Utah Vehicle Tax Overview
Utah applies a state and local sales tax to vehicle purchases, with additional fees varying by county and municipality. The state has specific requirements for registration and emissions testing based on vehicle location and type.
Sales Tax Structure
- State Rate: 4.85%
- Local Rates: Up to 3%
- Maximum Combined Rate: 7.85%
- Tax Base: Purchase price or fair market value
- Trade-In Credit: Full value deducted
Registration Fees (2024)
- Passenger Vehicles:
- Age-based Registration:
- 3 years or less: $150
- 4-8 years: $110
- 9-11 years: $80
- 12+ years: $60
- Title Fee: $6
- Plate Fee: $5
- Uniform Fee: Based on age and value
Emissions Testing
- Required Counties:
- Davis
- Salt Lake
- Utah
- Weber
- Cache
- Frequency: Annual or biennial
- Cost: $20-35
Tax Exemptions
- Disabled veterans (specific conditions)
- Government vehicles
- Certain nonprofit organizations
- Interstate commerce vehicles
- Clean fuel vehicles (partial)
- Gift transfers between family members
Registration Requirements
- New Residents: 60 days to register
- Insurance: Mandatory liability coverage
- Documentation:
- Utah driver's license
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle title
- Safety inspection (if required)
- Emissions test (if required)
Special Vehicle Categories
- Vintage Vehicles:
- 40+ years old
- Special plates available
- Modified inspection rules
- Clean Fuel Vehicles:
- Tax incentives available
- HOV lane access
- Special registration rates
Regional Considerations
- Urban Areas:
- Stricter emissions requirements
- Higher local tax rates
- Rural Areas:
- Different inspection rules
- Lower local tax rates
Safety Inspections
- Required for:
- Out-of-state vehicles
- Salvage vehicles
- Commercial vehicles
- Cost: $15-30
- Frequency: Upon registration
Money-Saving Tips
- Use trade-in credits
- Consider clean fuel vehicles
- Check for veteran benefits
- Research vintage registration
- Compare local tax rates
Common Questions
- Q: Do I need emissions testing?
A: Depends on county and vehicle age
- Q: How often do I renew registration?
A: Annually or on request
- Q: Can I register online?
A: Yes, if all requirements are met