I'm in the Raleigh area. Looking to pick up a used car in the Asheville area.
The only time I can go out there is weekends (when the dmv is closed)

Basic question: How do I get the car home?

Does it have to be inspected before I can even drive it?
Can I get a generic temporary tag beforehand (since I don't know for sure if I'm buying it) or does the tag have to be specifically for that car?

I've never had to pick up a used car so far so I'm just wondering what I need to do.

No, there isn't a temporary temporary tag.
Legally, it has to be tagged and insured before you drive it.
Are you buying from a dealer? If so, they will have the paper tags for you.

About the only thing you can legally do is ask the previous owner to leave his tag on it, drive it home, and either send the tag back to them, or turn it in for them and send them the receipt.

There is always the classic "Tag Stolen" cardboard in the back window lol