The basic steps to order a Tesla Model 3 online

You order a Tesla Model 3 directly from Tesla's website — there are no dealerships. Go to tesla.com, select Model 3, choose your configuration (color, wheels, interior, and features), enter your payment and delivery information, and place your order. Tesla will then assign you a delivery window, usually several weeks out, and send you updates by email as your car moves through production and preparation.

The entire process happens online. You do not need to visit a showroom to complete the order, though you can schedule a test drive at a Tesla location before ordering if you want to see and sit in the car first. Once you place the order, you can modify or cancel it through your Tesla account for a period of time — the exact window depends on how far along your car is in production.

Key Takeaways

  • You order through tesla.com by selecting your configuration and payment method; there is no separate dealer network.
  • Tesla assigns a delivery window after you order, typically several weeks later, and sends email updates as your car is built.
  • You can modify or cancel your order through your Tesla account before production reaches certain stages.
  • Delivery involves a final walkthrough of your car at a Tesla location or, in some regions, delivery to your home.
  • The total price includes the base vehicle cost, any upgrades you selected, destination charges, and applicable taxes and fees.

What you need before you start ordering

Have your driver's license or ID ready, along with proof of your current address. You will also need a payment method — either a credit card to place the order, or financing information if you plan to finance through Tesla or bring your own loan from a bank or credit union. If you are trading in a vehicle, gather the title and current mileage.

You do not need to have insurance lined up before ordering, but you will need it before you take delivery. Some people arrange insurance after they receive their delivery appointment, since you will know the exact date by then. If you are financing, your lender may require proof of insurance before they release funds.

Choosing your configuration and price

Tesla offers the Model 3 in different versions — Standard Range Plus, Long Range, and Performance — each with different battery range and acceleration. Within each version, you can choose exterior color, wheel style and size, interior material, and add-ons like enhanced autopilot or full self-driving capability. The website shows the price update in real time as you make each selection.

The price you see includes the base vehicle and any upgrades, plus a destination charge (currently around $1,200, though this varies by region). It does not include taxes, registration, or dealer documentation fees — those are added at delivery based on your state and local rules. Some states offer tax credits or rebates for electric vehicles; the Tesla website will show you whether your state qualifies and what the credit is worth.

How payment and financing work

You can pay in full with a credit card or bank transfer, or you can finance through Tesla's lending partners. If you finance, you will enter your income, employment, and credit information on the order page, and Tesla will show you estimated monthly payments for different loan terms. You can also bring your own financing from a bank or credit union — in that case, you still place the order on Tesla's site, but you arrange the loan separately and bring the funds to delivery.

A deposit is required to hold your order. The deposit amount varies but is typically refundable if you cancel before your car enters production. Once production begins, cancellation policies become stricter, so read the terms carefully when you place your order. Your Tesla account will show your order status and let you know when you have entered production.

Understanding the delivery timeline and process

After you order, Tesla assigns you a delivery window — this might be four weeks out, eight weeks out, or longer depending on the configuration you chose and current production capacity. You will receive email updates as your car is built and prepared. About a week before your delivery date, Tesla will contact you to confirm the time and location.

Delivery happens at a Tesla Service Center or, in some regions, at your home. At the Service Center, a Tesla representative will walk you through the car, explain the controls, verify the condition, and answer questions. You will sign paperwork, provide proof of insurance, and complete the payment or financing. Then you drive away in your new car. If delivery is to your home, a similar walkthrough happens there, though the process is slightly different.

What to do if you want to modify or cancel your order

You can change your configuration or cancel through your Tesla account as long as your car has not entered production. Once production starts, your options narrow — you may still be able to cancel, but you could lose your deposit depending on how far along the car is. Tesla will tell you clearly in your account whether changes are still possible.

If you need to delay your delivery date, contact Tesla through your account or call the number in your order confirmation. They can usually move your delivery window if production has not started, or work with you if it has. Cancellations are handled the same way — through your account or by contacting Tesla directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I test drive a Model 3 before I order?

Yes. Visit tesla.com, find the location nearest you, and schedule a test drive. You can drive the car for about 20 to 30 minutes. Many people do this before ordering to make sure they like how it feels and handles. A test drive does not commit you to an order.

What happens if I want to cancel after my car is already being built?

Cancellation policies depend on how far production has progressed. Early cancellations may be fully refundable; later ones may result in losing your deposit. Your Tesla account shows your production status and will tell you whether cancellation is still an option. Contact Tesla directly if you are unsure.

Do I have to pick up my car, or can it be delivered to my home?

It depends on your region. Some areas offer home delivery; others require pickup at a Service Center. Tesla will show you the delivery options available for your address during the order process. You can choose which one works for you.

What if my financing falls through after I order?

If you are financing through Tesla and your process is denied, you can still complete the purchase with a different payment method or financing source. If you brought your own financing and your lender backs out, contact Tesla when ready — you may be able to switch to Tesla financing or arrange alternative funding before your delivery date.

Can I order a Model 3 if I live outside the United States?

Tesla sells Model 3 in many countries, but the ordering process and available configurations vary by region. Visit the Tesla website for your country to see what is available and how to order locally. Pricing, taxes, and delivery timelines differ significantly by location.