Buying a car, truck, RV, or trailer in Vermont means you’ll likely pay a 6% Purchase and Use Tax (P&U) on the transaction. This tax applies whether you’re purchasing from a dealership or a private individual, and it’s calculated on the fair market value of the vehicle—not necessarily the price you paid.
In this article, we’ll explain how Vermont applies its vehicle tax, how it compares to other states, and how Ride Legal can help you legally reduce or eliminate that tax through out-of-state registration strategies.
Vermont Vehicle Sales Tax Overview
Vermont’s vehicle sales tax is officially called the Purchase and Use Tax (P&U), which is set at 6% of the vehicle’s taxable value (Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles – P&U Tax).
Key facts:
- Applies to dealer and private-party sales
- Calculated on purchase price or NADA value, whichever is higher
- Collected at the time of registration and titling
- Trade-in credit allowed only on dealer sales
- Applies to cars, trucks, trailers, RVs, motorcycles, and more
Example: Vermont Vehicle Sales Tax Costs
Here’s what you might owe in Vermont under the 6% P&U tax:
| Vehicle Price | Tax Rate | Estimated Tax | Total with Tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| $30,000 | 6% | $1,800 | $31,800 |
| $50,000 | 6% | $3,000 | $53,000 |
| $75,000 | 6% | $4,500 | $79,500 |
| $100,000 | 6% | $6,000 | $106,000 |
How Vermont Compares to Other States
While Vermont’s 6% rate is not the highest in the country, it still amounts to thousands of dollars in tax—especially when compared to tax-free states.
- California (Los Angeles County): 9.5% – $100,000 = $9,500 tax (California Department of Tax and Fee Administration – Rates)
- Florida (Miami-Dade): 7% with a $5,000 cap – max ~$700 tax (Florida Department of Revenue)
- New York (Yonkers): 8.875% – $100,000 = $8,875 tax (New York Department of Taxation – Sales Tax Rates)
- Montana: 0% – No vehicle sales tax (Montana Department of Justice – Vehicle Registration)
Registering a $75,000 vehicle in Montana instead of Vermont could save $4,500 or more, legally.
What You Still Pay in Vermont
In addition to the 6% P&U tax, buyers must also pay:
- Title fee: $35
- Registration fee: ~$76–$144 depending on vehicle type
- Inspection and plate fees: Vary by county and vehicle
(Source: Vermont DMV – Registration Fees)
10 Ways to Reallocate Your Tax Savings
Avoiding $3,000–$6,000 in tax gives you serious flexibility. Here are smart ways to reinvest that money:
- Upgrade to a higher trim or performance edition
- Apply ceramic coating or paint protection film
- Add premium wheels, tires, or suspension
- Purchase an extended warranty or service plan
- Install infotainment, security, or driver-assist tech
- Outfit your RV or trailer with solar and appliances
- Cover insurance and registration for a full year
- Take delivery and road trip your new vehicle
- Add a secondary vehicle like a trailer or side-by-side
- Boost resale with professional detailing and documentation
Why Use Ride Legal
Ride Legal helps Vermont residents legally register vehicles in Montana, where there’s no sales tax and flat registration fees. Our Montana LLC strategy is 100% legal, efficient, and trusted by thousands of buyers.
We handle:
- Montana LLC formation
- Vehicle titling and registration
- Compliance for exotic, off-road, and commercial vehicles
- Ongoing renewals and documentation
Our clients routinely save $3,000–$15,000 or more on luxury vehicles, RVs, and trailers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vermont Vehicle Sales Tax
Q: What is the sales tax rate on vehicles in Vermont?
A: Vermont charges 6% via the Purchase and Use Tax (Vermont DMV – P&U Tax).
Q: Does it apply to private-party sales?
A: Yes. Both dealer and private sales are taxed at the same rate.
Q: Is trade-in value deductible?
A: Yes, but only when purchasing from a licensed dealer.
Q: Can I avoid this tax legally?
A: Yes—by registering in Montana through Ride Legal, which allows for sales-tax-free vehicle registration using a legal LLC.
Skip the 6% Tax in Vermont — Register Smarter with Ride Legal
Vermont buyers pay thousands in vehicle tax—but you don’t have to. Ride Legal helps you legally register in Montana, keeping your money where it belongs: with you.
Visit Ridelegal to start saving today.
