CALIFORNIA CAR SALES TAX · 2026
California car sales tax calculator
California charges 7.25% sales and use tax on a car's full price, with no deduction for a trade-in, plus local tax. On a $35,000 car with a $10,000 trade-in, bought from a dealer, the tax is $2,537.50, before local tax.
Tax on this purchase
- Tax due
- $2,537.50
- Sales and use tax
- $2,537.50
- Local tax
- $0.00
- Taxed amount
- $35,000.00
California does not subtract a trade-in.
California car sales tax by price
A new car from a dealer, before local tax.
| Price | No trade-in | $10,000 trade-in |
|---|---|---|
| $20,000 | $1,450.00 | $1,450.00 |
| $35,000 | $2,537.50 | $2,537.50 |
| $50,000 | $3,625.00 | $3,625.00 |
| $75,000 | $5,437.50 | $5,437.50 |
California car sales tax questions
How much is car sales tax in California?
California charges 7.25% sales and use tax on a car's full price, with no deduction for a trade-in, plus local tax. On a $35,000 car with a $10,000 trade-in, bought from a dealer, the tax is $2,537.50, before local tax.
Does a trade-in lower California's car sales tax?
No. California taxes the full price; a trade-in does not lower the tax.
Is a manufacturer rebate taxed in California?
Yes. California taxes the price before a manufacturer rebate, so a $2,000 rebate does not lower the tax.
Is a private car sale taxed in California?
Yes. California taxes a private sale at the same rate, with no deduction for a trade-in.
What the calculator leaves out
- Local tax is included only when you enter it.
Title, registration and plate fees, dealer fees, and any yearly tax on owning the vehicle are not included.