How to Sign Your Title in Louisiana

Transferring ownership of a vehicle in Louisiana requires careful attention to detail. Incorrectly completing the title can lead to delays, legal issues, or even void the transfer. This guide provides a step-by-step process to help you sign your Louisiana car title correctly, guaranteeing a smooth and hassle-free transaction.

Before You Begin

  • Read the Title Carefully: Familiarize yourself with the layout and instructions on your Louisiana title.
  • Use Proper Ink: Use black or blue ink to fill out the title. Avoid using pencils or colorful inks.
  • Avoid Errors: Mistakes can void the title. Do not use white-out, scratch-outs, or make erasures.
  • Notarization Requirement: Louisiana requires the seller's signature on the title to be notarized.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Locate the Title Assignment Section

  • Back of the Title: Turn your Louisiana title over to the back side.
  • "Assignment of Title" Section: This is where you will transfer ownership.

2. Enter the Odometer Reading

  • Odometer Disclosure Statement: Federal and state law require that you disclose the current mileage.
  • Exact Mileage: Enter the current odometer reading (no tenths) as of the date of sale.

3. Fill in Buyer Information

  • Buyer's Printed Name(s): Clearly print the full legal name(s) of the buyer(s) as it appears on their ID.
  • Buyer's Address: Include the complete physical address of the buyer(s).

4. Fill in Selling Price and Date

  • Selling Price: Write the exact amount for which the vehicle is being sold.
  • Date of Sale: Enter the date when the sale is taking place.

5. Seller's Signature and Notarization

For the Seller(s):

  • Signature Line: Sign on the line labeled "Signature(s) of Seller(s)".
    • Multiple Sellers: If there are multiple sellers listed with "AND" between names, all must sign. If "OR" is listed, only one seller's signature is required.
  • Printed Name: Print your name(s) exactly as it appears on the front of the title next to your signature.
  • Notarization:
    • Do Not Sign Until in Presence of Notary: Wait to sign until you are with a licensed notary public.
    • Provide Valid ID: The notary will require a valid government-issued ID.
    • Notary Completes Section: The notary will fill out their portion, including their signature and seal.

6. Buyer's Signature

For the Buyer(s):

  • Signature Line: Sign on the line labeled "Signature(s) of Buyer(s)".
    • Multiple Buyers: If there are multiple buyers, each should sign if space allows.
  • Printed Name: Print your name(s) next to your signature.

7. Lienholder Information (If Applicable)

  • Lien Release: If a lien is listed on the title, you must obtain a lien release from the lienholder.
    • Lien Release Document: Obtain a notarized lien release from the lienholder.
  • Attach Lien Release: Provide the lien release to the buyer to submit during registration.

Additional Tips

  • Match Names Exactly: Ensure all signatures and printed names match those on the front of the title.
  • No Blank Fields: Do not leave any required fields blank. Incomplete titles can be rejected.
  • Bill of Sale: Louisiana requires a bill of sale for vehicle transactions. Include:
    • Vehicle information (make, model, year, VIN)
    • Sale price
    • Date of sale
    • Names and signatures of buyer and seller
    • Notarization: The bill of sale must be notarized.
  • Keep Copies: Make photocopies of the signed title and bill of sale for your records.
  • License Plates: In Louisiana, license plates stay with the seller. The buyer must obtain new plates.
  • Sales Tax: Be aware that Louisiana charges sales tax on private vehicle sales, which the buyer will need to pay upon registration.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not Notarizing the Seller's Signature: Louisiana requires the seller's signature to be notarized.
  • Incorrect Signatures: Signing in the wrong place or not as the name appears on the title.
  • Alterations: Using white-out, crossing out, or erasing information.
  • Missing Signatures: Forgetting to have all required parties sign.
  • Incorrect Odometer Reading: Providing an inaccurate mileage can lead to legal issues.
  • Not Providing Lien Release: Failing to provide a lien release if there is a lien on the title.

What If You Don't Have the Title?

Lost or Misplaced Title

  • Apply for a Duplicate Title: You can request a duplicate from the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV).
  • How to Apply:
    • In Person: Visit your local OMV office.
    • By Mail: Send the required forms and payment to the OMV.
  • Required Documents:
    • Completed Vehicle Application (Form DPSMV 1799).
    • Proof of ownership (if applicable).
    • Valid photo ID.
    • Applicable fee (usually around $68.50; fees may vary).
  • Processing Time:
    • In Person: Immediate processing in some cases.
    • By Mail: Allow 7-10 business days for processing.

Finalizing the Transfer

For the Seller

  • Remove License Plates: In Louisiana, license plates stay with the seller. You can transfer them to another vehicle or surrender them to the OMV.
  • Notice of Transfer: It's recommended to notify the OMV of the sale to release liability.
    • Notice of Vehicle Transfer (Form DPSMV 1697): Complete and submit this form to the OMV.
    • Online Submission: You can submit the notice online through the OMV website.

For the Buyer

  • Register the Vehicle: The buyer must register the vehicle with the OMV within 40 days of the purchase date.
  • Submit Required Documents:
    • Signed and notarized title.
    • Notarized bill of sale.
    • Proof of insurance.
    • Lien release (if applicable).
  • Pay Applicable Fees:
    • Title transfer fee.
    • Registration fee.
    • Sales tax (based on the purchase price).
  • Vehicle Inspection: Obtain a safety inspection sticker from an authorized inspection station.
  • Provide Proof of Insurance: Louisiana requires proof of liability insurance at the time of registration.

Contact Information

  • Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles
    • Website: Louisiana OMV Website
    • Phone: (225) 925-6146
    • Mailing Address:
      • Office of Motor Vehicles
      • P.O. Box 64886
      • Baton Rouge, LA 70896
  • Find a Local OMV Office:
    • Visit the OMV website to locate a nearby office.

By following these steps, the transfer of vehicle ownership in Louisiana will be legal and efficient. Always consult the Louisiana Department of Motor Vehicles or legal counsel if you have specific questions or unique circumstances.

We'll Buy Any Vehicle in Louisiana

Get an instant offer to sell your car for cash now!

Instant Online Offer
1-855-437-9728

Start typing and press enter to search