Texas Car Sales Tax Calculator (2026)
Estimate Texas 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.
Texas Car Sales Tax Calculator
Estimate state tax, local surtax, and total cost for a private car sale in Texas.
Estimated total tax
$937.50
6.25% combined rate
Tax based on Standard Presumptive Value (SPV) or purchase price, whichever is higher
Flat 6.25% motor vehicle sales tax statewide
Estimate only. TX DMV may calculate tax from the higher of purchase price or book value. Confirm exact rates with your county tax assessor before transfer.
Got your estimate?
Now create the bill of sale that documents it
The purchase price you entered above is what the DMV uses to calculate the tax owed. A signed bill of sale is required at the DMV to register the vehicle — generate yours in 3 minutes.
Create My Bill of Sale — $19From $12 · instant PDF · all 50 states
How Texas taxes private car sales
Texas applies a flat 6.25% sales tax on private party car transactions statewide. Flat 6.25% motor vehicle sales tax statewide. Tax based on Standard Presumptive Value (SPV) or purchase price, whichever is higher.
Who pays the tax
In Texas 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 30 days of the sale date. Texas 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 Form 14-317 with the bill of sale at title transfer.
Form 14-317 — official Texas form
Late penalties
Filing the title transfer beyond the 30-day window typically triggers a late fee plus monthly interest on the unpaid tax. The Texas DMV may also block registration renewals until the back tax is paid. File on time — the calculator above shows the exact amount owed.
Before you compare states
Get the bill of sale your DMV requires
No matter which state you're in, a signed bill of sale is required to register a private vehicle purchase. Generate one now — state-specific, instant PDF.
Create My Bill of Sale — $19From $12 · instant PDF · all 50 states
Compare car sales tax across states
See how Texas 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%
Texas car sales tax FAQ
How much is sales tax on a car in Texas?
Texas charges a flat 6.25% on private car sales statewide. Tax based on Standard Presumptive Value (SPV) or purchase price, whichever is higher.
Who pays sales tax on a private car sale in Texas?
In Texas 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 Texas car sales tax due?
Tax is due within 30 days of the sale date. Texas late-titling penalties typically begin once that window closes — interest accrues monthly on unpaid tax.
Are there any Texas sales-tax exemptions for car transfers?
Gift transfers between immediate family members may qualify for a sales-tax exemption — file Form 14-317 with the bill of sale at title transfer.
What is the title transfer fee in Texas?
The Texas title transfer fee is $33. 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 Texas car bill of sale in minutes. It is required at the DMV to register your purchase and document the taxable amount.
Create your Texas 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.