Expect about $1,050 to $1,100 per year to register a 2020 Porsche 911 valued at $117,000 in California. California does not charge vehicle property tax. The biggest cost is the Vehicle License Fee at 0.65% of the car’s current value, about $761 at this valuation. Your total falls each year as the car’s value declines.
Fee breakdown
| Fee | Typical amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle License Fee (VLF) | About $761 | 0.65% of current market value |
| Registration fee | About $62 | Standard statewide fee |
| California Highway Patrol fee | $28 | Funds CHP programs |
| Transportation Improvement Fee | $175 | Applies to vehicles valued at $60,000 or more |
| Smog abatement fee | $25 | Applies during the 8-year smog exemption window |
| County and district fees | $7 to $50 | Varies by county and local programs |
| Reflectorized plate fee | $1 | Annual plate fee |
| Zero-emission road fee | $0 | Gas vehicles do not pay this fee |
Estimated total: $761 VLF plus about $291 to $341 in fixed and local fees equals roughly $1,050 to $1,100. Exact amounts vary by county and any optional plates or add-ons.
How costs change over time
Because VLF follows market value, your annual total goes down as the 911 depreciates. If value drops to $95,000, the VLF becomes about $618. With the same fixed fees, your renewal would fall to roughly $910 to $960. Expect the steepest drop in the first few years, then a slower decline.
Starting in 2026, online DMV renewals processed through authorized partners add a $2 electronic transaction fee.
Practical tips
- Use the California DMV fee calculator for an exact quote based on your VIN, zip code, and renewal date.
- Renew on time. Late fees add up fast and can exceed $100 depending on how late you pay.
- Track your car’s value. Lower value means a lower VLF, so plan for smaller renewals each year.
- Update your address after a move. County and district fees change with your location.
- Skip vanity or specialty plates if you want the lowest renewal cost.
- After the 8-year exemption ends, plan for a biennial smog test. The test fee is separate from DMV fees.
Sidekick tracks your 911’s value and projects your next DMV bill so you can budget with confidence.