Doc fees, title fees, and registration costs vary dramatically by state. Some states cap dealer fees at $85. Others allow $999 or more. Here's what to expect in every state.
Get My Fees ReviewedThe doc fee is charged for processing paperwork. Some states cap it by law — others allow dealers to charge whatever they want. Always ask for the doc fee upfront and factor it into your out-the-door price negotiation.
| State | Doc Fee Cap | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California | $85 (capped) | Among the lowest caps in the country |
| New York | $175 (capped) | State regulated |
| Texas | No cap (avg. $150–$200) | Unregulated but competitive market keeps fees lower |
| Florida | No cap (avg. $500–$999) | Some of the highest doc fees in the country |
| Utah | No cap (avg. $299–$499) | Varies by dealer group |
| Colorado | No cap (avg. $200–$400) | Negotiable in most cases |
| Arizona | No cap (avg. $399–$499) | Push back — often reducible |
| Nevada | No cap (avg. $299–$499) | Negotiable |
| Oregon | No cap (avg. $150–$300) | No sales tax — lower total cost |
| Washington | No cap (avg. $150–$200) | Competitive market keeps fees reasonable |
| Illinois | No cap (avg. $150–$300) | Varies widely by dealer |
| Ohio | No cap (avg. $250–$400) | Negotiable |
| Michigan | No cap (avg. $200–$300) | Home of major automakers — competitive market |
| Georgia | No cap (avg. $500–$700) | Higher than average — push back firmly |
| North Carolina | $599 (capped) | State regulated cap |
These states charge zero sales tax on vehicle purchases — a significant savings on any purchase:
Oregon
0% sales tax
Montana
0% sales tax
New Hampshire
0% sales tax
Delaware
0% sales tax
Alaska
0% state tax
Note: You pay sales tax in the state where you register the vehicle — not where you buy it. If you live in a no-tax state, you save the sales tax even if you buy out of state.
We review every line of your deal sheet and eliminate every fee that shouldn't be there — no matter what state you're in.
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