About CT Car Tax

Why this site exists

Connecticut is one of the few states that taxes cars as property every year, and the bill can be a surprise, especially after buying a new vehicle or moving to a different town. Official information is spread across 169 town websites and state statutes. CT Car Tax brings it together in one plain-English guide and a free calculator, so residents can understand and plan for their bill before it arrives.

How the calculator works

The calculator applies the same formula assessors use: the vehicle’s value times the 70% assessment ratio, times the town’s motor vehicle mill rate divided by 1,000. Vehicle value comes from one of two places you choose:

• Original MSRP reduced by a standard age-based depreciation schedule, or
• The assessed value printed on your most recent tax bill, which is the most accurate option.

We never guess your car’s value with AI or store what you enter. All calculations run in your browser.

Sources

• Town mill rates compiled from rates published by Connecticut municipalities. Always confirm the current rate with your town tax collector.
• Connecticut General Statutes on motor vehicle assessment, including the 70% assessment ratio and the state cap on vehicle mill rates.
• Vehicle identification data from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) vPIC database.

Accuracy and corrections

Results are estimates. Your actual bill can differ because of special taxing districts, exemptions, prorations for vehicles registered after October 1, and adjustments your assessor makes. If you find an error or an outdated mill rate, please let us know. Corrections are reviewed and published promptly.

Independence

CT Car Tax is an independent site. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the State of Connecticut, the Department of Motor Vehicles, or any municipality. The site is free to use and is supported by advertising.