Delivery guide · Updated January 1970
What to bring to Tesla delivery day
Delivery day is exciting, but a forgotten ID or missing insurance card can turn a quick pickup into a long wait. I put this list together from my own delivery experience and from walking through pickups with other buyers on test drives and delivery day visits. It is a simple packing checklist so you can focus on the car, not the paperwork.
TL;DR
- Bring your ID, proof of insurance, and payment or loan paperwork.
- Have the Tesla app installed, signed in, and paired with the car before you accept.
- Pack a flashlight, microfiber cloth, printed checklist, and a phone charger.
- Compare the VIN on the car to the MVPA and the app.
- Ask about the Due Bill process and get any promise in writing.
Physical items to bring
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Physical items to bring
0/6Documents and IDs
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Documents and IDs
0/6App and account checks
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App and account checks
0/5Questions to ask at handoff
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Questions to ask at handoff
0/5FAQ
Do I need to print anything for Tesla delivery?
Not always, but I recommend it. A printed checklist and the Motor Vehicle Purchase Agreement keep you from fumbling with your phone while walking around the car. Some delivery centers also have spotty cell service in garages.
What ID is required to pick up a Tesla?
Bring a valid driver's license matching the name on the order and a second form of ID if your state requires it. If someone else is accepting delivery, confirm Tesla's authorization process ahead of time.
Should I bring a charging cable?
You don't need one to drive the car off the lot. Most new Teslas include a Mobile Connector, but check your order details. If your first stop is home, a destination charger or Supercharger is fine for the initial drive.
Does Tesla provide temporary registration and plates?
Usually yes. Most deliveries include a temporary registration and either a paper plate or a real plate depending on your state. Verify in advance so you know what to look for before leaving.
Can I refuse delivery if something is wrong?
You can ask the delivery advisor to document any issue and fix it before acceptance, but Tesla's policy on refusing or swapping a VIN has tightened over time. Get any promised repair written into a Due Bill before you sign.
Before you tap Order
Whether you are still configuring or picking up next week, run through this list one more time before placing (or finalizing) the order:
- • Trim, wheels, paint, and interior are locked in - these are hard to change later.
- • Financing lined up (Tesla quote vs credit union) and any trade-in valued.
- • State and utility incentives checked for your ZIP.
- • Home charging plan in motion (NEMA 14-50 or Wall Connector).
- • Open the referral link on the device you'll order from, right before tapping Order.
Referral disclosure: If you use my referral link for an eligible purchase, Tesla may provide a buyer benefit to you and may provide referral credits or another benefit to me. I do not charge you for using the link. Tesla determines eligibility and benefits.
Related reading: master pre-order checklist, printable delivery inspection checklist, delivery day overview, and the Model Y overview.