Mississippi Vehicle Tax Overview
Mississippi applies a sales tax to vehicle purchases and has specific registration requirements that vary by county. The state uses a straightforward tax structure but has various fees and requirements based on vehicle type and location.
Sales Tax Structure
- State Rate: 5%
- Tax Base: Purchase price or fair market value
- Private Sale Rate: 5%
- Trade-In Credit: Full value deducted
- Minimum Tax: None
Registration Fees (2024)
- New Registration: $14-$39
- Title Fee: $9
- License Plate: Varies by county
- Highway Privilege Tax: Based on value
- Ad Valorem Tax: Varies by county
Highway Privilege Tax
- Private Vehicles:
- $15 for vehicles under $5,000
- $30 for vehicles $5,000-$15,000
- $45 for vehicles $15,001-$25,000
- $75 for vehicles over $25,000
- Commercial Vehicles: Based on weight
Tax Exemptions
- Vehicles transferred between spouses
- Inherited vehicles
- Disabled veterans (specific conditions)
- Government vehicles
- Certain nonprofit organizations
- Interstate commerce vehicles
Registration Requirements
- New Residents: 30 days to register
- Insurance: Mandatory liability coverage
- Documentation:
- Mississippi driver's license
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle title
- Bill of sale
- Ad valorem tax receipt
Ad Valorem Tax
- Assessment: Based on value
- Rate: Varies by county
- Due Date: Registration month
- Payment: Required for registration
Special Vehicle Categories
- Antique Vehicles:
- 25+ years old
- Special plates available
- Reduced fees
- Farm Vehicles:
- Special registration options
- Modified fee structure
- Use restrictions
Regional Considerations
- Coast Counties:
- Hurricane damage checks
- Special insurance requirements
- Urban Areas:
- Higher ad valorem rates
- Additional local fees
Money-Saving Tips
- Compare county tax rates
- Use trade-in credits
- Check for veteran benefits
- Consider antique registration
- Research timing of purchase
Common Questions
- Q: How is ad valorem tax calculated?
A: Based on vehicle value and county rate
- Q: When do I renew registration?
A: Based on the first letter of last name
- Q: Can I pay taxes online?
A: Yes, through county tax collector websites