RegistryFee

Missouri Title Transfer Fee Calculator

Transferring a vehicle title in Missouri costs $17.5 in title fees — but the real cost of a private-party purchase is usually the tax: 4.225% state sales tax plus local rates on the purchase price (less trade-in), paid when you title. Budget the tax on top of the title and plate fees, and transfer within the state's deadline to avoid penalties.

Verified against official Missouri 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
      4.225% state sales tax plus local rates on the purchase price (less trade-in), paid when you title.
      $1,478.75
    • Title fee
      $17.50
    One-time total: $1,496.25

    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

    • Itemizes as $8.50 title + $9.00 processing fee (processing rose from $6 in August 2025).

    What determines title transfer cost in Missouri?

    • Purchase price (tax basis)
    • Title fee ($17.5)
    • Tax on private-party sales
    • Family/gift exemptions

    Frequently asked questions

    How much does a title transfer cost in Missouri?

    The title fee itself is $17.5. 4.225% state sales tax plus local rates on the purchase price (less trade-in), paid when you title. Use the calculator above with your purchase price for the full picture.

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

    Yes — 4.225% state sales tax plus local rates on the purchase price (less trade-in), paid when you title.

    Are family transfers or gifted vehicles taxed in Missouri?

    Gifts with no purchase price owe no sales tax — use a notarized General Affidavit. Family sales for money are taxed normally.

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

    Title and pay tax within 30 days: $25 penalty on day 31, another $25 per additional 30 days, capped at $200.

    More Missouri calculators

    Title Transfer calculators for other states

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    Official Missouri resources

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

    Data last reviewed 2026-07-17.