CarFlipIQ

Washington Vehicle Sales Tax Calculator

State rate: 6.50%. Local additions: up to 3.80%. Trade-in credit: Yes.

Inputs

Washington sales tax

Taxable amount$12,000
State rate6.50%
Local rate0.00%
Effective rate6.50%
State tax$780
Local tax$0
Title fee$12
Total tax due$780
Total out-the-door
$12,792
$12,000 price + $780 tax + $12 title

About Washington vehicle tax

Washington state rate is 6.5%. Local rates add up to 3.8%. Trade-in deductible.

Estimates only. Tax rates change and local rates vary by city/county. Always verify with the Washington DMV before finalizing a purchase.

About Washington vehicle tax

Washington state rate is 6.5%. Local rates add up to 3.8%. Trade-in deductible.

State sales tax

6.50%

Max observed local rate

3.80%

Trade-in credit

Allowed

Title transfer fee

$12

Washington used car market

Tax math tells you what a car costs to buy. CarFlipIQ tells you whether it'll actually sell in Washington. We track every Facebook Marketplace listing across the state — real comps, real days-on-market, for every make and model.

Sales tax in other states

Buying or selling across state lines? Compare the rate, trade-in rules, and out-the-door cost in other states — or read the full used car sales tax by state guide.

FAQ

What is the vehicle sales tax in Washington?

Washington charges a state-level rate of 6.50% on vehicle purchases. Local rates can add up to an additional 3.80%. Trade-in value is deductible from the taxable basis.

Does Washington give a trade-in tax credit?

Yes. In Washington, the value of your trade-in is subtracted from the purchase price before sales tax is calculated. On a $20,000 car with a $5,000 trade-in, you only pay tax on $15,000.

What is the title transfer fee in Washington?

Washington charges approximately $12 for title transfer. Dealer documentation ("doc") fees typically range up to $200, though these are dealer-set and negotiable on most transactions.

How do I calculate out-the-door price in Washington?

Out-the-door = purchase price + (taxable amount × effective rate) + title fee + registration. Taxable amount equals purchase price minus trade-in (where allowed). Effective rate is state plus local. Use the calculator above for an exact figure on your specific purchase.