Getting prequalified is the first step in shopping for your next vehicle. But once you have your prequalification in hand, what comes next? We’ll walk you through how to use your Credit Acceptance prequalification at a dealer, how much time you have before it expires, and how it can strengthen your negotiations.

1. Visit your dealer matches

After completing our online prequalification process, you’ll receive up to three recommended dealerships in your area. These are participating dealers in the nationwide Credit Acceptance network near you who will contact you shortly after pre-qualifying.

You may also see any participating dealer within the 30-day window, though. Remember, only the participating dealers found here can use your prequalification to begin the Credit Acceptance application process.

2. Bring the necessary documentation

Your prequalification gives the dealer a starting point, but they’ll still need to verify your information. Bringing everything needed saves time and helps you move forward without hiccups.

Most dealers will ask to see:

• A valid driver’s license

• Proof of insurance

• Proof of income and residence

• A vehicle title or pay-off letter (if you’re trading in your current vehicle)

Depending on your situation, the dealer may ask for additional documentation. Being prepared ensures there are no surprises.

3. Use your prequalification as a negotiation tool

Arriving at the dealership with a Credit Acceptance prequalification doesn’t just clarify your budget; it strengthens your negotiating position.

Because you already know your maximum pre-qualified monthly payment, you can focus on what’s doable — or haggle to put a vehicle you want within your reach. Dealers often expect pre-qualified customers to negotiate on both the price of the vehicle and the value of a trade-in, just as a cash buyer would.

Here are a few best practices to help you get the most from your visit:

• When visiting a participating Credit Acceptance dealership, let them know you have been pre-qualified. However, there is no referral code or letter to print and bring with you, instead, the dealer will collect your information.

• Research your current vehicle’s trade-in value using resources such as Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds, so you know what it’s worth before you arrive

• Discuss your trade-in first, separately from the price of the new vehicle, to avoid shifting numbers between the two

• Consider getting multiple trade-in offers to compare and confidently negotiate

With your prequalification already taken care of, you have the freedom to walk away if the offer doesn’t feel right. That flexibility alone can make negotiation easier.

4. Begin the final phase of approval

After choosing your vehicle, you’ll complete the financing process. This occurs when the dealer structures the deal and submits the application through Credit Acceptance’s system.

Once the contract is approved and completed, your monthly payments will be made to Credit Acceptance, and you’ll have multiple ways to manage your account going forward.