The cost of a car tag (license plate) in Mississippi is not a single flat fee. It's primarily based on your vehicle's assessed value and age, with a typical cost ranging from $14 to $500+ for the first-time registration. The total you pay consists of the registration fee and an ad valorem tax (a tax based on value). For a brand-new $30,000 car, you can expect to pay around $1,200 initially, while renewing a 5-year-old car might cost under $100.
The calculation breaks down into two main parts:
- Ad Valorem Tax: This is the largest variable cost. It's calculated as 3% of your vehicle's assessed value. The assessed value is determined by the Mississippi State Tax Commission, typically starting at the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) and depreciating annually.
- Registration Fee: This is a standard fee. For a standard passenger vehicle, it's $14 for one year or $28 for two years.
Additional fees may apply, such as a $13 title fee, a $5 lien fee if applicable, and a small highway patrol fee. The total cost drops significantly after the first year as the vehicle's assessed value depreciates.
Here is a table with estimated cost examples for different vehicle scenarios:
| Vehicle Scenario | Estimated Assessed Value | Ad Valorem Tax (3%) | Registration Fee (1 yr) | Estimated Total Cost |
|---|
| New Car, $40,000 MSRP | $40,000 | $1,200 | $14 | ~$1,214 |
| 3-Year-Old Car, Original MSRP $25,000 | $15,000 | $450 | $14 | ~$464 |
| 10-Year-Old Car, Minimum Tax Applies | $6,700 | $201 | $14 | ~$215 |
| Motorcycle (> 500cc) | Varies by Value | 3% of Value | $25 | Varies |
| Light Truck (Commercial) | Varies by Value | 3% of Value | $19 | Varies |
The best way to get an exact amount is to use the online fee calculator provided by the Mississippi Department of Revenue or contact your local County Tax Collector's office with your vehicle identification number (VIN).
