Montana car tax
Montana has no sales tax and no value-based state car tax. Owners pay a flat registration fee by age: $217 for cars 4 years old or less, $87 for 5–10 years, and $28 for 11+ years. Counties may add a voter-approved local option tax.
MCA 61-3-321(2). Montana has no property tax on cars; instead the yearly light vehicle registration fee depends on age: $217 for cars 4 years old or less, $87 for 5–10 years, $28 for 11+ years (or a one-time permanent registration). Cars with an MSRP over $150,000 that are 10 years old or less pay $825 more. Some counties add a local option vehicle tax (MCA 61-3-537); those amounts are not included.
Montana car tax calculator
- Vehicle age 2 yr: $217 (flat fee set by the state)
A flat amount set by state law for the car's age. Your bill may be prorated for months you owned the car.
How the tax drops as a $35,000 car ages in Montana
Same car, each year of ownership. The rate falls as the car gets older.
Registration and due dates
The age-based fee is described above, plus title, plate, and county fees.
Paid every year with registration renewal at the county treasurer.
Cut what your car costs in Montana
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
Is there sales tax on cars in Montana?
No. Montana has no general sales tax.
How much is Montana registration?
$217 for cars up to 4 years old, $87 for 5–10 years, $28 for 11 years and older, plus county option taxes.
What is permanent registration?
Cars 11 years or older can be registered permanently for a one-time fee instead of renewing every year.
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.