Title transfer
How to transfer a car title in Louisiana
Here’s exactly what to bring: Title transfer
Check off each item as you gather it. You can check in any time, even before you’ve gathered everything.
General guidance to help you avoid a second trip, not legal advice. Requirements can vary by situation, and we confirm the specifics for your case in office.
How it works
You just bought a car from a private seller. Now the title needs to move into your name, and the plates and registration have to follow. You would rather not make two trips to sort it out.
Here is how a title transfer actually works, and exactly what to bring so we can finish it at the counter.
The seller signs the title over to you
On the back of the title there is an assignment section. The seller fills in your name as the buyer, the sale price, the date, and the odometer reading, and signs it. That signature is what legally hands the vehicle to you.
Put the sale in writing
A bill of sale records the price, the date, and both parties in one place. It backs up the numbers on the title and protects both of you. If you do not have one, we can write it up and notarize it while you are here.
Bring proof you can register it
Louisiana wants to see your photo ID and proof of Louisiana insurance in your name before the vehicle goes back on the road under your name.
We process the transfer and handle the plates
We prepare the title application, submit it, and take care of the registration and tag, so you leave with everything moving in the right direction.
Common questions
Do I need the seller to come with me?
No. As long as the seller has properly signed the title over to you and you have a bill of sale, you can complete the transfer without them. The seller's signature on the title is what matters, not their presence.
What if the seller lost the title?
The seller has to replace it before they can sign it over, because you cannot transfer a title that does not exist. They can request a duplicate from the OMV, and we can help them with that. Once they have the replacement, they sign it over to you and you are back on track.
Do I still need a bill of sale if the price is on the title?
It is still worth having. A bill of sale spells out the price, date, and both parties in one document and protects everyone if a question comes up later. We can notarize one for you on the spot.
How long do I have to transfer the title after buying?
Louisiana expects you to transfer it soon after the sale, and waiting can add penalties, so it is best not to sit on it. Bring your paperwork in and we will handle it right away. If you are worried about timing, call us and we will tell you where you stand.
Is an odometer reading required?
For most vehicles under 20 years old, yes. The reading is recorded at the time of sale. We will make sure it is captured correctly.
Curious what this costs? Add up 88 Title’s service fees. The $23 public tag fee is always shown as its own line.