How much is the tax on a car in WA?

Washington structures the vehicle taxation — through a composite rate. Taxpayers pay the standard retail sales tax — 6.5% state base plus the local jurisdiction rate — and a distinct 0.5% motor vehicle add-on for transactions executed — on or after January 1, 2026. Licensing fees attach to the title & registration event.

What taxes are part of a Washington car purchase?

The final invoice aggregates several distinct levies as outlined in the table below:

How do you calculate the total before purchasing?

Calculate a precise estimate by anchoring the math to the location.

• Locate the address — the delivery or garage address should be identified to lock in the rate
• Retrieve the percentage — the exact figure should be pulled via the Department of Revenue tax rate lookup
• Apply the math — the rate must be multiplied by the taxable amount listed on the bill of sale
• Append the fees — the licensing charges due should be added at the time of title transfer & registration

What if you buy from a private seller or buy outside Washington?

In the case that the seller does not capture sales tax at the point of purchase, the state intervenes at registration. It’s true that Washington collects use tax at that stage. Licensing agents confirm the purchase price against an automated valuing system. If the stated price falls below fair market value without justification, the state calculates use tax in parallel to the FMV — rather than the transaction price.

Do trade-ins lower what gets taxed?

For the standard retail sales tax, qualified dealer transactions permit a trade-in credit. In other words, the state calculates tax only on the net difference. Yet, it should be recognized that the new 8% Luxury Motor Vehicle Tax is calculated on the vehicle's gross selling price; trade-in credits do not lower the luxury tax liability.

Is there extra tax on cars over $100,000?

Yes. An additional luxury motor vehicle tax applies to high-value assets. Effective January 1, 2026, Washington applies an 8% surcharge on the value segment exceeding $100,000. This rule contains many new / used sales & specific lease structures.

Need support from Maris & Associates?

Engaging a professional to confirm the tax components of your transaction. Contact us. Our team can audit the documentation approach & locate variables that alter the licensing liability. Bring:

• Purchase agreements — buyer’s order or bill of sale
• Title copies — if signed over
• Lien & payoff statements