Short answer
You can buy a car with little or no US credit history. Besides a credit score, a lender can look at your income, how long you have held your job and address, and the size of your down payment. Some buyers apply with a co-signer. Credit history from another country usually does not appear on a US credit report.
On the lot now
How can I buy without US credit?
- CashNo loan, no approval.
- In your nameThe lender decides each application.
- With a co-signerYou are both responsible for the whole loan.
- With an ITINLenders that accept an ITIN; on approved credit (OAC).
First-time buyer programs? Ask the finance office what is available today.
What should I bring?
- Driver's license
- Proof of incomePay stubs or bank statements.
- Proof of residence
- Proof of insurance
- ITIN letterIf you apply with an ITIN.
How do I build US credit?
- 1Secured credit cardUse it lightly.
- 2Pay on timeEvery time. It matters most.
- 3Check your reportFree at AnnualCreditReport.com.
Frequently asked questions
Can I finance with an ITIN?
Yes. Our finance office works with lenders that accept an ITIN instead of a Social Security number. Approval is up to the lender, on approved credit (OAC). Bring your ITIN letter plus the usual documents.
What do lenders look at when I have no credit score?
Your income and how you can document it, how long you have been at your job and address, the size of your down payment, and the vehicle's price compared with its value.
Can I use my credit history from another country?
It usually does not appear on a US credit report. Ask the finance office whether any lender will look at a credit history from abroad.
Do I need a co-signer?
Not always. A co-signer helps when your US credit history is thin, but you are both responsible for the whole loan, and a late payment hurts both credit reports.
How much down payment do I need?
There is no single amount for everyone. Borrowing less means less risk for the lender, but it depends on the lender, the vehicle and your whole application.
How do I start building US credit?
Open one account that reports to the credit bureaus, such as a secured credit card, and use it lightly. Pay on time every time, don't open several accounts at once, and check your credit report free at AnnualCreditReport.com.
Does a car loan help build credit?
Yes, when every payment is on time and the lender reports it to the credit bureaus.
Can I get help in my language?
Yes. At Stewart Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Colma, Silvio sells in English and Spanish, and team members can help in Tagalog, Portuguese, Ukrainian, Russian and Georgian.
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