved helps you know what you can afford and strengthens your bargaining position. Here are a few options to consider if you don’t have credit yet: 

• International AutoSource (IAS) – A trusted program designed for international professionals. (Worldwide HealthStaff Solutions partners with IAS to make this process easier for nurses.) 
• International-friendly lenders like BMO Harris, Stilt, or Nova Credit 
• Dealership financing (convenient but often higher interest) 
• Bank or credit union loans with a co-signer who has U.S. credit 

Step 6: Shop Around and Test Drive 

Once you’ve set your budget and financing, it’s time to explore your options. Visit different dealerships or browse online platforms like: 

• CarMax 
• Carvana 
• Autotrader 
• Local car dealers in your area 

Schedule test drives to compare comfort, performance, and condition. Above all else, trust your instincts; you know what is best for you, and buying a car is a big moment. 

Step 7: Review the Vehicle History (For Used Cars) 

If you’re buying a used car, reviewing its history is one of the most important steps you can take. A vehicle history report helps you understand how the car has been maintained and whether it has been in any accidents. Reputable services like CARFAX and AutoCheck provide detailed information about a car’s background. 

Carefully review the report for signs of previous accidents, major repairs, or mileage discrepancies. Also, confirm that the vehicle has a clean title, meaning it hasn’t been declared “salvaged” due to serious damage. Spending a little extra time here can save you from costly surprises later. 

Step 8: Negotiate the Price 

Negotiation is a normal and expected part of buying a car in the U.S., so don’t be afraid to ask for better terms. Once you’ve chosen a vehicle, use your research to justify your offer. Be polite but firm when discussing the price, and don’t hesitate to walk away if the deal doesn’t feel right. 

You can negotiate not just the car’s price but also the interest rate, warranty coverage, or added perks such as free oil changes or accessories. Always ask for the “out-the-door” price, which includes all taxes, fees, and dealer charges. This approach ensures you know exactly what you’ll be paying before signing anything. 

Step 9: Complete the Purchase 

After finalizing negotiations, you’ll move on to completing the purchase. This step involves signing a sales contract that outlines the details of the agreement. Review the contract carefully to confirm the total price, including taxes and fees, and verify that the loan terms, interest rate, and any warranties or return policies are clearly stated. 

Once everything looks accurate, make your down payment and obtain copies of all signed documents for your records. It’s important to store these safely as you’ll need them for registration, insurance, and future reference. 

Step 10: Register and Insure Your Car 

In order to legally drive your new car in the U.S., you must register it and get insurance. You’ll need to: 

1. Register your car at your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) 
2. Show proof of insurance (mandatory in most states) 
3. Ask if your dealer handles registration for you or if you’ll need to visit the DMV yourself 

Compare quotes from different insurance providers since rates can vary based on your visa status, location, and driving history. 

Bonus Tips for Success 

After buying your car, there are a few extra things to keep in mind that can help you save time, money, and stress. These quick tips will make your car ownership experience easier and help you avoid common mistakes first-time buyers often make.

• Pay in cash if possible—it simplifies everything and avoids interest 
• Read every document carefully before signing 
• Avoid private sellers unless you’re confident in checking the car’s title and condition 

Support Every Step of the Way 

Buying a car is one of the first major steps toward independence in your new life in the U.S., but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Worldwide HealthStaff Solutions, we’ve helped thousands of international nurses transition smoothly into their new roles and communities. Through trusted partnerships and personalized relocation guidance, we make sure you have the support you need every step of the way. 



Your journey to a rewarding nursing career in the United States doesn’t end when you arrive; it begins with the confidence that you have a team standing beside you. With Worldwide HealthStaff, you can focus on what you do best: caring for others, while we help take care of the rest.