Kentucky Truck Sales Tax Calculator (2026)
Estimate Kentucky truck sales tax in seconds. Enter your sale price and we apply the flat statewide rate; the calculator returns state tax, local surtax, title transfer fee, and total out-the-door cost for a private party sale.
Kentucky Truck Sales Tax Calculator
Estimate state tax, local surtax, and total cost for a private truck sale in Kentucky.
Estimated total tax
$900.00
6.00% combined rate
Motor vehicle usage tax applies to all sales
Flat 6% motor vehicle usage tax statewide
Estimate only. KY DMV may calculate tax from the higher of purchase price or book value. Confirm exact rates with your county tax assessor before transfer.
How Kentucky taxes private truck sales
Kentucky applies a flat 6% sales tax on private party truck transactions statewide. Flat 6% motor vehicle usage tax statewide. Motor vehicle usage tax applies to all sales.
Who pays the tax
In Kentucky the buyer pays the truck 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 15 days of the sale date. Kentucky 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 — confirm with the Kentucky DMV at title transfer.
Late penalties
Filing the title transfer beyond the 15-day window typically triggers a late fee plus monthly interest on the unpaid tax. The Kentucky DMV may also block registration renewals until the back tax is paid. File on time — the calculator above shows the exact amount owed.
Notary requirement
Kentucky requires the bill of sale to be notarized before the DMV will process the title transfer. Have both parties sign in front of a notary public.
Compare truck sales tax across states
See how Kentucky stacks up against the five lowest- and highest-tax states for a private truck purchase. Tap any state to open its calculator.
5 lowest sales-tax states
5 highest sales-tax states
- Arkansas11.63%
- Louisiana11.45%
- California10.50%
- Kansas10.50%
- Washington10.40%
Kentucky truck sales tax FAQ
How much is sales tax on a truck in Kentucky?
Kentucky charges a flat 6% on private truck sales statewide. Motor vehicle usage tax applies to all sales.
Who pays sales tax on a private truck sale in Kentucky?
In Kentucky the buyer pays the truck 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 Kentucky truck sales tax due?
Tax is due within 15 days of the sale date. Kentucky late-titling penalties typically begin once that window closes — interest accrues monthly on unpaid tax.
Are there any Kentucky sales-tax exemptions for truck transfers?
Gift transfers between immediate family members may qualify for a sales-tax exemption — confirm with the Kentucky DMV at title transfer.
What is the title transfer fee in Kentucky?
The Kentucky title transfer fee is $9. 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 truck sale?
Create a printable Kentucky truck bill of sale in minutes. It is required at the DMV to register your purchase and document the taxable amount.
Create your Kentucky 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.