As of January 13, 2026, Pennsylvania vehicle dealers can now charge higher documentary fees following the annual adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

New Documentary Fee Limits

Effective immediately, the maximum documentary fee has increased to:

• $490 for dealers who process registrations online through providers like VITU
• $409 for dealers who process titlework manually

These amounts represent increases from the previous limits of $477 and $398, respectively.

Annual Adjustments

Pennsylvania's documentary fee will continue to be adjusted each year in accordance with changes to the Consumer Price Index, ensuring the fee keeps pace with inflation and administrative costs.

Important Reminders for Dealers

When charging documentary fees, dealers should keep these key points in mind:

Tax and Advertising

• The documentary fee is non-taxable
• It may be excluded from advertised vehicle prices

Disclosure Requirements

• The fee is a dealer-imposed charge, not a state-mandated fee
• It must be disclosed on signage within the dealership
• The actual dollar amount cannot be pre-printed on the buyer's order, as it remains negotiable

Negotiability

The documentary fee is not mandatory and continues to be a negotiable item between the dealer and customer. Dealers should be prepared to discuss this fee with buyers during the sales process.

Compliance Warning

Dealers should ensure their documentary fees do not exceed the permissible maximum amounts. The Attorney General's Office may take enforcement action against dealerships that charge excessive fees, viewing them as deceptive practices regarding the services being performed.