To legally transfer ownership and register the vehicle in your home state, you must obtain the following from the seller at the time of purchase:

: The seller must sign the back of the title and complete the assignment portion. If there are multiple owners listed with "and," both must sign; if "or" is used, only one signature is required.

: This is required for vehicles seven model years or newer. 2. Sales Tax and Fees

If you plan to drive the vehicle back to your home state, you need a legal way to operate it: How to Sell a Vehicle - Iowa Department of Transportation

: For vehicles model year 2011 or newer, the odometer reading must be accurately completed on the back of the title.

You generally do pay Iowa's 5% "fee for new registration" (their version of sales tax) if you are a non-resident moving the vehicle out of state immediately.

: If a dealer does collect Iowa tax, keep the receipt. Most states offer a credit for taxes paid to another state, but you may still owe the difference if your home state's rate is higher. 3. Driving the Car Home

Buying a vehicle in Iowa to take back to your home state involves specific documentation and temporary transit steps to ensure you stay legal while driving across state lines.