You can use our Massachusetts used car sales tax calculator to find out how much sales tax you’ll owe when buying a used car in Massachusetts.
Use our free calculator below to estimate your state and local sales tax based on your vehicle price and location in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Car Sales Tax Overview
How Much is Used Car Sales Tax in Massachusetts?
- State sales tax rate: 6.25%
- Local/county tax rate: None (Massachusetts does not have local vehicle sales taxes).
- Total tax rate: 6.25% statewide
- Tax is based on: The purchase price or fair market value (whichever is higher).
Do I Pay Sales Tax on a Used Car from a Private Seller?
Yes. Even if you buy from a private individual instead of a dealership, sales tax is still due when you register the vehicle with the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV).
Other Fees to Expect in Massachusetts
While these aren’t part of the sales tax, you’ll need to budget for additional fees when registering your vehicle:
| Fee Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Title Fee | $75 |
| Registration Fee | $60 (passenger vehicles) |
| Inspection Fee | $35 (safety and emissions, varies by vehicle type) |
| Dealer Documentation Fee | Capped at $495 |
When Do I Pay Sales Tax?
You don’t pay sales tax to the seller. Instead, you must pay it at the time of registration with the Massachusetts RMV.
Make sure to bring your bill of sale, title, and proof of insurance when registering your car.
County Tax Rates in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has a flat statewide vehicle sales tax rate of 6.25%, meaning local or county-based taxes do not apply.
Use our Massachusetts used car sales tax calculator above to estimate your tax based on the vehicle price. You can also check the Massachusetts Department of Revenue website for the most up-to-date information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1) Do I pay tax on dealer fees?
Yes, dealer fees such as documentation fees are subject to sales tax in Massachusetts.
2) What if I buy a car out of state and bring it to Massachusetts?
If you purchase a car out of state and register it in Massachusetts, you must still pay Massachusetts sales tax unless you can prove you paid at least 6.25% in another state.
3) What if I gift a car to a family member?
Massachusetts allows tax exemptions for gifts between close family members, such as parents, children, or spouses. However, a Gift Affidavit (Form MVU-24) must be submitted to qualify.
What’s Next?
Now that you know your estimated used car sales tax:
- Gather your documents (bill of sale, title, proof of insurance).
- Visit your local Massachusetts RMV office or use online services where applicable.
- Pay your applicable sales tax and fees to complete the registration process.
Use our calculator to get an estimate before heading to the RMV, ensuring you’re fully prepared!
Helpful Resources
If you need more information about buying, registering, and owning a car in Massachusetts, here are some other handy resources that might help:
- Motor Vehicle and Trailer Sales and Use Tax
- What’s the Tax on a Used Car in Massachusetts?
- Massachusetts DMV Office Locations
Massachusetts County Sales Tax Rates
| County | County Sales Tax Rate (%) |
|---|---|
| Barnstable | 0.00 |
| Berkshire | 0.00 |
| Bristol | 0.00 |
| Dukes | 0.00 |
| Essex | 0.00 |
| Franklin | 0.00 |
| Hampden | 0.00 |
| Hampshire | 0.00 |
| Middlesex | 0.00 |
| Nantucket | 0.00 |
| Norfolk | 0.00 |
| Plymouth | 0.00 |
| Suffolk | 0.00 |
| Worcester | 0.00 |