When you’re looking to purchase a new car, especially with attractive deals on the table, you’ll often encounter the phrase “tax, title, and license fees not included.” This common disclaimer might leave you wondering about the actual expenses involved beyond the vehicle’s price tag. So, let’s break down the costs and focus on a key question for Wisconsin car buyers: How Much Is It To Register A Car In Wisconsin?
Thinking of buying a new car? Explore our new vehicle inventory today!
In Wisconsin, when you purchase a vehicle, the state mandates certain standard fees. Understanding these costs is crucial for budgeting and avoiding surprises. Here are the primary fees you can expect to pay when registering a standard car in Wisconsin:
- Sales Tax: 5%
- Original Title or Title Transfer Fee: $164.50
- Vehicle Registration Fee: $85
It’s important to note that while these are typical fees for a standard passenger vehicle, they can vary based on the type of vehicle. This guide focuses on the costs associated with registering and owning a standard car in Wisconsin.
Understanding Wisconsin Car Registration Fees: Taxes, Titles, and Annual Registration
When calculating the total cost of your vehicle, remember to factor in these essential fees. Let’s delve deeper into each category:
Sales Tax on Vehicle Purchases in Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s sales tax for vehicle purchases is 5%. This means you will pay at least 5% of your vehicle’s purchase price as sales tax. It’s also important to be aware that some counties may impose an additional county tax of up to 0.5%, and stadium taxes can add up to 0.1% in certain areas. These additional taxes, while small, should be considered when estimating the total cost.
Title Fees in Wisconsin
The title fee covers the cost of officially recording vehicle ownership. In Wisconsin, the fee for an original title or transferring a title for a standard car is $164.50. If you ever need to replace a lost title, the replacement fee is $20. Notably, transferring a vehicle title to a surviving spouse or registered domestic partner is exempt from fees. For low-speed vehicles, the title fee is slightly less at $157.
Annual Vehicle Registration Fees in Wisconsin
Every year, vehicle owners in Wisconsin must renew their vehicle registration. The annual registration fee for a standard automobile is $85. Owners of hybrid and electric vehicles should be aware of slightly higher fees. Hybrid vehicles incur a $75 surcharge on top of the standard registration fee, while electric vehicles have an additional $100 fee annually.
Why are Car Registration Fees Necessary?
These tax, title, and registration fees collected by the State of Wisconsin play a vital role in funding the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and supporting its operational budget. These funds contribute to maintaining roads, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure throughout the state, benefiting all drivers in Wisconsin.
Curious about car maintenance? Learn if a bad battery can stop a moving car.
Additional Potential Fees
While the fees outlined above are the primary ones, you might encounter other minor charges related to vehicle ownership. For instance, renewing your registration in person at a DMV customer service center incurs a small $3 service fee, while initial registrations have a $5 service fee.
Furthermore, authorized service providers handling title and registration services can charge service fees. These are capped at $10 for registration renewal and $19.50 for title transactions. Dealerships may also have dealer service fees, which can be up to $99. It’s always wise to inquire about all potential fees when purchasing a vehicle to get a complete picture of the costs involved in registering your car in Wisconsin.
Share this page
Explore More from EVS Auto Group
[
Used Car Laws in Wisconsin
](https://www.buyevscars.com/blog/how-long-do-i-have-to-return-a-used-car-in-wisconsin/)
[
When will the COVID-19 vaccine be widely available for Milwaukee residents?
](https://www.buyevscars.com/blog/when-will-the-covid-19-vaccine-be-widely-available-for-milwaukee-residents/)
