Free District of Columbia Car Sales Tax Calculator

Work out the District of Columbia car sales tax on a new or used car. District of Columbia charges an excise tax of 1% to 11% of a car’s fair market value, depending on its weight and fuel economy, instead of sales tax.

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Example rate. District of Columbia’s excise tax is 1% to 11% depending on the car; enter yours.
More options: rebate, dealer fees, state rules
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Doc fees are taxable in many states. Leave at 0 if unsure.
Estimated tax
$2,100.00
Taxable amount$30,000.00
Tax$2,100.00
Total due (before title and registration)$32,100.00
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District of Columbia car sales tax rules

  • Tax type: Excise tax (1% to 11%, by weight and fuel economy)
  • Rate used in the calculator: 7%
  • Local taxes: DC is a single tax area.
  • Trade-in credit: The excise tax is based on the car’s fair market value, so the price you negotiate and any trade-in do not change it.
  • Manufacturer rebates: Taxed: tax is figured on the price before the rebate.
  • Also note: The rate runs from 1% to 11% of fair market value depending on the car’s weight and city MPG (electric cars 1% to 3%). The calculator starts at 7% as an example; use the DMV table for your car.

Tax on common car prices in District of Columbia

PriceTaxPrice + tax
$10,000$700.00$10,700.00
$20,000$1,400.00$21,400.00
$30,000$2,100.00$32,100.00
$40,000$2,800.00$42,800.00
$50,000$3,500.00$53,500.00

At 7%.

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Other costs when you buy a car

On top of the tax, expect title, registration and plate fees, and a dealer documentation fee. Check whether the car fits your budget with the car affordability calculator, or compare with a lease.

Frequently asked questions

How much is sales tax on a car in District of Columbia?

District of Columbia charges an excise tax of 1% to 11% of a car’s fair market value, depending on its weight and fuel economy, instead of sales tax.

How much tax will I pay on a $30,000 car in District of Columbia?

About $2,100.00 at 7%. Title, registration and plate fees are extra.

Does a trade-in reduce car sales tax in District of Columbia?

The excise tax is based on the car’s fair market value, so the price you negotiate and any trade-in do not change it.

Do local taxes apply to cars in District of Columbia?

DC is a single tax area.

Sources

Rules last reviewed 2026-11-11. Estimates only; the dealer or your state motor vehicle agency calculates the final amount.

Other states

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