Arkansas Vehicle Sales Tax Calculator

How to Use the Arkansas Car Sales Tax Calculator

Using our Arkansas auto sales tax calculator is simple and straightforward:

Step 1: Select Your County

Choose the Arkansas county where you will register your vehicle from the dropdown menu. Tax rates vary by county, so this is important for accurate calculations.

Step 2: Enter Vehicle Price

Input the purchase price of your vehicle. This should be the amount you paid or will pay for the vehicle before taxes.

Step 3: Add Trade-in Value (Optional)

If you're trading in a vehicle, enter its value. This amount will be deducted from the purchase price before calculating tax, potentially saving you money.

Step 4: Calculate

Click the "Calculate Tax" button to see your results, including the total tax amount and breakdown of calculations. It's the fastest way to calculate Arkansas vehicle sales tax based on your vehicle price and local county rate.

How Vehicle Sales Tax Works in Arkansas

If you're trying to calculate sales tax on a car in Arkansas, it's important to understand how the system works. The final amount depends on your vehicle price, any trade-in value, and your local county tax rate.

Tax Structure

Arkansas uses a combined state and local tax system for vehicle sales. The state rate is 6.5%, but local counties and cities can add additional taxes, making total rates typically range from 6.5% to 11.5%.

What's Taxable

Tax is calculated on the purchase price minus any trade-in value. This means if you trade in a vehicle worth $5,000 on a $25,000 purchase, you only pay tax on $20,000.

Where to Pay

Vehicle sales tax is typically paid at the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration revenue office when you register your vehicle and obtain your title and license plate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Arkansas sales tax on a vehicle?

A sales tax is a tax you have to pay when buying a car, whether it’s new or used. It’s based on the price of the vehicle and is paid when you register the car with the state.

Do I pay tax on a private party sale?

Yes, Arkansas requires sales tax on all vehicle purchases, whether from a dealer or private party. The tax is based on the purchase price or fair market value, whichever is higher.

Can I reduce my tax with a trade-in?

Yes, the value of your trade-in vehicle is deducted from the purchase price before calculating tax. This can result in significant savings.

What if I bought the vehicle out of state?

If you purchase a vehicle outside Arkansas but register it in Arkansas, you'll need to pay Arkansas sales tax. However, you may receive credit for taxes paid in other states.

Are there any exemptions?

Certain transactions may be exempt, such as gifts between family members, vehicles transferred in divorce settlements, or vehicles purchased by qualifying disabled veterans. Check with your local revenue office for specific exemptions.

How accurate is this calculator?

Our calculator uses current tax rates and standard calculation methods. However, tax rates can change, and some special circumstances may affect your actual tax. Always verify with your local revenue office.

When do I need to pay the tax?

Vehicle sales tax must be paid within 30 days of purchase or before the vehicle can be registered and titled in Arkansas.

How much is Arkansas vehicle sales tax?

It depends on your county rate. Use the calculator above to get the exact amount based on the vehicle price and any trade‑in.