
If your latest car tax bill in Virginia feels higher than expected, you’re not imagining it. Across the state, many drivers are seeing increases tied to new 2026 appraisal methods and shifting tax rules.
Virginia already has one of the highest vehicle property tax burdens in the country. In fact, recent reports rank the state among the highest nationwide for vehicle property taxes, far exceeding many others. That means even small changes in valuation or relief can have a noticeable impact. Here is a look at five reasons why car taxes in Virginia are rising.