Vehicle tax in Houston runs about 6.25% all in, the rate for Harris County. Texas credits your trade-in, so you are taxed on the price after it comes off.
| Line | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Texas Motor vehicle sales tax (6.25%, paid at registration) | $2,187.50 |
| Doc Fee (typical for the state) | $150.00 |
| Title fee | $33.00 |
| Registration (estimate) | $74.25 |
| Processing and handling fee (annual) | $4.75 |
| County local fees (road & bridge, child safety) (annual; $0-$31.50 by county) | $11.50 |
Estimates on a $35,000 new car registered in Houston, with no trade-in. Your exact figures depend on the car, the dealer, and the day.
About 6.25% all in for Harris County. Texas uses one statewide rate on vehicles, so it does not change by city.
Tax is due on the total consideration less the value of a motor vehicle taken in trade (Tax Code 152.002).
Yes. Partner dealers ship, and a car shipped out of the selling state carries no tax there; you pay Texas tax when you register it. Any shipping charge is shown on your deal before you sign.
Texas sets no cap; dealers typically charge around $150. No statutory cap, but the fee must be 'reasonable'; dealers charging more than $225 must notify the Office of Consumer Credit Commissioner (safe-harbor threshold effective July 2024, secondary). Typical $150 per CarEdge (secondary).
Rates, fees, and rules change. These figures are estimates for planning, not tax advice; confirm the final numbers with the dealer and your state's motor vehicle agency before you buy.