Generally speaking, the most important factors in any loan application are your creditworthiness and income, but you also need to consider the vehicle you want to buy, down payment, etc. before applying. Take several steps to increase your chances of getting approval. These are called car loan requirements- to qualify and get approved for a car loan.

Car Loan Requirements

Most lenders are required to meet some or all of the following conditions to qualify for a car loan:

  1. High credit
  2. Fixed income
  3. Low debt-to-income ratio (DTI)
  4. Qualified cars
  5. Government-issued ID cards
  6. Qualified residents
  7. Office or business phone
  8. Individuals Recommendation
  9. Down payment or exchange

High credit

The credit rating required for a car loan depends on the lender you apply for. Although car loans apply to all types of credit, it is very likely that you can at least get a good credit rating-a credit rating of 670 or higher. If your credit rating is 600 or even 500, you can still get a car loan, but you have fewer options and higher interest rates.

Fixed income

You cannot get a car loan if you do not prove that your income can cover the monthly payment. Some require full-time work, while others agree to part-time or state benefits. The following documents serve as proof:

  • Last pay slip
  • Form W2
  • Social security or social security certificate
  • Bank statement
  • Last tax return

As a self-employed person, if you meet the conditions, you may need to submit Other documents to prove your income.

Lower DTI

Lenders generally seek leverage (DTI) below 43%. This means that your monthly debt and bill payments are less than 43% of your total monthly income. Although lenders usually do not promote this as a requirement, most people will consider this and set the highest DTI standard for all applicants.

Qualified cars

Your lender may have restrictions on the brand and model of funds. When buying a used car, you must also meet the mileage and age requirements of the vehicle. Generally speaking, the mileage of a vehicle cannot exceed 100,000 miles or more than 10 years, although it depends on the lender.

Government-issued identification documents

Federal law requires creditors to verify their identity by verifying government-issued identification documents. Usually, you apply for a driving license, permit or non-driving license issued by DMV. You can also use a passport or other ID issued by the local government.

Qualified residents

Does the passport or other form of identification that you use don’t include your address? The lender usually needs proof of address, such as a B. electricity bill, to prove that you live in the corresponding state.

Business phone number

Most lenders require you to provide a mandatory phone number when you apply. Like DTI, you won’t find it in most authorization lists. But usually, if you don’t have a phone number, you won’t even be able to fill out the pre-qualification form, let alone apply.

If necessary, the lender is happy to use this information to contact you. The lack of a phone number also seems to lack stability to the lender, which is likely to invalidate your loan eligibility.

Personal recommendation letters

Some lenders rarely ask for the names and contact information of people who can prove they are trustworthy. The people you can choose may be restricted; sometimes family members are not allowed.

Down payment or exchange

Although you can get 100% of new car financing, many lenders require a down payment, usually starting at around 10%, although a 20% down payment is usually cheaper or higher.

What is the lender still considering?

In addition to strict approval requirements, the following factors will also affect your application:

  • Where will you buy the vehicle: Lenders usually prefer vehicles purchased directly from dealers. They often charge higher fees.
  • New and used: The interest rate of second-hand car loans is often higher than that of new car loans.
  • Loan amount and duration: In particular, credit unions provide different interest rates based on your loan amount and duration.
  • General credit profile: In addition to your reputation, the lender will also consider factors such as the amount of debt in your name and the length of your credit history.

Car Loan Requirements: The Bottom Line

Most lenders want to make sure that you have good credit, low debt and income to repay the loan. Usually, you need to prove that your financial situation is stable enough to be able to make payments on time. Check out for a car loan guide and apply now.


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Disclaimer: This article is intended to provide general information only for educational purpose. It does not consider the financial situation or needs of readers and should not be interpreted as a recommendation for any financial product. Before making a decision based on this information, you should consider seeking financial advice.