Estimate the sales tax on a used car purchase in any of California's 58 counties. Uses CDTFA-sourced combined state and local rates. Instantly shows tax amount and out-the-door total.
Excludes DMV registration fees, title transfer, and smog certification.
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California's base sales tax rate is 7.25%, made up of a 6% state rate, 1% county tax, and 0.25% state education fund. On top of this, many cities and counties have added local district taxes — ranging from 0.25% to 3% additional.
The combined rate varies from 7.25% in rural counties to over 10.25% in Los Angeles County and parts of the Bay Area. Rates are assigned to the county where the vehicle is purchased — not where you live.
California allows a trade-in credit: you are only taxed on the difference between the new vehicle's purchase price and your trade-in value. This can save you significant money — especially on higher-value vehicles.
Example: Buy a $12,000 car and trade in a vehicle worth $3,000. You only pay sales tax on $9,000 instead of $12,000.
Rates are sourced from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA). Local district tax rates change periodically — verify the current rate at cdtfa.ca.gov before finalizing a purchase. This calculator was last updated July 2026.
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For the exact tax rate at a specific address, use the CDTFA's official rate lookup tool.
CDTFA Rate LookupRates are approximate and sourced from CDTFA data (July 2026). Local district rates change periodically. Verify the current rate at cdtfa.ca.gov before finalizing a purchase. This calculator is for estimation purposes only and does not include DMV registration fees, title fees, or smog certification costs.