I'm a Canadian buying and exporting a used car through a private sale in CA. Do I have to pay CA sales tax?

Question

I will be flying down to make the purchase, and will be driving the car back home. Does the California title need to be transferred at a California DMV? or can I transfer the title when I get home to Canada?

some notes: shipping the car through an insured carrier is not an option since it would cost way more than any potential tax savings. One person at the board of equalization told me it's ok to drive it out, but the legal documents seem to imply otherwise. I've spoken to individuals who did the title transfer once they got the car home and therefore didn't pay any CA sales tax, but that was several years ago, so I don't know if that's still a viable option.

If anybody has some firm knowledge or recent experience in this area I would really appreciate it.

Answer 1

When buying a vehicle in CA from a private party, sales tax is due when the vehicle is registered.

Yes, you can buy the car and drive it up to Canada without paying the sales tax. Be sure to have your documents and bill of sale in case there is a problem at the border. Be sure that the tags are current.

Answer 2

Americas money hungry, I wouldn't doubt you would have to pay taxes