What tax do you pay when buying a car in California person to person?

When buying a car from a private party in California, the buyer is responsible for paying sales tax on the purchase price. The sales tax rate in California is 7.25%. The buyer must pay the sales tax to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) when registering the car.

In addition to sales tax, the buyer may also be responsible for paying a vehicle registration fee, a smog inspection fee, and a title transfer fee. These fees vary depending on the type of vehicle and the county in which the vehicle is registered.

To calculate the sales tax on a car purchase, multiply the purchase price by 7.25%. For example, if you buy a car for $10,000, the sales tax would be $725.

You can pay the sales tax online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. If you pay online or by mail, you must include a copy of the car purchase agreement and a completed Form REG 256, Application for Title or Registration. If you pay in person, you must bring the original car purchase agreement, a completed Form REG 256, and the current registration certificate (if applicable).

For more information about buying a car from a private party in California, please visit the DMV website.