Buying a Used Car in Missouri: Price, Sales Tax, Title and Fees Explained
When you compare used car prices, it helps to know what the advertised price includes and what gets added at purchase. Here's how it works when you buy from Allegiant Automotive in Springfield, MO.
The advertised price
Our advertised price is the price of the vehicle. It does not include tax, title, license or our dealer fee. We show this in a short disclosure on every vehicle page so there are no surprises.
The dealer fee
Allegiant Automotive charges an admin (dealer) fee of $521. It is not included in the advertised price or in the payment estimates on our site. We show it on the last step of our payment tools before you send your information, so you can plan for it.
Missouri sales tax
The Missouri Department of Revenue explains that you pay sales tax when you title the vehicle. The rate depends on where you live (state plus local taxes), so the easiest way to estimate it is the Department of Revenue's official vehicle sales tax calculator. If you have questions about your situation, ask our team.
Titling and registration in Missouri
According to the Missouri Department of Revenue:
- You have 30 days from the date of purchase to title the vehicle and pay sales tax.
- If you title late, there is a $25 penalty on the 31st day, increasing $25 for every additional 30 days, up to a maximum of $200.
- Temporary permits may be issued for 30 days from the purchase date.
The Department of Revenue lists the documents needed to title and register, including the signed-over certificate of title, the Application for Missouri Title and License (Form 108) and proof of insurance. Inspection requirements depend on the vehicle and county, so check the official page for your situation.
Ask for the out-the-door price
The clearest number to compare between vehicles is the out-the-door price: the price plus all fees, before or after your trade-in. On any of our vehicles, tap Get Out-the-Door Price and we'll send your out-the-door number. It takes three quick questions.
Paying cash vs. financing
- Paying cash or through your own bank: you'll pay the price, dealer fee, tax, title and registration, with no interest.
- Financing with us: you choose a down payment and term, and the amount you finance can include more of the purchase. The total cost includes interest, so compare the total, not only the monthly payment.
Common questions
Do I have to pay sales tax if I pay cash?
Missouri's Department of Revenue explains that sales tax is paid when you title the vehicle, regardless of how you pay for it. Use the official calculator to estimate the amount for your address.
Is the dealer fee negotiable or optional?
Our $521 admin fee applies to vehicle purchases and isn't included in the advertised price. Ask our team if you have questions about what's included.
Can I drive the vehicle home the same day?
Ask our team about temporary permits and what you'll need; the Department of Revenue explains that temporary permits may be issued for 30 days from the purchase date.
Putting it together
A simple way to budget:
- Start with the advertised price.
- Subtract your down payment and any trade-in equity.
- Add the $521 dealer fee.
- Estimate sales tax with the official calculator.
- Add title and registration costs from the Department of Revenue.
If you finance, our guide to APR, term and down payment shows how those choices change your payment. Have questions about anything on this list? Call us at 417-647-4177 or stop by 807 E Kearney St.