California Car Sales Tax Calculator
Estimate the sales tax on a vehicle purchase. In California, tax is calculated on the full vehicle price before any trade-in value is deducted. Rates include the 7.25% statewide tax plus local district taxes.
What Is California Car Sales Tax?
California has a statewide base sales tax of 7.25%. On top of that, each county or city can add its own district tax. This means the total rate you pay depends on where you register the car.
For example:
- Los Angeles County: 9.5%
- San Diego County: 7.75%
- San Francisco County: 8.625%
- Santa Clara County: 9.375%
So, two people buying the same $30,000 car could owe different sales tax amounts depending on their location.
Why Use a California Car Sales Tax Calculator?
Instead of trying to look up tax rates and crunching numbers by hand, a calculator does the work for you. Here’s why it’s useful:
- Accurate estimates – Uses local county tax rates.
- Quick and easy – Just enter the car price and select your county.
- Budget clarity – See the total tax before heading to the dealership.
- Avoid surprises – Know your real out-the-door cost.
How the Calculator Works
The calculator is simple to use:
- Enter the vehicle price – For example, $30,000.
- Select your county – Each county has its own tax rate.
- Click “Calculate” – The tool will show:
- Taxable amount
- Tax rate percentage
- Estimated total sales tax
Example:
- Car price: $30,000
- County: Los Angeles (9.5%)
- Sales tax = $30,000 × 9.5% = $2,850
Key Things to Know About California Car Sales Tax
Before you use the calculator, keep these rules in mind:
- Tax applies to the full vehicle price. Trade-ins are not deducted before tax.
- Local rates matter. Always use your registration county, not just where you buy the car.
- New and used cars both qualify. Whether it’s from a dealership or private seller, sales tax applies.
- Leased vehicles too. Monthly lease payments include sales tax.
Try the California Car Sales Tax Calculator
Here’s the calculator in action:
Just plug in your numbers, and you’ll get your total estimated sales tax instantly.
Calculate Car Sales Tax by State with Our Free Calculator
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