Maine used car dealer paperwork and sales tax guide
How Maine sales tax works on a used-car deal, how trade-ins and dealer fees are treated, and the title forms and notices a Maine dealer prints.
Last checked November 14, 2026
This is a plain-language summary of how a used-car deal works out in Maine: the sales tax, what happens to a trade-in, how dealer fees are treated, and the paperwork a dealer prints. DMS Apex uses these same rules to work out each Maine deal.
Maine tax and fees at a glance
| Item | Maine |
|---|---|
| State tax | 5.5% state rate |
| Who pays it | Collected by the dealer |
| Trade-in | Reduces the tax |
| Document preparation fee | Part of the taxable amount |
| Service contract | Taxed |
| Starting title fee in DMS Apex | $33 |
How Maine sales tax is worked out
Maine: the dealer collects 5.5% on the price, the document preparation fee, service contracts on automobiles and trucks, and other charges, less a like-kind trade-in. Manufacturer rebates do not reduce the price; GAP and title fees are not taxed. A dealer must post the document preparation fee on the vehicle. Title fee starts at $33. Maine also requires a disclosure statement affixed to a used vehicle (10 M.R.S. 1475): known defects, damage, previous use and deposit-return policy.
Maine paperwork a dealer prints
DMS Apex prints these documents for a Maine deal, all in black and white:
- Buyer's Order
- Buyers Guide
This is general information, not legal or tax advice. Maine rules change: confirm current requirements with the Maine Secretary of State Bureau of Motor Vehicles or Maine Revenue Services.
Common questions
How much is sales tax on a used car in Maine?
5.5% state rate. A trade-in reduces the taxable amount. See the table above and confirm the current rate with the Maine Secretary of State Bureau of Motor Vehicles or Maine Revenue Services.
Does a trade-in lower the tax in Maine?
Yes. In Maine the trade-in allowance reduces the amount the tax is figured on.
Is the dealer fee taxed in Maine?
Yes. In DMS Apex the document preparation fee is part of the taxable amount for Maine.
Does DMS Apex print Maine dealer forms?
Yes. It prints Buyer's Order, Buyers Guide.
Run your lot, deals and paperwork in one place
DMS Apex is $28 a month with a 15-day free trial. It prints your state's forms and works out your state's tax.
Start your 15-day free trial