Every vehicle on Louisiana roads must be titled, registered, insured and inspected. The deadlines are short, and not having proof of insurance when you're stopped can cost you your license plate on the spot.
Know the rule
Apply for title, registration and plates at any Motor Vehicle Office or a licensed Public Tag Agent; Public Tag Agents charge additional fees.
Handbook p. 142 ↗Know the rule
When you buy a new vehicle from a Louisiana dealer, the dealer usually collects taxes and fees, submits the paperwork, and issues a 60-day temporary cardboard plate that must be clearly visible on the rear.
Handbook p. 142 ↗Time to apply for a title in your name after buying a used vehicle
Handbook p. 142 ↗To title a used vehicle, bring:
- The previous owner's title, assigned to you and notarized
- A notarized bill of sale (not needed if the title has a place for the selling price)
- A declaration of liability insurance
- Sales tax, title and license transfer fees
- A federal odometer statement if the vehicle is less than 10 years old
- A mortgage document, if applicable
Know the rule
If the title shows a lien, make sure an authorized agent of the lien holder has released it.
Handbook p. 142 ↗Know the rule
Keep your registration certificate in the vehicle at all times and show it when law enforcement asks.
Handbook p. 142 ↗Know the rule
New residents must transfer title and registration for vehicles they bring. Fees are based on current book value, with credit for taxes paid to states that give Louisiana similar credit. Louisiana state tax is 4%.
Handbook p. 143 ↗Time to correct the address on your registration after a move (no charge)
Handbook p. 143 ↗Know the rule
Proof of insurance must be in the vehicle whenever it's operational and shown whenever an officer asks.
Handbook p. 143 ↗Know the rule
If you can't show proof of insurance when stopped, your plate is seized and the vehicle may be impounded. You have three calendar days (not counting weekends and legal holidays) to show proof at a Motor Vehicle office, or the plate is destroyed and you must re-register.
Handbook p. 143 ↗Know the rule
Giving false insurance information can get your registration suspended, plus court fines and jail. If you stop driving a vehicle, surrender its plate to OMV before canceling the insurance.
Handbook p. 143 ↗Know the rule
Plates expire on the last day of the month shown on your registration. You may renew in person 60 days before; renewal notices are only a courtesy, and keeping current is your responsibility.
Handbook p. 143 ↗Know the rule
Every automobile, truck, trailer, boat trailer and motorcycle must have a current inspection sticker from a station displaying an orange 'Louisiana Motor Vehicle Inspection Station' sign. New Orleans, Kenner and Westwego run their own programs.
Handbook p. 144 ↗Plate and title fees
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Auto plate (2-year) | 1% of original price; $10/yr if value is $10,000 or less |
| Pickup 6,000 lbs or less (4-year plate) | $10 per year |
| Title | $18.50, plus $8.00 handling on most transactions |
Put it into practice
You buy a used car from a neighbor on Saturday. You have 5 days to apply for the title in your name. Bring the notarized title, a notarized bill of sale if the title has no price line, your insurance declaration and the fees.