North Dakota used car dealer paperwork and sales tax guide
How North Dakota sales tax works on a used-car deal, how trade-ins and dealer fees are treated, and the title forms and notices a North Dakota dealer prints.
Last checked November 14, 2026
This is a plain-language summary of how a used-car deal works out in North Dakota: 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 North Dakota deal.
North Dakota tax and fees at a glance
| Item | North Dakota |
|---|---|
| State tax | 5% state rate |
| Who pays it | Buyer, at titling or registration |
| Trade-in | Reduces the tax |
| Documentary fee | Not part of the taxable amount |
| Service contract | Not taxed |
| Starting title fee in DMS Apex | $5 |
How North Dakota sales tax is worked out
North Dakota: the 5% motor vehicle excise tax is paid to the NDDOT at titling on the price less the trade-in, so the amount shown is an estimate and is not added to what is due now. Document fees, title and registration fees, and a service contract are not part of the taxable price. Title fee starts at $5.
North Dakota paperwork a dealer prints
DMS Apex prints these documents for a North Dakota deal, all in black and white:
- Buyer's Order
- Buyers Guide
Step-by-step form guides
- SFN 2872 Application for Title and/or Registration, Purchaser's Certificate: how to fill it out
This is general information, not legal or tax advice. North Dakota rules change: confirm current requirements with the North Dakota Department of Transportation or the North Dakota Office of State Tax Commissioner.
Common questions
How much is sales tax on a used car in North Dakota?
5% state rate. A trade-in reduces the taxable amount. See the table above and confirm the current rate with the North Dakota Department of Transportation or the North Dakota Office of State Tax Commissioner.
Does a trade-in lower the tax in North Dakota?
Yes. In North Dakota the trade-in allowance reduces the amount the tax is figured on.
Is the dealer fee taxed in North Dakota?
No. In DMS Apex the documentary fee is not part of the taxable amount for North Dakota.
Does DMS Apex print North Dakota dealer forms?
Yes. It prints Buyer's Order, Buyers Guide.
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