Oregon's Unique Vehicle Tax System
Oregon is one of the few states with no sales tax on vehicle purchases. However, there are other fees and taxes to consider when buying and registering a vehicle in Oregon.
Vehicle Purchase Fees
- Sales Tax: None (0%)
- Use Tax: None for vehicles
- Dealer Documentation Fee: Up to $200
- Private Sale: No transfer tax
Registration Fees (2024)
- Passenger Vehicles: $122 for two years
- Electric Vehicles: $172 for two years
- Hybrid Vehicles: $132 for two years
- Title Fee: $101
- Plate Fee: $24 (one-time)
Vehicle Privilege Tax (VPT)
- Rate: 0.5% of vehicle's retail price
- Applies to: New vehicle purchases only
- Exemptions: Used vehicles, private sales
- Collection: Paid by dealers at sale
Regional Requirements
- Portland Metro: Additional DEQ testing
- Medford/Ashland: Enhanced emissions standards
- Rural Areas: No emissions testing
- Border Areas: Special considerations
DEQ Requirements
- Testing Fee: $25
- Frequency: Every two years
- Required Areas: Portland Metro, Medford
- Exempt Vehicles:
- 2000 and newer (first 4 years)
- 1975 and older
- Electric vehicles
Special Programs
- Clean Vehicle Rebate: Up to $2,500
- Charge Ahead Rebate: Up to $5,000
- Veterans: Special plate options
- Disabled Persons: Parking permit program
Registration Requirements
- New Residents: 30 days to register
- Insurance: Mandatory liability coverage
- Documentation:
- Title or previous registration
- Valid ID
- Insurance proof
- DEQ certification (if applicable)
Money-Saving Tips
- Take advantage of no sales tax
- Research clean vehicle rebates
- Consider timing of DEQ testing
- Compare dealer documentation fees
- Check for veteran discounts