RegistryFee

North Dakota Title Transfer Fee Calculator

Transferring a vehicle title in North Dakota costs $5 in title fees — but the real cost of a private-party purchase is usually the tax: 5% motor vehicle excise tax on the purchase price less trade-in — with no local add-ons on vehicles. Budget the tax on top of the title and plate fees, and transfer within the state's deadline to avoid penalties.

Verified against official North Dakota 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
      5% motor vehicle excise tax on the purchase price less trade-in — with no local add-ons on vehicles.
      $1,750.00
    • Title fee
      $5.00
    One-time total: $1,755.00

    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 North Dakota?

    • Purchase price (tax basis)
    • Title fee ($5)
    • Tax on private-party sales
    • Family/gift exemptions

    Frequently asked questions

    How much does a title transfer cost in North Dakota?

    The title fee itself is $5. 5% motor vehicle excise tax on the purchase price less trade-in — with no local add-ons on vehicles. Use the calculator above with your purchase price for the full picture.

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

    Yes — 5% motor vehicle excise tax on the purchase price less trade-in — with no local add-ons on vehicles.

    Are family transfers or gifted vehicles taxed in North Dakota?

    Exempt between spouses, parent and child, grandparent and grandchild, and siblings, plus inheritance and divorce transfers within a year of the decree.

    How long do I have to transfer a title in North Dakota?

    Apply for title within 30 days of receiving the endorsed title — violating it is a class B misdemeanor and can suspend the registration.

    More North Dakota calculators

    Title Transfer calculators for other states

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    Official North Dakota resources

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

    Data last reviewed 2026-07-17.