New Hampshire Car Sales Tax Calculator (2026)
Estimate New Hampshire 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.
New Hampshire Car Sales Tax Calculator
Estimate state tax, local surtax, and total cost for a private car sale in New Hampshire.
Estimated total tax
$0.00
Exempt from state sales tax for private party sales
New Hampshire exempts private party car sales from state sales tax. New Hampshire has no state sales tax; local permit fees vary
No sales tax; municipal vehicle registration permit fees apply
Estimate only. NH DMV may calculate tax from the higher of purchase price or book value. Confirm exact rates with your county tax assessor before transfer.
How New Hampshire taxes private car sales
New Hampshire is one of the rare states that exempts private party car transactions from state sales tax. New Hampshire has no state sales tax; local permit fees vary. No sales tax; municipal vehicle registration permit fees apply. Even with no state tax, buyers still pay the $25 title transfer fee at the DMV.
Who pays the tax
In New Hampshire 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 20 days of the sale date. New Hampshire late-titling penalties typically begin once that window closes — interest accrues monthly on unpaid tax.
Exemptions and gift transfers
New Hampshire exempts private party car sales from state sales tax. New Hampshire has no state sales tax; local permit fees vary.
Late penalties
Filing the title transfer beyond the 20-day window typically triggers a late fee plus monthly interest on the unpaid tax. The New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire stacks up against the five lowest- and highest-tax states for a private car purchase. Tap any state to open its calculator.
5 highest sales-tax states
- Arkansas11.63%
- Louisiana11.45%
- California10.50%
- Kansas10.50%
- Washington10.40%
New Hampshire car sales tax FAQ
How much is sales tax on a car in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire private party car sales are exempt from state sales tax. New Hampshire has no state sales tax; local permit fees vary. Use the calculator above to confirm your total.
Who pays sales tax on a private car sale in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire car sales tax due?
Tax is due within 20 days of the sale date. New Hampshire late-titling penalties typically begin once that window closes — interest accrues monthly on unpaid tax.
Are there any New Hampshire sales-tax exemptions for car transfers?
New Hampshire exempts private party car sales from state sales tax. New Hampshire has no state sales tax; local permit fees vary.
What is the title transfer fee in New Hampshire?
The New Hampshire title transfer fee is $25. 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 New Hampshire car bill of sale in minutes. It is required at the DMV to register your purchase and document the taxable amount.
Create your New Hampshire 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.