Car Sales Tax by state

Tennessee Car Sales Tax

Tennessee car sales tax is about 9.5% (7% state + ~2.5% local). See what you'll pay on a $30,000 car and how it affects your payment.

Tennessee (TN)
9.5%
7% state + about 2.5% local
Average across states
5.9%
Rank (highest = #1)
#3 of 51

Buying a $30,000 car in Tennessee

Sales tax (~9.5%)
$2,850
Registration / yr
~$30
Insurance / mo
$167
Loan payment*
$591/mo

*$3,000 down, 7% APR, 60 months, tax rolled into the loan.

Tennessee's local tax on vehicles applies only to the first $1,600 of the price.

These are estimates for planning. Rates and fees change and vary by county and vehicle — confirm with your state motor vehicle agency.

Frequently asked questions

What is the sales tax on a car in Tennessee?

About 9.5% in total: 7% statewide plus roughly 2.5% in typical local taxes. Tennessee's local tax on vehicles applies only to the first $1,600 of the price.

How much tax will I pay on a $30,000 car in Tennessee?

Roughly $2,850, before any trade-in credit or state-specific caps.

Does a trade-in reduce car sales tax in Tennessee?

In most states the trade-in value is subtracted before tax is charged, which can save hundreds of dollars. Check with your state DMV for the exact rules.

More for Tennessee

Car Sales Tax in other states

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