Registering a vehicle in New Hampshire can be a confusing process because it involves two separate fees: one paid to your local town or city, and one paid to the State. This calculator helps you estimate both components based on the standard NH "mill rates" and weight-based state fees.
*Note: This does not include title fees ($25), plate fees ($8), or municipal processing fees (usually $1-$3).
How NH Vehicle Registration Fees are Calculated
In the Granite State, your registration is essentially a property tax on your vehicle. The total cost is the sum of the Town Tax and the State Fee.
1. The Town Tax (Permit Fee)
The town portion is based on the original manufacturer's list price (MSRP) and the age of the vehicle. New Hampshire uses a "mill rate" system, which decreases as the vehicle gets older:
- Current Year & Prior: $18.00 per $1,000 of MSRP
- 2nd Year: $15.00 per $1,000 of MSRP
- 3rd Year: $12.00 per $1,000 of MSRP
- 4th Year: $9.00 per $1,000 of MSRP
- 5th Year: $6.00 per $1,000 of MSRP
- 6th Year and older: $3.00 per $1,000 of MSRP
2. The State Fee
The State of New Hampshire charges a fee based on the weight of the vehicle. For most passenger cars and light trucks, the tiers are as follows:
- 0 - 3,000 lbs: $31.20
- 3,001 - 5,000 lbs: $43.20
- 5,001 - 8,000 lbs: $55.20
- 8,001 - 73,280 lbs: Fees increase significantly based on gross weight.
Other Potential Costs
While the calculator above covers the primary registration costs, you should also be prepared for these additional one-time or special fees:
- Title Fee: $25.00 (charged when a vehicle is first titled in your name).
- New Plate Fee: $8.00 for standard plates.
- Vanity Plates: An additional $40.00 per year.
- Conservation (Moose) Plates: An additional $30.00 per year.
- Municipal Agent Fee: Most towns charge $1.00 to $3.00 to process the state portion locally.
Remember that New Hampshire registrations usually expire on the last day of the owner's birth month. If you are registering a vehicle for the first time mid-year, your fees may be pro-rated depending on how many months remain until your renewal month.