Auto Loan Preapproval

Gather the following information to submit with your application:

• Contact information for applicant and co-applicant (phone number and email)
• Current housing, employment, and income information for applicant and co-applicant
• Trade-in information (title or loan information, registration, etc.)
• Amount you expect to finance (including vehicle purchase price, taxes, tags, title, and warranty, less any down payment)
• Length (term) of the loan you want
• Check out our auto rates and loan options

Keep in mind that preapprovals are only accepted by dealerships and can't be used for purchase through a private seller.

Submit your application.

After submitting your application, you'll receive a text message* or email letting you know if you were preapproved for the amount you requested.

Disclosure: Credit and collateral subject to approval. Message and data rates may apply. Terms and conditions are available. We understand that when shopping for a car, you can't always wait around for a decision. That's why we typically provide auto loan decisions in minutes.

Receive your loan check.

Once you've been preapproved, we'll issue a check with your funds. You can pick it up at your nearest engagement center (hyperlink) or have it mailed to your home.

The amount on the check is how much you've been approved for--but you don't have to use it all.

You'll only be responsible for the amount you're applying toward the car.

Take the loan check to the dealer when you're ready to buy.

Be sure the loan check is completed and signed when you're ready to purchase your vehicle.

Send us the title.

Once you pay the seller, ensure the title is received by FirstLight Federal Credit Union within 90 days of purchase

Getting preapproved for a car loan means that a lender has already approved you for a particular loan amount and interest rate. Examine your budget to account for your income and current monthly obligations to get an accurate picture of how much you can spend on a vehicle.

By being preapproved by 2 or more lenders, you could compare the different loan offers, potentially leading to a more favorable interest rate and a clear understanding of monthly payments.

With preapproval, you could have an edge before you visit the dealership or shop online. It can make it easier to negotiate a better sales price and let you know what you can spend.