RegistryFee

Michigan Title Transfer Fee Calculator

Transferring a vehicle title in Michigan costs $15 in title fees — but the real cost of a private-party purchase is usually the tax: 6% use tax. The SOS collects on your stated price, but Treasury cross-checks against NADA retail value and bills the difference if your price looks low. Budget the tax on top of the title and plate fees, and transfer within the state's deadline to avoid penalties.

Verified against official Michigan sources on 2026-07-17. How we verify fees.

Your purchase

Estimated annual cost
$0.00/ year
    One-time fees (first registration)
    • Tax on sale
      6% use tax. The SOS collects on your stated price, but Treasury cross-checks against NADA retail value and bills the difference if your price looks low.
      $2,100.00
    • Title fee
      $15.00
    One-time total: $2,115.00

    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.

    What determines title transfer cost in Michigan?

    • Purchase price (tax basis)
    • Title fee ($15)
    • Tax on private-party sales
    • Family/gift exemptions

    Frequently asked questions

    How much does a title transfer cost in Michigan?

    The title fee itself is $15. 6% use tax. The SOS collects on your stated price, but Treasury cross-checks against NADA retail value and bills the difference if your price looks low. Use the calculator above with your purchase price for the full picture.

    Do I pay sales tax on a private-party car purchase in Michigan?

    Yes — 6% use tax. The SOS collects on your stated price, but Treasury cross-checks against NADA retail value and bills the difference if your price looks low.

    Are family transfers or gifted vehicles taxed in Michigan?

    One of the broadest exemptions in the country: spouse, parents, children, siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, step-relations, and in-laws are all use-tax exempt. The $15 title fee still applies.

    How long do I have to transfer a title in Michigan?

    Title within 15 days of the sale or pay a $15 late fee.

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    Title Transfer calculators for other states

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    title transfer in nearby states

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    Official Michigan resources

    Estimates here are informational — the state is the only source of an official quote.

    Michigan Secretary of State ↗☎ (888) 767-6424michigan.gov — fee source ↗michigan.gov — fee source ↗

    Data last reviewed 2026-07-17.