Alabama Title Transfer Fee Calculator
Transferring a vehicle title in Alabama costs $16.5 in title fees — but the real cost of a private-party purchase is usually the tax: Alabama charges 2% state casual sales tax on the purchase price plus local rates (often 1.5–4% more), collected by the county licensing official before registration. Budget the tax on top of the title and plate fees, and transfer within the state's deadline to avoid penalties.
Verified against official Alabama sources on 2026-07-17. How we verify fees.
Your purchase
- Tax on saleAlabama charges 2% state casual sales tax on the purchase price plus local rates (often 1.5–4% more), collected by the county licensing official before registration.$700.00
- Title fee$16.50
Estimate only — actual fees are set by your state and county at the time of registration. Data last reviewed 2026-07-17. This state's full local formula is not yet implemented; see the notes below the calculator.
Good to know
- Title fee is $15 state + $1.50–$3.00 designated-agent commission depending on who processes it.
What determines title transfer cost in Alabama?
- Purchase price (tax basis)
- Title fee ($16.5)
- Tax on private-party sales
- Family/gift exemptions
Frequently asked questions
How much does a title transfer cost in Alabama?
The title fee itself is $16.5. Alabama charges 2% state casual sales tax on the purchase price plus local rates (often 1.5–4% more), collected by the county licensing official before registration. Use the calculator above with your purchase price for the full picture.
Do I pay sales tax on a private-party car purchase in Alabama?
Yes — Alabama charges 2% state casual sales tax on the purchase price plus local rates (often 1.5–4% more), collected by the county licensing official before registration.
Are family transfers or gifted vehicles taxed in Alabama?
A bona fide gift with no lien attached is not taxed — write "GIFT" on the title and bill of sale. Family sales for any price are taxed like normal sales, and a gift with an assumed loan is taxed on the loan balance.
How long do I have to transfer a title in Alabama?
Register within 20 calendar days of purchase. Late registration adds a $15 penalty plus interest.
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Official Alabama resources
Estimates here are informational — the state is the only source of an official quote.
Data last reviewed 2026-07-17.