Illinois Auto Sales Tax Calculator

Buying a car in Illinois involves understanding the auto sales tax that applies to your purchase. Our calculator helps you determine the total tax you'll pay based on the vehicle's price and your location in Illinois.

How Illinois Auto Sales Tax Works

In Illinois, the auto sales tax rate is applied to the purchase price of a vehicle. The rate varies depending on whether you're buying a new or used car, and whether you're purchasing from a dealer or a private party.

The Illinois Department of Revenue sets the auto sales tax rates. As of 2023, the standard rate for new vehicles is 6.25%, while used vehicles are taxed at 3.75%.

Key Factors Affecting Auto Sales Tax

Vehicle Type: New cars are taxed at a higher rate than used vehicles
Purchase Location: Dealer purchases may have additional fees
County Tax: Some counties add local taxes
Exemptions: Certain vehicles may be tax-exempt

Additional Fees

In addition to the sales tax, you may need to pay:

Title fees
Registration fees
License fees
Documentation fees

Calculation Method

The Illinois auto sales tax is calculated by multiplying the vehicle's purchase price by the applicable tax rate. The formula is:

Sales Tax = Purchase Price × Tax Rate

For example, if you're buying a new car for $30,000, the sales tax would be:

$30,000 × 6.25% = $1,875

The total amount you'll pay would be the purchase price plus the sales tax.

Worked Examples

Example 1: New Vehicle Purchase

Purchase Price: $25,000
Tax Rate: 6.25%
Sales Tax: $25,000 × 0.0625 = $1,562.50
Total Cost: $25,000 + $1,562.50 = $26,562.50

Example 2: Used Vehicle Purchase

Purchase Price: $12,000
Tax Rate: 3.75%
Sales Tax: $12,000 × 0.0375 = $450
Total Cost: $12,000 + $450 = $12,450

Note: These examples don't include additional fees like title, registration, or documentation fees which may apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current Illinois auto sales tax rate?: The current rate is 6.25% for new vehicles and 3.75% for used vehicles, as set by the Illinois Department of Revenue.
Do I need to pay sales tax when buying a used car?: Yes, you pay sales tax on used cars at the lower rate of 3.75%, unless the vehicle is exempt or you're buying from a private party.
Are there any exemptions from Illinois auto sales tax?: Yes, certain vehicles like motorcycles under 250cc, electric assist bicycles, and some classic cars may be exempt from sales tax.
Do I need to pay additional fees besides sales tax?: Yes, you'll typically need to pay title fees, registration fees, and documentation fees when purchasing a vehicle in Illinois.
Is the Illinois auto sales tax rate the same across all counties?: The base rate is the same, but some counties may add local taxes. Check with your local tax authority for specific rates.