Texas Car Dealer Fees & Taxes: Complete 2026 Guide
Everything you need to know about buying a car in Texas — sales tax, registration, title, doc fees, and more.
Texas Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| State Sales Tax | 6.25% |
| Registration Fee | $51 |
| Title Fee | $33 |
| Plate Fee | Included in registration |
| Inspection Fee | $7 |
| EV Surcharge | $200/yr |
| Dealer Doc Fee Cap | $150 cap |
| Total Base Govt Fees | $91 |
Note: Registration $51.75. Motor vehicle sales tax 6.25%. Annual safety inspection $7.50 (previously combined with emissions). Doc fee capped at $150.
Understanding Texas Car Fees
Sales Tax
Texas 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 $51 for vehicle registration and $33 for a title transfer. Plate fees are included in the registration cost. These fees are paid to the Texas DMV or motor vehicle division and are non-negotiable.
Dealer Documentation Fee
Texas caps dealer documentation fees at $150 by law. While dealers may charge up to this amount, you can still negotiate it lower.
EV Surcharge
Electric vehicle owners in Texas pay an annual surcharge of $200 to offset lost gas tax revenue. This is charged at registration renewal.
Vehicle Inspection
Texas requires a vehicle inspection costing approximately $7. This may include safety and/or emissions testing depending on your county.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sales tax on a car in Texas?
The state sales tax rate in Texas is 6.25%. Local jurisdictions may add additional taxes. Registration $51.75. Motor vehicle sales tax 6.25%. Annual safety inspection $7.50 (previously combined with emissions). Doc fee capped at $150.
How much are registration and title fees in Texas?
Texas charges $51 for vehicle registration and $33 for a title transfer. Total base government fees (registration + title + plates + inspection) come to $91.
Is there a dealer doc fee cap in Texas?
Texas caps dealer documentation fees at $150. Dealers cannot charge more than this by law, but the fee is still negotiable downward.
Does Texas charge an EV surcharge?
Yes, Texas charges an EV registration surcharge of $200 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 Texas?
On a $30,000 vehicle in Texas, expect approximately $1,875 in state sales tax (6.25%), plus $91 in base government fees (registration, title, plates, inspection). Add up to $150 in dealer doc fees. Use our OTD calculator for a precise estimate including local taxes.
Other State Fee Guides
Fee data sourced from Texas DMV and state revenue department. Updated for 2026.