British Columbia vehicle owners
What's your car worth, and what will it cost you in tax?
Plain-English answers on BC used-car tax, ICBC total-loss disputes, FIN-320 appraisals, and imports, plus free calculators. Built as an independent BC information resource while licensing is completed.
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The questions BC vehicle owners actually ask.
Tax How much tax you pay on a used car in BC
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ICBC Dispute a low ICBC total-loss offer
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Tax FIN-320: the BC motor vehicle appraisal form
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Imports Out-of-province & imported vehicles
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Collector Classic & collector car appraisals
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Cost What a car appraisal costs in BC
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When you need an appraisal
Some BC vehicle situations call for a documented valuation. These guides explain how the process works, what forms are involved, and what to verify before hiring a qualified appraiser.
Quick answers
How is tax calculated on a used car in BC?
For a private sale, PST is charged on the greater of your purchase price or the vehicle's Canadian Black Book average wholesale value — 12% under $125,000, 15% to $149,999.99, and 20% above. Our used-car tax guide explains it in full.
When do I need a vehicle appraisal in BC?
Most often when you paid below book value, received a gift or transfer, brought a vehicle in from out of province, or want to dispute an ICBC total-loss offer. A FIN-320 appraisal documents the real value.
Can an appraisal lower my tax?
If your vehicle is genuinely worth less than the book value BC would use, a FIN-320 appraisal lets PST be charged on the appraised amount instead.
Are you affiliated with ICBC?
No. Car Appraisal BC is an independent information resource and future appraisal service. We are not affiliated with ICBC, the Government of BC, any dealer, or any insurer.