Free Washington Car Sales Tax Calculator
Work out the Washington car sales tax on a new or used car. Washington charges sales tax plus 0.5% motor vehicle tax, about 10.07% on average with local taxes. Your trade-in lowers the taxable price.
Washington car sales tax rules
- Tax type: Sales tax plus 0.5% motor vehicle tax
- Rate used in the calculator: 10.07% (state 6.5% plus the average local rate; up to 11.2% in some areas)
- Local taxes: Local sales tax is added at the rate where you buy, plus an extra 0.5% state motor vehicle tax (0.3% before 2026).
- Trade-in credit: Yes, for a like-kind vehicle the dealer takes. Loan payoffs do not reduce the tax.
- Manufacturer rebates: Taxed: tax is figured on the price before the rebate.
- Also note: Manufacturer rebates are taxed; dealer-funded discounts are not.
Tax on common car prices in Washington
| Price | Tax | Tax with $5,000 trade-in | Price + tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| $10,000 | $1,007.00 | $503.50 | $11,007.00 |
| $20,000 | $2,014.00 | $1,510.50 | $22,014.00 |
| $30,000 | $3,021.00 | $2,517.50 | $33,021.00 |
| $40,000 | $4,028.00 | $3,524.50 | $44,028.00 |
| $50,000 | $5,035.00 | $4,531.50 | $55,035.00 |
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 Washington?
Washington charges sales tax plus 0.5% motor vehicle tax, about 10.07% on average with local taxes. Your trade-in lowers the taxable price.
How much tax will I pay on a $30,000 car in Washington?
About $3,021.00 at 10.07%, or $2,517.50 with a $5,000 trade-in. Title, registration and plate fees are extra.
Does a trade-in reduce car sales tax in Washington?
Yes, for a like-kind vehicle the dealer takes. Loan payoffs do not reduce the tax.
Do local taxes apply to cars in Washington?
Local sales tax is added at the rate where you buy, plus an extra 0.5% state motor vehicle tax (0.3% before 2026).
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