IPVA 2026: Tax for the Same Car Can Be 3 Times Higher Depending on the State of Registration—See Prices From Cheapest to Most Expensive
- Why Does IPVA Vary So Much Across States?
- Amazonas Now Has the Cheapest IPVA in Brazil
- Paraná and Santa Catarina: Close Seconds for Low Rates
- The Heavy Hitters: States With the Highest IPVA
- Full State-by-State IPVA Ranking for 2026
- Is It Worth Registering Your Car in a Different State?
- How IPVA Rates Have Changed Over Time
- What This Means for Car Buyers in 2026
- FAQs About IPVA 2026
In 2026, Brazilian vehicle owners will face a stark disparity in IPVA (Motor Vehicle Property Tax) rates across states. While some regions impose nearly symbolic fees, others continue to burden drivers with some of the highest tax rates in the country. The difference is so drastic that the same car could cost thousands more in taxes depending on where it’s registered. This contrast has already led many drivers to reconsider where they’ll register their vehicles this year.
Why Does IPVA Vary So Much Across States?
The IPVA is a state tax, meaning each Brazilian state sets its own rates and rules. This leads to wild fluctuations—what’s a minor fee in one state can be a financial headache in another. For example, a popular car valued at R$73,000 could cost as little as R$1,095 in Amazonas but soar to R$2,920 in São Paulo. That’s a difference of R$1,825 for the exact same vehicle!
Amazonas Now Has the Cheapest IPVA in Brazil
Amazonas recently slashed its IPVA rates, making it the most affordable state for car owners in 2026. Popular cars and motorcycles now face a 1.5% rate, while trucks and heavy vehicles pay just 1%. For that R$73,000 car, that means only R$1,095 in taxes. The state government boasts that this MOVE benefits over 420,000 vehicles, with some even seeing their taxes drop to zero.
Paraná and Santa Catarina: Close Seconds for Low Rates
Trailing just behind Amazonas, Paraná and Santa Catarina remain top choices for cost-conscious drivers. Paraná, long known for its low taxation, maintains a 1.9% rate on vehicle value. Meanwhile, Santa Catarina, Espírito Santo, and Acre charge a competitive 2% for passenger cars. That R$73,000 car? It’s R$1,387 in Paraná and R$1,460 in Santa Catarina—still a far cry from the pricier states.
The Heavy Hitters: States With the Highest IPVA
On the flip side, Brazil’s most populous states—São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Minas Gerais—impose a flat 4% rate on passenger vehicles. That means our R$73,000 example car costs a whopping R$2,920 in these regions. Drivers here pay nearly triple what Amazonas residents do for the same vehicle. Ouch.
Full State-by-State IPVA Ranking for 2026
Here’s how all Brazilian states stack up, ordered from lowest to highest IPVA rates for passenger cars:
| State | Rate | Tax on R$73k Car |
|---|---|---|
| Amazonas | 1.5% | R$1,095 |
| Paraná | 1.9% | R$1,387 |
| Espírito Santo/Santa Catarina/Acre | 2% | R$1,460 |
| Tocantins | 2% | R$1,460 |
| Pernambuco | ~2.4% | ~R$1,752 |
| Paraíba/Pará/Bahia | 2.5% | R$1,825 |
| Sergipe/Piauí | 2.5-3% | R$1,825-2,190 |
| Roraima/Rondônia/Rio Grande do Sul/Rio Grande do Norte/Mato Grosso do Sul/Amapá | 3% | R$2,190 |
| Distrito Federal | 3.5% | R$2,555 |
| Goiás | Up to 3.75% | Up to R$2,738 |
| São Paulo/Rio de Janeiro/Minas Gerais | 4% | R$2,920 |
Is It Worth Registering Your Car in a Different State?
While the tax savings are tempting, there are catches. You’ll need an address in the state, and some states require local residency for registration. There’s also the hassle of transferring plates if you move. For fleet owners or those with multiple properties, though, the math might just work out.
How IPVA Rates Have Changed Over Time
Amazonas’ rate cut continues a trend of states competing to attract vehicle registrations. Paraná held the low-rate crown for years until Amazonas undercut them this year. Meanwhile, high-population states have kept rates steady, relying on their large driver bases.
What This Means for Car Buyers in 2026
If you’re car shopping, factor IPVA into your total cost of ownership. A R$73,000 car in Amazonas costs R$1,095 yearly to tax, while in São Paulo it’s R$2,920—that’s R$1,825 more per year, or R$9,125 over five years. For luxury vehicles, the difference becomes even more staggering.
FAQs About IPVA 2026
Which Brazilian state has the lowest IPVA in 2026?
Amazonas now offers the lowest IPVA rates at 1.5% for popular cars and motorcycles, making it the most affordable state for vehicle taxes.
How much more expensive is IPVA in São Paulo compared to Amazonas?
For a R$73,000 car, São Paulo’s 4% rate means paying R$2,920 versus Amazonas’ R$1,095—a difference of R$1,825 per year.
Can I register my car in a different state to pay less IPVA?
Technically yes, but you’ll need a valid address in that state, and some states require proof of residency. The paperwork and potential legal issues may outweigh the savings for most individuals.
Have IPVA rates changed significantly for 2026?
Amazonas made the biggest change, reducing rates to become the new lowest-tax state. Most other states maintained similar rates to previous years.
Do electric vehicles get IPVA discounts?
Some states offer partial or full IPVA exemptions for electric vehicles, but policies vary. Check your local regulations for specifics.
