Can You Get a Car Loan If You’ve Just Started a New Job?

đŸ’Œ Can You Get a Car Loan If You’ve Just Changed Jobs?

Yes, but it’s more difficult. Lenders prefer applicants with stable employment, so if you’ve just started a new job, they may see you as a higher risk.

Your approval depends on:

✅ How long you’ve been in your new job
✅ Whether you stayed in the same industry
✅ Your overall financial stability

If you’ve had frequent job changes, lenders may require additional proof of income stability.

🔍 How Long Do You Need to Be in a Job Before Getting a Car Loan?

Different lenders have different requirements for job tenure.

Time in Job Approval Chances Lender’s View
✅ 12+ months Very High Considered stable—most lenders approve.
⚠ 6-12 months Moderate Some lenders may approve, depending on other financial factors.
❌ Less than 3 months Low High risk—most lenders will decline.
🚀 New Job but Same Industry (3+ months) Moderate More likely to be approved if staying in the same field.

If you’ve just started a job, waiting at least 3-6 months before applying can improve approval chances.

✅ How to Get a Car Loan If You’ve Just Started a New Job

If you’ve recently changed jobs, follow these steps to increase approval chances:

1ïžâƒŁ Show Proof of Employment – Provide a signed contract or payslips to prove stability.
2ïžâƒŁ Stay in the Same Industry – Lenders prefer applicants who move within the same field.
3ïžâƒŁ Maintain a Good Credit Score – A strong credit history can offset short job tenure.
4ïžâƒŁ Consider a Secured Loan – Using the car as collateral reduces lender risk.
5ïžâƒŁ Use a Finance Broker – A broker can find lenders that accept new job applicants.

If you have a strong financial profile, some lenders may still approve your car loan despite a short job history.

🚹 Can You Get a Car Loan While on Probation?

Yes, but it’s more difficult. Many lenders prefer applicants who have completed probation, which typically lasts 3-6 months.

If you’re on probation, you can improve your chances by:

✅ Applying after 3+ months of consistent income.
✅ Providing a contract showing long-term employment.
✅ Using a guarantor (if available).

If banks reject your application, a finance broker can help you find alternative lenders who approve new employees.

🚀 Why a Finance Broker Can Help If You’ve Just Started a Job

If banks reject your car loan due to recent job changes, a finance broker can help by:

✅ Finding lenders that accept applicants with new jobs.
✅ Matching you with a car loan that fits your employment history.
✅ Helping you avoid unnecessary credit checks that lower your score.

If you’ve recently changed jobs but need a car, don’t risk rejection! 🚗💹 A finance broker can help you get approved with the right lender.

If you’ve just started a new job but need a car loan, you still have options! A finance broker can match you with lenders who approve new employees.

 

DISCLAIMER

The information provided on this website is general in nature only and has been prepared without considering your financial needs, circumstances and objectives and should NOT be construed as financial, taxation or legal advice. For more information, get in touch with our experienced partner brokers today.

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All Your Questions Answered

What is a car loan and how does it work?

A car loan is a finance product where a lender provides funds for you to purchase a vehicle, which you repay over time with interest.

What’s the difference between secured and unsecured car loans?

Secured loans use the car as collateral, often leading to lower interest rates. Unsecured loans don’t, but usually have higher rates.

What loan terms are available for car finance?

Most car loans offer terms from 3 to 7 years. Find out what term suits you best.

How is interest calculated on a car loan?

Interest is based on the loan amount, term, and rate. Fixed-rate loans have predictable repayments, while variable rates can change.

Can I get a car loan for a private sale?

Yes, many lenders accept private sellers. You’ll need to provide extra documents.

Do government employees get lower interest rates on car loans?

Yes — many lenders offer better rates due to your stable income. Explore finance options for government employees.

Can I apply for a car loan while on probation?

Yes. Many workers are approved during probation.

What credit score do I need as a government employee?

A score of 650+ is ideal, but lower scores may still be considered.

Are corporate professionals eligible for low-rate finance?

Yes, especially if you're full-time with strong income.

Can I get car finance with a novated lease?

Yes, many government departments support novated leasing.

Can I get a car loan with no credit history?

Yes, it's still possible to get a car loan with no credit history.

What if I’ve been declined elsewhere?

A broker can help restructure your application for better results.

How do I check my credit score?

Use Equifax, Experian, or Illion for a free check.

Can I get finance if I have a current personal loan?

Yes, if your income supports both loans. A broker will assess your capacity.

What documents do I need to apply?

Typically: ID, payslips, and bank statements.

Can casual workers get car loans?

Yes, if you’ve worked consistently for 6+ months.

Can I apply if I’m self-employed with an ABN?

Yes. Consider a low-doc loan.

Can Centrelink be used as income?

Yes, when paired with PAYG income.

What’s the minimum income to qualify for car finance?

Most lenders prefer $30,000+ annually, but this varies.

Can I apply on a fixed-term contract?

Yes, especially if it’s government-backed.

Can I finance a used car?

Yes, most lenders allow used cars under 10 years old.

Can I get a loan for an SUV or family car?

Absolutely

Can I finance a caravan or motorbike?

Yes

Can I finance an EV or hybrid car?

Yes. You may even qualify for green car loan discounts.

Can I use my car for both work and personal use?

Yes you can.

What is a balloon payment?

It’s a lump sum due at the end of the loan term.

Can I make extra repayments?

Yes, many lenders allow this without penalty.

Can I pay off the loan early?

Yes — ask if there’s an early payout fee.

Is there a deposit required?

Not always.

What loan terms are available?

1 to 7 years is standard.

How long does approval take?

24–48 hours in most cases

Can I apply online?

Yes — most lenders and brokers accept online applications.

Is a broker better than going direct?

Often, yes. They can compare lenders for you.

Can I get pre-approved?

Yes — and it gives you better negotiating power at the dealership.

What happens after I apply?

Your documents are reviewed, and if approved, the lender issues funds to the seller.

Can I get a loan with a visa?

Yes, in some cases. see finance for visa holders here.

Do I need a driver’s licence to apply?

Yes, but learners may qualify with a co-applicant.

Can I apply with someone else?

Yes, joint applications are allowed.

Can I refinance my current car loan?

Yes — it can lower your repayments or get you a better rate.

Can I trade in my old car as a deposit?

Yes, many lenders accept trade-ins toward the deposit.

Can nurses get car finance?

Yes — see nurse-specific finance tips.

Can teachers apply while on contract?

Yes. Read how to get approved.

Do defence personnel get special car loan rates?

Yes, in some cases. Your job security is a major advantage.

Can FIFO government workers apply?

Yes — consistency in income matters more than job location.

Can I apply if I’m on maternity leave?

Yes, especially if you’re returning to work. Here’s how.

Can I use car finance to buy interstate?

Yes — just make sure the seller provides all required documents.

Can I finance a car from an auction?

Yes, but only through select lenders. Ask your broker first.

Will applying hurt my credit score?

Only if you apply to multiple lenders directly. Brokers help protect your score.

Can I get a car loan if I’ve been bankrupt before?

Yes — see bad credit car loan options.

What if I want to upgrade my car before the loan ends?

You can sell the car, pay off the loan early, or refinance.