Forms You Need for Louisiana Vehicle Sales

Selling or purchasing a vehicle in Louisiana requires a series of official documents to ensure the transaction is legal, properly recorded, and compliant with state law. Whether you’re transferring ownership between private parties or finalizing a dealership sale, the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) mandates specific paperwork at each step.

Required Documents for Selling a Vehicle

When selling a vehicle in Louisiana, the following documents are typically required:

• Vehicle Title: The seller must sign the title over to the buyer. All liens must be cleared, or a lien release must be attached.
• Bill of Sale: While not always mandatory, a bill of sale is strongly recommended and often required for certain title transactions. It should include vehicle details (VIN, make, model, year), sale price, and buyer/seller information.
• Odometer Disclosure Statement: Required for vehicles under 10 years old. This can be written on the title or provided as a separate form.
• Notice of Vehicle Transfer (Form DPSMV 1697): This optional form is strongly advised for sellers. Submitting it to the OMV notifies the state that the vehicle is no longer in your possession.

For more information on transferring titles, refer to Transferring a Vehicle Title in Louisiana.

Required Forms for Buyers

Buyers must gather the following documentation to complete vehicle registration:

• Signed Vehicle Title: Must include seller’s and buyer’s signatures, date of sale, and odometer reading.
• Vehicle Application Form (DPSMV 1799): Needed for registration and titling.
• Proof of Insurance: Louisiana requires all vehicles to be insured before registration.
• Proof of Residency and Identification: Typically a Louisiana driver’s license and utility bill or lease agreement.
• Bill of Sale: Especially important if the sale price is lower than average market value or if a tax exemption applies.

Buyers registering a vehicle for the first time can review Registering a New Vehicle in Louisiana.

Notarization and Title Requirements

Louisiana law mandates that the vehicle title be notarized during a private sale. This notarization confirms the legitimacy of the signatures on the document and protects both parties legally. If the seller or buyer cannot appear together before a notary, they may each sign separately in the presence of their own notary.

Also, note that some titles may have designated spaces for odometer readings and purchase price. Incomplete or incorrect titles may require an Application for Duplicate Title.

Forms for Out-of-State Buyers or Sellers

If the vehicle is being sold to someone out of state, buyers should consult the registration rules in their home state. Louisiana sellers, however, still need to submit a Notice of Transfer and keep records of the sale. Those relocating to Louisiana with a vehicle should check Out‑of‑State Vehicle Registration in Louisiana.

Fee and Tax Considerations

Vehicle sales are subject to a 4-9% sales tax based on the sale price and local jurisdiction. Additional fees may include title, registration, and handling charges. See Louisiana DMV Fee Breakdown for exact figures.

Final Steps After Sale

After all documentation is completed:

• The buyer must visit an OMV office or an authorized Public Tag Agent (PTA) within 40 days to complete the title and registration process.
• Sellers are advised to remove their license plate and submit the Notice of Transfer promptly.
• Both parties should retain copies of all forms for personal records.

You can locate your nearest OMV office using Finding DMV Locations Across Louisiana.