Iowa Title Transfer Fees & Vehicle Taxes
When buying or selling a car privately in Iowa, the buyer is responsible for all DMV fees at the time of registration. The total out-of-pocket cost includes the title transfer fee, sales tax, and registration fee.
Iowa Vehicle Transfer Fee Summary
Note: Sales tax and use tax are paid at the DMV during registration — not at the time of the private sale. County-level taxes may apply on top of state rates.
Iowa Additional Notes
- ›One-time 5% registration fee instead of sales tax
- ›Title transfer processed at county treasurer office
- ›Damage disclosure statement required
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the title transfer fee in Iowa?▾
The Iowa title transfer fee is $25. This is paid by the buyer at the DMV when completing the transfer, and does not include sales tax or registration fees.
What is the sales tax rate on vehicles in Iowa?▾
Iowa vehicle sales tax: 5% one-time registration fee on purchase price.
Who pays the sales tax in a Iowa private car sale?▾
In Iowa, the buyer pays the vehicle sales tax at registration — not at the time of the sale. The tax is assessed when the buyer visits the DMV to transfer the title and register the vehicle.
Create your Iowa bill of sale for free
Create Bill of Sale — Free →More Iowa guides
- How to Transfer a Car Title in Iowa
- How to Write a Bill of Sale in Iowa
- Iowa Bill of Sale Requirements
- How to Sell a Car Privately in Iowa
- Does Iowa Require Notarization for a Bill of Sale?
- Iowa car bill of sale generator
- Iowa bill of sale (all vehicles)
- Title Transfer Fees & Taxes — all states
- All bill of sale guides