Colorado Vehicle Tax Structure
Colorado's vehicle tax system combines state, county, and city taxes, creating varying total rates across different locations. The state also uses a specific ownership tax (SOT) based on the vehicle's value and age.
State and Local Tax Rates
- State Rate: 2.9%
- County Rates: 0% to 5%
- City Rates: 0% to 4.75%
- Special Districts: Additional rates may apply
Major City Total Rates
- Denver: 8.81%
- Colorado Springs: 8.25%
- Aurora: 8.75%
- Fort Collins: 7.55%
- Boulder: 8.845%
Specific Ownership Tax (SOT)
- Year 1: 2.10% of taxable value
- Year 2: 1.50% of taxable value
- Year 3: 1.20% of taxable value
- Year 4: 0.90% of taxable value
- Year 5+: 0.45% of taxable value
Additional Fees
- Title Fee: $8.20
- Registration Fee: Based on weight
- Bridge Safety Fee: $27
- Road Safety Fee: $16
- Clerk Hire Fee: $4
Regional Considerations
- RTD District: Additional 1% tax
- PPRTA: Extra 1% in Pikes Peak region
- Mountain Communities: Special rates
- Enterprise Zones: Potential benefits
Tax Exemptions
- Vehicles transferred between family members
- Qualified disabled veterans
- Certain nonprofit organizations
- Government vehicles
- Military personnel under specific conditions
Registration Requirements
- New Residents: 90 days to register
- Insurance: Mandatory coverage
- Emissions: Required in certain counties
- VIN Verification: Required for out-of-state vehicles
Emissions Requirements
- Testing Areas: Denver Metro and North Front Range
- Cost: $25
- Frequency: Every 2 years for newer vehicles
- Exemptions:
- Vehicles 7 model years or newer
- Electric vehicles
- 1975 and older vehicles
Money-Saving Tips
- Compare tax rates across counties
- Consider timing for SOT payments
- Research military exemptions
- Check for clean vehicle incentives
- Plan registration timing