How Michigan DMV Fees Are Calculated in 2026

Michigan's registration system is value-based — fees start higher when a vehicle is new and decrease each year as the vehicle depreciates. The title fee is just $15 and Michigan's 6% sales tax is statewide with no county variation.

How Michigan registration fees work

Michigan calculates annual registration as a percentage of the vehicle's original list price (MSRP), declining year over year. A new $40,000 vehicle pays roughly $1,020 in its first year; the same car at 10 years old pays about $200. The minimum fee is $30.

Michigan title fee — $15

At just $15, Michigan has one of the cheapest title fees in the country. Applies to new and used purchases and all ownership transfers.

Sales tax — 6% statewide, no county variation

Michigan has a clean, flat 6% sales tax with no county additions. Unlike Illinois or Ohio, you pay the same rate anywhere in the state. Sales tax is on the purchase price minus trade-in.

EV fee — $135/year

Michigan charges $135 additional annual registration for electric vehicles, replacing lost fuel tax revenue.

No annual inspections

Michigan does not require annual safety or emissions inspections for passenger vehicles — a significant cost advantage over states like New York, Pennsylvania, and North Carolina.