Illinois vs Wisconsin: Vehicle Registration Cost Comparison
Comparing what the same vehicles cost to register each year in Illinois versus Wisconsin, computed from both states' current official fee schedules:
| Scenario | Illinois | Wisconsin |
|---|---|---|
| New $45k gas SUV | $151.00/yr | $85.00/yr |
| 3-yr-old $35k gas car | $151.00/yr | $85.00/yr |
| New $55k EV | $251.00/yr | $260.00/yr |
| 10-yr-old $8k car | $151.00/yr | $85.00/yr |
For most vehicles, Wisconsin is the cheaper state to register in — though the gap varies a lot by vehicle value and age. Keep in mind annual registration is only part of the picture: sales/excise taxes at purchase, insurance, and local property taxes on vehicles can outweigh the registration difference.
Illinois in short
Illinois charges a flat $151 annual registration for passenger cars — one of the highest flat fees in the nation — and a $165 title fee. Battery EVs pay $251 total (a $100 surcharge); plug-in hybrids are excluded by statute and pay the standard $151.
Wisconsin in short
Wisconsin charges a flat $85 annual registration for automobiles, plus municipal or county wheel taxes in many jurisdictions ($10–$40). The title fee rose to $214.50 in October 2025. EVs pay an additional $175 and hybrids/plug-in hybrids $75.
All figures computed from official fee schedules — sources: https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/vehicles/basicfees.html — last reviewed 2026-07-16.