The cost to register a car in Georgia is not a single flat fee. It's primarily based on your vehicle's Ad Valorem Tax (a one-time tax based on the car's value), plus standard title and registration fees. For a brand new $30,000 car, expect to pay around $1,800 to $2,200 initially. For subsequent annual renewals, the cost drops significantly, typically ranging from $20 to $50, plus any local county fees.
The largest variable is the Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT), which is 6.6% of the vehicle's fair market value. If you're a new Georgia resident registering a car from out-of-state, you'll pay 3% of the value. The good news? This TAVT is a one-time payment that replaces the annual birthday ad valorem tax.
Here’s a breakdown of the standard fees you can expect:
| Fee Type | Standard Cost | Notes |
|---|
| Title Fee | $18.00 | Standard for obtaining a Georgia certificate of title. |
| License Plate Fee | $20.00 | Standard fee for a passenger vehicle plate. |
| Tag/Registration Fee | $8.00 | Annual registration fee. |
| Local County Fee | Varies (e.g., $5-$30) | Additional fee imposed by your specific county of residence. |
| Special Tag Fee | Varies (e.g., $25-$80) | Only applies if you choose a specialty or personalized license plate. |
Your annual renewal cost will be the $20 license plate fee plus the $8 registration fee, your local county fee, and any unpaid property taxes. You can get a precise estimate using the Georgia Department of Revenue's . Simply enter your vehicle's year, make, and model to see the estimated TAVT and total fees.
