Arkansas charges sales and use tax (collected by dfa at registration) of 6.5% at the state level, and local jurisdictions add their own, which brings a typical vehicle to about 9%. A trade-in does reduce the taxable price, which is real money on the deal.
Sales tax on vehicles is paid to DFA when the vehicle is registered (within 30 days), at the state rate plus the city and county rates of the buyer's registration address.
Typical local 2.5% = Pulaski County 1.0% + Little Rock 1.5%. Combined rates in Arkansas exceed 11% in a few cities; 5.0% is a practical maximum for the local share (not confirmed to the exact top rate).
Manufacturer rebates are not deducted from the taxable price in Arkansas (DFA treats them as part of the consideration); dealer discounts reduce the price.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Title | $10.00 |
| Registration (weight-based) | ~$28 |
| Lien filing fee (if a lien is recorded) | $0.50 |
Lease tax applies to each monthly payment rather than to the full price of the car, so you pay it as you go.
Pick your city for the exact combined rate where you register, plus what title and registration run there.
Arkansas charges 6.5% at the state level and local jurisdictions add more, so a typical combined rate on a vehicle is about 9% and can reach 11.5% at the high end. The rate is set by where you live, so pick your city above for the exact figure.
Tax is computed on the price less the value of a vehicle traded in as part of the same transaction (Ark. Code 26-52-510).
Title is $10.00. Passenger cars: 3,000 lbs or less $17; 3,001-4,500 lbs $25; 4,501 lbs and over $30; plus $2.50 validation decal. A 3,500 lb car pays $25 + $2.50.
Yes, at $129. Statutory maximum documentary fee $129 (Ark. Code 23-112-1001 et seq. as amended); most dealers charge the cap. Cap figure from CarEdge/True Lane 2026 (secondary; statute not fetched in this run).
Tax applies to each monthly payment rather than the whole price of the car, so the tax is spread across the lease.
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.