[header] How to buy a turtle [title] Purchase from a reputable seller. [step] Look for clean facilities with healthy-looking animals and readily available documentation regarding the breeds of turtles offered. [substeps] Well-established pet stores are usually safe choices, although the selection of species they offer may be limited. 
Private sellers and breeders are another option, but should be dealt with more cautiously. The illegal sale of wild turtles is surprisingly common.