DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA CAR SALES TAX · 2026
District of Columbia car sales tax calculator
The District of Columbia charges an excise tax at titling, at a rate set by the vehicle's weight and city fuel economy, on its fair market value. On a $35,000 car with a $10,000 trade-in, bought from a dealer, the tax is $2,100.00.
Tax on this purchase
- Tax due
- $2,100.00
- Excise tax
- $2,100.00
- Taxed amount
- $35,000.00
This site has not confirmed whether the District of Columbia subtracts a trade-in, so the calculator does not.
District of Columbia car sales tax by price
A new car from a dealer, 3,500 to 4,999 lb and 21 to 25 MPG.
| Price | No trade-in | $10,000 trade-in |
|---|---|---|
| $20,000 | $1,200.00 | $1,200.00 |
| $35,000 | $2,100.00 | $2,100.00 |
| $50,000 | $3,000.00 | $3,000.00 |
| $75,000 | $4,500.00 | $4,500.00 |
District of Columbia car sales tax questions
How much is car sales tax in the District of Columbia?
The District of Columbia charges an excise tax at titling, at a rate set by the vehicle's weight and city fuel economy, on its fair market value. On a $35,000 car with a $10,000 trade-in, bought from a dealer, the tax is $2,100.00.
How is the District's car excise tax rate set?
By weight and city MPG: from 1% for a light electric vehicle to 11% for a vehicle of 5,000 pounds or more that gets 20 MPG or less. The calculator assumes 3,500 to 4,999 pounds and 21 to 25 MPG unless you choose otherwise.
Is a private car sale taxed in the District of Columbia?
Yes. The District of Columbia taxes a private sale at the same rate.
What the calculator leaves out
- This site has not confirmed on an official page whether the District of Columbia subtracts a trade-in from the tax, so the calculator does not.
- This site has not confirmed whether the District of Columbia taxes a manufacturer rebate, so the calculator taxes the price before it.
- The District taxes the vehicle's fair market value in the NADA guide; the calculator uses the price.
Title, registration and plate fees, dealer fees, and any yearly tax on owning the vehicle are not included.