Maryland Car Sales Tax Calculator (2026)
Estimate Maryland car 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.
Maryland Car Sales Tax Calculator
Estimate state tax, local surtax, and total cost for a private car sale in Maryland.
Estimated total tax
$900.00
6.00% combined rate
Excise tax applies to all vehicle sales
Flat 6% excise tax on purchase price or fair market value
Estimate only. MD DMV may calculate tax from the higher of purchase price or book value. Confirm exact rates with your county tax assessor before transfer.
How Maryland taxes private car sales
Maryland applies a flat 6% sales tax on private party car transactions statewide. Flat 6% excise tax on purchase price or fair market value. Excise tax applies to all vehicle sales.
Who pays the tax
In Maryland 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 60 days of the sale date. Maryland 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 VR-103 with the bill of sale at title transfer.
Late penalties
Filing the title transfer beyond the 60-day window typically triggers a late fee plus monthly interest on the unpaid tax. The Maryland 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
Maryland 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 car sales tax across states
See how Maryland 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%
- California10.50%
- Kansas10.50%
- Washington10.40%
Maryland car sales tax FAQ
How much is sales tax on a car in Maryland?
Maryland charges a flat 6% on private car sales statewide. Excise tax applies to all vehicle sales.
Who pays sales tax on a private car sale in Maryland?
In Maryland 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 Maryland car sales tax due?
Tax is due within 60 days of the sale date. Maryland late-titling penalties typically begin once that window closes — interest accrues monthly on unpaid tax.
Are there any Maryland sales-tax exemptions for car transfers?
Gift transfers between immediate family members may qualify for a sales-tax exemption — file VR-103 with the bill of sale at title transfer.
What is the title transfer fee in Maryland?
The Maryland title transfer fee is $100. 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 Maryland car bill of sale in minutes. It is required at the DMV to register your purchase and document the taxable amount.
Create your Maryland 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.