Georgia car tax
Georgia charges a one-time 7% Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT) when you title a car. For cars bought since March 1, 2013, this replaces both sales tax and the yearly car tax. Cars titled before then still pay yearly ad valorem tax with registration.
Cars titled on or after March 1, 2013 pay no yearly ad valorem tax (TAVT was paid once). Older cars still pay a yearly tax of fair market value × 40% assessment × local millage, due with registration by the owner's birthday. §48-5-7).
Buying a car in Georgia: one-time tax
Georgia Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT) — 7%. Your trade-in is subtracted before tax.
7% of fair market value (DOR value or the bill of sale, if higher). New residents pay 3% and family transfers 0.5%. Replaces sales tax and yearly ad valorem tax.
Registration and due dates
Registration is $20 a year. A title costs $18.
TAVT is paid once, within 30 days of purchase, when you title the car. For older cars, the yearly ad valorem tax is due with registration by the owner's birthday, with a 10% penalty after that.
Cut what your car costs in Georgia
Car tax is set by your town, but your loan and insurance aren't. Refinancing a car loan at a lower rate often saves more each year than the tax itself.
Questions
Do I pay car tax every year in Georgia?
Not on a car titled since March 2013. You pay 7% TAVT once. Older cars still pay a yearly ad valorem tax.
How much is TAVT?
7% of the car's fair market value, paid when titling (3% for new residents).
Is TAVT deductible?
It is a one-time tax, not a yearly value-based tax. Ask a tax advisor before deducting it.
Sources
Last checked October 14, 2026. Rates are for passenger cars owned by individuals; leased, business and specialty vehicles can differ. Confirm with your tax collector or commissioner of the revenue.