If you’re buying a car, truck, RV, or trailer in Utah, you’ll be responsible for 6.85% in state vehicle sales tax, along with other title and registration fees. This rate applies to both new and used vehicles—whether purchased from a dealership or a private seller. While Utah doesn’t add local sales tax on top of the state rate, that flat rate can still cost thousands, especially for high-value vehicles.
In this guide, we’ll explain how Utah’s vehicle sales tax works, how it compares to other states, and how Ride Legal helps you legally avoid overpaying tax through out-of-state registration strategies.
Utah Vehicle Sales Tax Overview
Utah’s Sales and Use Tax on motor vehicles is 6.85% of the purchase price or fair market value, whichever is higher (Utah State Tax Commission – Sales and Use Tax).
Key facts:
- Applies to both dealer and private-party sales
- Collected at time of title transfer and registration
- Trade-in credits are allowed for dealership purchases
- No additional county or municipal vehicle sales tax
- Applies to cars, trucks, RVs, trailers, and motorcycles
Example: Utah Vehicle Sales Tax Costs
Here’s a look at how Utah’s 6.85% tax impacts vehicles at different price points:
| Vehicle Price | Tax Rate | Estimated Tax | Total with Tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| $30,000 | 6.85% | $2,055 | $32,055 |
| $50,000 | 6.85% | $3,425 | $53,425 |
| $75,000 | 6.85% | $5,137.50 | $80,137.50 |
| $100,000 | 6.85% | $6,850 | $106,850 |
How Utah Compares to Other States
Utah’s vehicle sales tax rate sits above the national average and does not offer any tax cap on large purchases.
- 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)
Buyers of luxury vehicles in Utah can often save $5,000–$10,000 by legally registering in Montana through Ride Legal.
What You Still Pay in Utah
Even if you avoid sales tax through out-of-state registration, Utah buyers still pay:
- Title fee: $6
- Registration fee: ~$44–$100+, depending on vehicle type and weight
- Uniform fee (age-based): $10–$150 for passenger vehicles
- Emission and inspection fees: Where applicable
(Source: Utah DMV – Vehicle Fees)
10 Ways to Reallocate Your Tax Savings
Avoiding $5,000+ in sales tax lets you invest in what truly matters to you:
- Upgrade to a higher trim or performance package
- Apply ceramic coating or paint protection film
- Install suspension upgrades, premium wheels, or off-road packages
- Buy an extended service contract or maintenance plan
- Outfit your RV or trailer with solar or smart tech
- Cover a full year of insurance and registration
- Take delivery at an event or road trip to a destination
- Add a second vehicle or trailer
- Boost resale value with detailing and documentation
- Join track days, rallies, or automotive clubs
Why Use Ride Legal
Ride Legal helps Utah residents and buyers across the country register vehicles through Montana, where there is no sales tax on vehicles. Our legal process involves setting up a Montana LLC and registering your vehicle under it for maximum savings.
We specialize in:
- Montana LLC formation
- Legal title and registration service
- Compliance for luxury, exotic, RV, off-road, and commercial vehicles
- Ongoing support and renewals
Thousands of customers have saved $3,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Utah Vehicle Sales Tax
Q: What is the vehicle sales tax rate in Utah?
A: Utah charges 6.85% sales tax on all motor vehicle purchases (Utah State Tax Commission – Sales and Use Tax).
Q: Does the tax apply to private sales?
A: Yes. Private sales are subject to the same rate as dealership sales.
Q: Are there any exemptions?
A: Yes—for gifts, inheritance, family transfers, and certain government purchases.
Q: Can I avoid Utah sales tax legally?
A: Yes—Ride Legal helps buyers register in Montana, where the sales tax rate is 0%, using a compliant LLC structure.
Don’t Pay 6.85% in Utah — Save Big with Ride Legal
At nearly 7%, Utah’s vehicle sales tax can significantly raise your cost of ownership. Ride Legal helps you eliminate that tax legally by registering your vehicle in Montana and protecting your bottom line.
Visit www.ridelegal.com to start saving today.
