New Jersey Car Dealer Fees & Taxes: Complete 2026 Guide
Everything you need to know about buying a car in New Jersey — sales tax, registration, title, doc fees, and more.
New Jersey Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| State Sales Tax | 6.625% |
| Registration Fee | $35 |
| Title Fee | $60 |
| Plate Fee | Included in registration |
| Inspection Fee | Not required |
| EV Surcharge | None |
| Dealer Doc Fee Cap | No state cap (negotiable) |
| Total Base Govt Fees | $95 |
Note: Registration $35.50-$84 based on vehicle weight and age. Title $60-$85. Free emissions inspection at state-run stations. No safety inspection.
Understanding New Jersey Car Fees
Sales Tax
New Jersey charges a 6.625% 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 $35 for vehicle registration and $60 for a title transfer. Plate fees are included in the registration cost. These fees are paid to the New Jersey DMV or motor vehicle division and are non-negotiable.
Dealer Documentation Fee
New Jersey 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sales tax on a car in New Jersey?
The state sales tax rate in New Jersey is 6.625%. Local jurisdictions may add additional taxes. Registration $35.50-$84 based on vehicle weight and age. Title $60-$85. Free emissions inspection at state-run stations. No safety inspection.
How much are registration and title fees in New Jersey?
New Jersey charges $35 for vehicle registration and $60 for a title transfer. Total base government fees (registration + title + plates + inspection) come to $95.
Is there a dealer doc fee cap in New Jersey?
New Jersey 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 New Jersey charge an EV surcharge?
No, New Jersey does not currently charge a separate EV registration surcharge.
What is the total out-the-door cost on a $30,000 car in New Jersey?
On a $30,000 vehicle in New Jersey, expect approximately $1,988 in state sales tax (6.625%), plus $95 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 New Jersey DMV and state revenue department. Updated for 2026.