Montana Vehicle Sales Tax & Fees
Purchasing a car in Montana is an exciting, new, and stressful event. Unfortunately, it’s also a very expensive one.
Along with the purchase price comes hidden fees and sales taxes.
Here’s what you can expect to pay when it comes to fees and taxes in the state of Montana.
How Much Is the Car Sales Tax in Montana?
As of 2026, Montana is one of five states that does not have a state sales tax. That means that you don’t have to pay any taxes when you purchase a vehicle in the state of Montana.
The other states include Alaska, Delaware, New Hampshire, and Oregon.
How to Calculate Montana Sales Tax on a Car
Since you don’t have to pay sales tax on any vehicle sales in Montana, there is no calculation needed.
For example, if you purchase a new truck for $45,000, the state sales tax will be $0.
Do I Have to Pay Sales Tax on a Used Car in Montana?
You do not have to pay any state sales tax when you purchase a used car in Montana.
For instance, if you purchase a used SUV for $35,000, the state sales tax will be $0.
Car Sales Tax for Trade-Ins in Montana
You guessed it, no tax on trade-ins in Montana!
For instance, if you purchase a truck for $50,000 and your trade-in is worth $15,000, then the full purchase price of your vehicle will be $35,000 with no tax on the final purchase price.
Car Sales Tax on Private Sales in Montana
Since there is no state sales tax, you do not have to worry about paying any taxes on your vehicle, no matter how you purchase the car.
For instance, let’s say that you want to purchase an SUV from a private owner for $30,000. The state sales tax would be $0.
Montana DMV & State Fees
While Montana does not have a state sales tax, there are DMV and state fees that you have to be aware of.
Here’s a look at the current DMV and state fees associated with vehicle sales:
Registration in Montana
Montana charges registration by the age of the vehicle, so a new car costs far more to register than an old one. These rates include the 3% administrative fee:
- 4 years old or less: $217
- 5 to 10 years old: $87
- 11 years or older: $28
- Permanent registration, 11 years or older: $87.50 once, and you never renew again
There are also fees added on top:
- $10 Montana Highway Patrol Salary and Retention Fee
- $5 Insurance Verification Fee on permanent registrations issued new plates
- $12 title issuance fee for a light vehicle, $10 for a motorcycle or motor home
- $12 new issue plate fee
- County option tax, which varies by county
Watch the luxury fee if you are buying near the top of the market. A light vehicle ten years old or newer with an MSRP above $150,000 carries an $825 annual luxury tax. Motor homes above $300,000 pay $800. That is charged every year you register it, not once.
Dealership Fees in Montana
The average dealership documentation fee in Montana is about $224. Documentation fees are the fees associated with a dealer filing the paperwork with the Montana DMV in order to legalize the deal.
When Sales Tax Is Exempt in Montana
Since there is no sales tax in the state of Montana, there are no exemptions needed in this case.
Montana EV Rebates & Incentives
Montana does not currently offer a state EV rebate. There is no federal credit either. The federal EV tax credit ended on September 30, 2025, so a Montana buyer today gets no purchase incentive from either level of government.
Tax information and rates are subject to change, please be sure to verify with your local DMV.
