Illinois Car Dealer Fees & Taxes: Complete 2026 Guide
Everything you need to know about buying a car in Illinois — sales tax, registration, title, doc fees, and more.
Illinois Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| State Sales Tax | 6.25% |
| Registration Fee | $151 |
| Title Fee | $150 |
| Plate Fee | Included in registration |
| Inspection Fee | Not required |
| EV Surcharge | $100/yr |
| Dealer Doc Fee Cap | No state cap (negotiable) |
| Total Base Govt Fees | $301 |
Note: High title fee ($150). Plate fee included in registration. Doc fees uncapped and can be $300+. Emissions testing in Chicago metro area.
Understanding Illinois Car Fees
Sales Tax
Illinois charges a 6.25% state sales tax on vehicle purchases. Local cities and counties may add additional taxes on top of this rate, so your total tax rate could be higher depending on where you buy.
Registration & Title
You will pay $151 for vehicle registration and $150 for a title transfer. Plate fees are included in the registration cost. These fees are paid to the Illinois DMV or motor vehicle division and are non-negotiable.
Dealer Documentation Fee
Illinois does not set a legal cap on dealer documentation (doc) fees. This means dealers can charge whatever they want, and fees of $300-$800+ are common. Always negotiate this fee or ask for it to be waived.
EV Surcharge
Electric vehicle owners in Illinois pay an annual surcharge of $100 to offset lost gas tax revenue. This is charged at registration renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sales tax on a car in Illinois?
The state sales tax rate in Illinois is 6.25%. Local jurisdictions may add additional taxes. High title fee ($150). Plate fee included in registration. Doc fees uncapped and can be $300+. Emissions testing in Chicago metro area.
How much are registration and title fees in Illinois?
Illinois charges $151 for vehicle registration and $150 for a title transfer. Total base government fees (registration + title + plates + inspection) come to $301.
Is there a dealer doc fee cap in Illinois?
Illinois does not cap dealer documentation fees. Doc fees are negotiable, and dealers may charge $200-$800+. Always ask for a breakdown of fees before signing.
Does Illinois charge an EV surcharge?
Yes, Illinois charges an EV registration surcharge of $100 per year. This fee offsets lost fuel tax revenue from electric vehicles.
What is the total out-the-door cost on a $30,000 car in Illinois?
On a $30,000 vehicle in Illinois, expect approximately $1,875 in state sales tax (6.25%), plus $301 in base government fees (registration, title, plates, inspection). Dealer doc fees are uncapped and negotiable. Use our OTD calculator for a precise estimate including local taxes.
Other State Fee Guides
Fee data sourced from Illinois DMV and state revenue department. Updated for 2026.