What fees come with buying a used car?
Common fees on a used car
The sticker price is rarely the final cost. Sales tax is often the largest add-on, and rates vary by state, county and city. Title and registration fees go to the state, and their amounts depend on the car's weight, value or age and on where you live.
Dealers may also add a documentation fee for paperwork, and sometimes charge for dealer prep, advertising or add-on products. Some of these fees are limited by state law and some are negotiable, so ask which ones are fixed.
- Sales tax, which varies by location
- Title and registration fees paid to the state
- Dealer documentation fee
- Inspection or emissions test fees where required
- Optional add-ons such as paint protection or service plans
How to compare the real price
Ask for an out-the-door price in writing, which includes every fee and tax. Compare that total across dealers and private sales, since a lower listing price can end up costing more once fees are added. In a private sale, you typically pay the title and registration fees yourself, plus any tax your state requires.
Be cautious of unfamiliar charges that appear late in the process, and ask what each one covers before you agree to it.
Common mistakes
- Comparing listing prices instead of the total out-the-door cost.
- Signing paperwork that adds optional products without reading each line.
- Forgetting sales tax and title costs when you set your budget.
