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Free Kentucky Car Sales Tax Calculator

Work out the Kentucky car sales tax on a new or used car. Kentucky charges motor vehicle usage tax (6%). Your trade-in lowers the taxable price.

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Motor vehicle usage tax (6%).
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
$1,800.00
Taxable amount$30,000.00
Tax$1,800.00
Total due (before title and registration)$31,800.00
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Kentucky car sales tax rules

  • Tax type: Motor vehicle usage tax (6%)
  • Rate used in the calculator: 6%
  • Local taxes: One statewide 6% usage tax, collected by the county clerk at titling.
  • Trade-in credit: Yes. Trade-in allowances reduce the taxable price.
  • Manufacturer rebates: Not taxed: the rebate is subtracted before tax.
  • Also note: Minimum tax is $6. Manufacturer rebates are excluded from the price.

Tax on common car prices in Kentucky

PriceTaxTax with $5,000 trade-inPrice + tax
$10,000$600.00$300.00$10,600.00
$20,000$1,200.00$900.00$21,200.00
$30,000$1,800.00$1,500.00$31,800.00
$40,000$2,400.00$2,100.00$42,400.00
$50,000$3,000.00$2,700.00$53,000.00

At 6%.

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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 Kentucky?

Kentucky charges motor vehicle usage tax (6%). Your trade-in lowers the taxable price.

How much tax will I pay on a $30,000 car in Kentucky?

About $1,800.00 at 6%, or $1,500.00 with a $5,000 trade-in. Title, registration and plate fees are extra.

Does a trade-in reduce car sales tax in Kentucky?

Yes. Trade-in allowances reduce the taxable price.

Do local taxes apply to cars in Kentucky?

One statewide 6% usage tax, collected by the county clerk at titling.

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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