Where numbers come from
We only use primary sources: state statutes and administrative codes, fee schedules published by DMVs, revenue departments and licensing boards, and publications from bodies like NCARB and the IRS. Other calculators, forums and news articles can point us toward a change, but a figure isn't published until we've found it in an official document.
Each calculator lists its sources, and each line in a result links to the source it came from. When a figure depends on local rules, for example county sales taxes or city fees, we either model the options the state publishes or say plainly what we leave out.
Check dates
Every page shows the date we last compared it with its sources. We re-check:
- whenever an agency announces a fee change we know about,
- at the start of each year and each state fiscal year (usually July 1), when many fees change,
- at least every six months otherwise, and
- whenever a reader reports a problem.
An automated check also flags broken source links and pages whose check date is getting old.
Unverified data
Some older pages on this site were built from secondary data that we can no longer vouch for. Until each one has been re-checked against the official source, it shows no figures, points you to the official board or agency, and is kept out of search results. We'd rather send you to the source than show a number we can't back up.
What the calculators don't include
- Vehicle: dealer documentation and processing fees, specialty and personalized plates, late penalties, and most yearly local property taxes (we note them where they apply). Tax on the purchase depends on your address, and the calculators use the rates the state publishes.
- Licensing: late or reinstatement fees, and the cost of the continuing education courses themselves.
- Tax: state income tax unless we say so, credits, and situations that need a professional, such as multi-entity businesses.
Results are estimates for planning. The agency's bill is final.
Testing
Calculators are covered by automated tests that check worked examples against the sources, for example each state's own fee examples, so a code change can't quietly break a fee.
Data changelog
Covering 14 vehicle states and the ARE section so far. Newest first.