Missouri Auto Sales Tax Calculator

Buying a car in Missouri involves understanding the state's sales tax rules. This calculator helps you determine the total cost of your vehicle purchase, including sales tax, based on your vehicle's price and county of purchase.

How Missouri Auto Sales Tax Works

Missouri imposes a state sales tax on the purchase of motor vehicles. The rate varies by county, with some counties adding additional local taxes. The base state sales tax rate is 4.225%.

Key Points

State sales tax rate: 4.225%
Some counties add local option taxes (rates vary)
Tax applies to the total purchase price (including options, fees, and accessories)
Used vehicles are taxed at the same rate as new vehicles

Formula

Total Sales Tax = (Vehicle Price + Options) × (State Tax Rate + Local Tax Rate)

Common County Tax Rates

County	Local Tax Rate	Total Tax Rate
St. Louis	1.5%	5.725%
Kansas City	1.5%	5.725%
Independence	1.5%	5.725%
Jackson	1.5%	5.725%
Other counties	0%	4.225%

Note

Always check with your local county for the most current tax rates, as they can change. This calculator provides estimates based on typical rates.

Worked Examples

Example 1: Vehicle in St. Louis County

Vehicle price: $25,000
Options: $2,000
Total before tax: $27,000
State tax: 4.225% of $27,000 = $1,141.125
Local tax (1.5%): $405
Total tax: $1,546.125
Total cost: $28,546.125

Example 2: Vehicle in Boone County

Vehicle price: $35,000
Options: $3,000
Total before tax: $38,000
State tax: 4.225% of $38,000 = $1,612.55
Local tax (0%): $0
Total tax: $1,612.55
Total cost: $39,612.55

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the base sales tax rate for vehicles in Missouri?: The base state sales tax rate for vehicles is 4.225%.
Do all counties in Missouri add local taxes to vehicle purchases?: No, only some counties add local option taxes. Common rates are 1.5% in St. Louis, Kansas City, Independence, and Jackson counties.
Are used cars taxed the same as new cars?: Yes, used vehicles are taxed at the same rate as new vehicles in Missouri.
Do I need to pay sales tax if I'm buying a car from a private seller?: Yes, even when buying from a private seller, you must pay Missouri's sales tax unless you qualify for an exemption.
Where can I find the most current sales tax rates?: Check with your local county tax office or the Missouri Department of Revenue for the most current rates.