This is a very exciting time in a teenager's life as they take a major step towards independence. While this is very much true, it is also the perfect opportunity for a parent or guardian to teach a teenager repsonsiblity.

The first step should be to determine expenses, as in who will take care of gas, insurance and basic auto maintenance. While this does not have to be written in stone, it is best for both the parent and child to see what kind of figures they are looking at every month.

The next would be the kind of car. As times are tight these days, everyone involved should be realistic as to what purpose will the extra vehicle serve and what make, model, body and most important - price.  Will it be paid in full or will financing be necessary?

These few factors should be determined before you visit any car lots or a private salesperson. Communication should also be established as well as telling your child (especially your daughter) how to observe sales transactions. Your daughter should be especially aware of the fact that salespeople and mechanics will try to take advantage of any female most of the time. Teach these young women how to be on their guard - even if they don't know the answers right away.

If you have an unusually picky daughter who will not come to any sort of realisitic agreement when buying a car, let her know firmly that she can buy her own and take care of automobile expenses as well.