It may as well be named as part of the American Dream. Owning a car means you have the freedom to go where you want when you want. Of course, you still have to buy gas.

• Buying a New Car

  Car dealerships are located in cities and towns everywhere. You will need to determine how much money you can spend on a car before you go. Remember that a new car loses value the moment you drive it away from the dealership. You will not be able to sell it for as much as you paid. Also new cars are often very expensive to own, maintain, and insure.

• Buying a Used Car from a Dealership

  If you don't want to pay for a new car, you can look into buying a used car (which are now often referred to as "pre-owned vehicles" for marketing purposes). There are over 20,000 used car dealerships in the United States, and you should have no problem locating one near you. While used cars are much less expensive, be sure that you have a mechanic look at it before you buy it (if the dealer won't let you take it to a mechanic, don't buy the car!). If you are still concerned about the quality of the car, see if your state has a "lemon law." Lemon laws (bad used cars are called "lemons") provide certain protections to consumers after the purchase of a used car. Also, ask about warranties.

• Buying a Used Car from an Individual

  Many students buy cars from individuals rather than dealerships. There are advantages and disadvantages to this type of sale. You may pay much less for a car by purchasing it from a private citizen, but you will not get a warranty. Make sure that you are not paying too much for a car. You can check the "bluebook" value of a car Click here for information about auto insurance.

  Driver's License

  You must have a valid driver's license to operate a car. Click here for information about getting a driver's license.