The short answer
Wisconsin exempts a motor vehicle sold to a nonresident from Wisconsin sales tax if the only use in Wisconsin is removing it from the state (Wis. Admin. Code Tax 11.83(4)). Per the Wisconsin DOR, the dealer documents this with an exemption certificate (Form S-211) or section E of Form e-MV11. The exemption does not apply if you'll use the vehicle in Wisconsin first, for example at a vacation home.
Your home state's tax and registration rules then apply. The Minnesota Department of Revenue says Minnesota motor vehicle sales tax may be paid to the dealer or to the motor vehicle registration office when you register. Ask us early how we can handle your state's paperwork, and confirm with your state's motor vehicle agency.
The Wisconsin rule, in the DOR's words
Wisconsin DOR Publication 202 (section F): sales of motor vehicles to persons who are not residents of Wisconsin, "if use in Wisconsin is limited to removing the motor vehicle … from Wisconsin, are exempt from Wisconsin sales or use tax. If the vehicle is to be used in Wisconsin (e.g., at a vacation home), prior to removal from Wisconsin, the exemption does not apply." It adds that if the exemption does not apply, "a credit may be allowed in the state of residence for the Wisconsin sales or use tax paid," and that the customer should contact the resident state.
The same publication notes the exemption covers motor vehicles and truck bodies, not boats, snowmobiles, ATVs/UTVs, trailers or a separately sold slide-in camper.
What to ask before you drive
Out-of-state buyer checklist
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What this page doesn't cover
This is a summary of public guidance, not tax or legal advice. Rules for trailers, campers, recreational vehicles, business purchases and leases differ; ask us and your home state's agency. Wisconsin residents: see the Wisconsin buyer's guide.
Drive times from Minnesota
| From | Miles | Minutes |
|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis, MN | 92 | 122 |
| St. Paul, MN | 89 | 118 |
| Stillwater, MN | 68 | 95 |
| Hudson, WI | 69 | 101 |
| Duluth, MN | 109 | 136 |
Who to talk to
Questions
Do I pay Wisconsin sales tax if I live in Minnesota?
Per Wisconsin law and DOR guidance, a vehicle sold to a nonresident is exempt from Wisconsin sales tax if its only use in Wisconsin is being removed from the state. You'll then deal with Minnesota's motor vehicle sales tax when you register; Minnesota's DOR says it may be paid to the dealer or the registration office.
What if I keep the vehicle at my Wisconsin cabin first?
Then the Wisconsin exemption does not apply, per DOR Publication 202. A credit may be allowed in your home state; contact your state.
Does the exemption cover a trailer or camper?
Not trailers or a separately sold slide-in camper, per DOR Publication 202. Ask us about your situation.
Next steps at Swant Graber
Swant Graber Motors (Chevrolet, Ram, Dodge): 1690 E Division Ave, Barron, WI 54812, 715-537-5657. Swant Graber Ford: 1697 E Division Ave, 715-537-9500. Search new or used inventory, or see shop near you for model-by-model answers.
