California Car Sales Tax Calculator (2026)
Estimate California car sales tax in seconds. Enter your sale price and pick your county-rate tier; the calculator returns state tax, local surtax, title transfer fee, and total out-the-door cost for a private party sale.
California Car Sales Tax Calculator
Estimate state tax, local surtax, and total cost for a private car sale in California.
Estimated total tax
$1,125.00
7.50% combined rate
Use tax applies to private party purchases at the same rate
7.25% base; county/city adds 0.25–3.25% (total up to 10.75%)
Estimate only. CA DMV may calculate tax from the higher of purchase price or book value. Confirm exact rates with your county tax assessor before transfer.
How California taxes private car sales
California charges a 7.25% state sales tax on private party car purchases, plus a county-level surtax that ranges from 0.25% to 3.25% depending on where the buyer registers. 7.25% base; county/city adds 0.25–3.25% (total up to 10.75%). Combined effective rates fall between 7.50% and 10.50%.
Who pays the tax
In California the buyer pays the car sales tax at the time of title transfer — it is collected by the DMV (or equivalent agency) when the buyer registers the vehicle. The seller does not collect tax in a private party sale.
When the tax is due
Tax is due within 10 days of the sale date. California late-titling penalties typically begin once that window closes — interest accrues monthly on unpaid tax.
Exemptions and gift transfers
Gift transfers between immediate family members may qualify for a sales-tax exemption — file CDTFA-111 with the bill of sale at title transfer.
CDTFA-111 — official California form
Late penalties
Filing the title transfer beyond the 10-day window typically triggers a late fee plus monthly interest on the unpaid tax. The California DMV may also block registration renewals until the back tax is paid. File on time — the calculator above shows the exact amount owed.
Compare car sales tax across states
See how California stacks up against the five lowest- and highest-tax states for a private car purchase. Tap any state to open its calculator.
5 lowest sales-tax states
5 highest sales-tax states
- Arkansas11.63%
- Louisiana11.45%
- Kansas10.50%
- Washington10.40%
- Illinois10.25%
California car sales tax FAQ
How much is sales tax on a car in California?
California charges 7.25% state tax plus a county surtax (typically 0.25% to 3.25%). Combined rates run roughly 7.50% to 10.50% on the purchase price.
Who pays sales tax on a private car sale in California?
In California the buyer pays the car sales tax at the time of title transfer — it is collected by the DMV (or equivalent agency) when the buyer registers the vehicle. The seller does not collect tax in a private party sale.
When is California car sales tax due?
Tax is due within 10 days of the sale date. California late-titling penalties typically begin once that window closes — interest accrues monthly on unpaid tax.
Are there any California sales-tax exemptions for car transfers?
Gift transfers between immediate family members may qualify for a sales-tax exemption — file CDTFA-111 with the bill of sale at title transfer.
What is the title transfer fee in California?
The California title transfer fee is $23. This is collected at the time of title transfer in addition to any sales tax owed. Use the calculator above to see fees plus tax on your sale price.
Ready to close the car sale?
Create a printable California car bill of sale in minutes. It is required at the DMV to register your purchase and document the taxable amount.
Create your California bill of saleRelated resources
Informational purposes only. This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws vary by state and individual circumstances differ. Consult a licensed attorney for jurisdiction-specific guidance on vehicle transfers, title requirements, or related legal matters.