RegistryFee

Pennsylvania Title Transfer Fee Calculator

Transferring a vehicle title in Pennsylvania costs $72 in title fees — but the real cost of a private-party purchase is usually the tax: 6% sales tax (7% in Allegheny County, 8% in Philadelphia) on the purchase price — but Revenue substitutes fair market value if your price looks understated (below ~80% of average). Budget the tax on top of the title and plate fees, and transfer within the state's deadline to avoid penalties.

Verified against official Pennsylvania 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% sales tax (7% in Allegheny County, 8% in Philadelphia) on the purchase price — but Revenue substitutes fair market value if your price looks understated (below ~80% of average).
      $2,100.00
    • Title fee
      $72.00
    One-time total: $2,172.00

    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.

    Good to know

    • Lien recording adds $36.

    What determines title transfer cost in Pennsylvania?

    • Purchase price (tax basis)
    • Title fee ($72)
    • Tax on private-party sales
    • Family/gift exemptions

    Frequently asked questions

    How much does a title transfer cost in Pennsylvania?

    The title fee itself is $72. 6% sales tax (7% in Allegheny County, 8% in Philadelphia) on the purchase price — but Revenue substitutes fair market value if your price looks understated (below ~80% of average). Use the calculator above with your purchase price for the full picture.

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

    Yes — 6% sales tax (7% in Allegheny County, 8% in Philadelphia) on the purchase price — but Revenue substitutes fair market value if your price looks understated (below ~80% of average).

    Are family transfers or gifted vehicles taxed in Pennsylvania?

    Genuine gifts are tax-exempt regardless of relationship — attach Form MV-13ST (Affidavit of Gift). Don't list a $1 price; that triggers a Revenue review instead.

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

    Apply for title within 20 days of the sale (75 Pa.C.S. §1103.1). No statutory late fee for private buyers.

    More Pennsylvania calculators

    Title Transfer calculators for other states

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    title transfer in nearby states

    Official Pennsylvania resources

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

    Data last reviewed 2026-07-17.