Utah used car dealer paperwork and sales tax guide
How Utah sales tax works on a used-car deal, how trade-ins and dealer fees are treated, and the title forms and notices a Utah dealer prints.
Last checked November 14, 2026
This is a plain-language summary of how a used-car deal works out in Utah: 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 Utah deal.
Utah tax and fees at a glance
| Item | Utah |
|---|---|
| State tax | 4.85% state rate plus local tax |
| Who pays it | Collected by the dealer |
| Trade-in | Reduces the tax |
| Dealer documentation fee | Part of the taxable amount |
| Service contract | Taxed |
| Starting title fee in DMS Apex | $6 |
How Utah sales tax is worked out
Utah: the dealer collects the 4.85% state tax plus the local tax of the dealership (enter the combined local rate in Settings) on the price, the document service fee, extended warranties and other charges, less a vehicle-for-vehicle trade-in. Manufacturer rebates and GAP are not taxed. Utah requires the Transaction Disclosure Form (TC-466) on every retail sale and a sign stating the dealer documentation fee. Title fee starts at $6.
Required wording beside the dealer fee
Utah requires this wording where the dealer fee appears. The Buyer's Order prints it.
The dealer documentary service fee shown in your contract of sale represents costs to the dealer for preparing and processing documents and other services related to the sale or lease of your vehicle. These fees are not set or mandated by statute or rule.
Utah paperwork a dealer prints
DMS Apex prints these documents for a Utah deal, all in black and white:
- Buyer's Order with the documentation fee statement
- Buyers Guide
Step-by-step form guides
- TC-656 Vehicle Application for Utah Title: how to fill it out
This is general information, not legal or tax advice. Utah rules change: confirm current requirements with the Utah State Tax Commission Motor Vehicle Division.
Common questions
How much is sales tax on a used car in Utah?
4.85% state rate plus local tax. A trade-in reduces the taxable amount. See the table above and confirm the current rate with the Utah State Tax Commission Motor Vehicle Division.
Does a trade-in lower the tax in Utah?
Yes. In Utah the trade-in allowance reduces the amount the tax is figured on.
Is the dealer fee taxed in Utah?
Yes. In DMS Apex the dealer documentation fee is part of the taxable amount for Utah.
Does DMS Apex print Utah dealer forms?
Yes. It prints Buyer's Order with the documentation fee statement, Buyers Guide.
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