Selling a car privately in Louisiana
Louisiana is a notary state twice over: the title must be assigned to the buyer before a notary, and the sale itself is documented with a notarized bill of sale (act of sale) showing the actual price and a full vehicle description. Louisiana's network of public tag agents and OMV offices includes many notary-equipped locations, so plan the handoff around one.
After the sale, file the free Notice of Vehicle Transfer through the OMV's online service; it flags your record immediately with the sale, even though legal transfer waits for the buyer's title application. Louisiana plates belong to the seller; remove yours and return or transfer them through OMV. The buyer pays state and local sales tax when they title.
The checklist
- 1
Assign the title before a notary (Louisiana)
The Louisiana title must be signed over to the buyer in front of a notary. Many OMV offices and public tag agents have one on site.
- 2
Execute a notarized bill of sale
Louisiana expects a notarized act of sale with the actual price and full vehicle description; it is the buyer's tax document and your dated record.
- 3
File the Notice of Vehicle Transfer online
The free OMV filing flags your record immediately with the disposition of the vehicle.
- 4
Remove your license plates
Louisiana plates belong to the seller. Take them off and return or transfer them through OMV.
- 5
Verify your title status
Locate the physical title and confirm it is in your name with no undisclosed liens. If the title is lost, request a duplicate before listing.
- 6
Complete a bill of sale
Recommended for every private sale even where not required. Record buyer/seller names, VIN, price, date, and an as-is acknowledgement. Both parties keep a copy.
- 7
Complete the odometer disclosure
Federal rules require odometer disclosure for most vehicles under 20 model years old. Usually done on the title itself; some states use a separate form.
- 8
File a release of liability / notice of sale
If your state offers it, file promptly after the sale so you are not liable for tickets or incidents after the buyer drives away.
- 9
Handle plates per your state's rules
In most states the seller removes the plates; in some, plates stay with the vehicle. Confirm your state's rule before handing over the keys.
- 10
Pay off any lien before or at transfer
If a lien remains, coordinate payoff with the lender so the buyer can receive a clear title. Do not sign over a title with an unreleased lien.
- 11
Confirm payment before signing the title
Verify cash, or use a cashier's check verified with the issuing bank, or complete the transfer inside the buyer's bank. Never release the signed title before funds are confirmed.
- 12
Keep copies of everything
Photograph or copy the signed title (both sides), bill of sale, odometer disclosure, and the buyer's ID if they consent.
- 13
Check official state instructions
Requirements change. Confirm the current process on your state DMV / motor vehicle agency website before the sale.
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Start your free beta packetLouisiana private sale FAQ
Does a Louisiana car title need to be notarized?
Yes. The seller's assignment to the purchaser must be executed before a notary, and Louisiana also expects a notarized bill of sale showing the actual price. Sign nothing until the notary is watching.
What is Louisiana's Notice of Vehicle Transfer?
A free online OMV filing that immediately flags your record with the sale, protecting you while the buyer completes their title work. It does not replace the buyer's title application.
Do I keep my plates when I sell a car in Louisiana?
Yes. Louisiana plates stay with the seller. Remove them and transfer them to another vehicle or return them to OMV.
What does the buyer pay in a Louisiana private sale?
State and local sales tax on the price shown in the notarized act of sale, plus title and registration fees, when they apply for title. Penalties accrue if they wait too long, so encourage prompt filing.
Selling a special situation?
Other states
Bold states have a state-specific guide; others use the general checklist.
Last reviewed Jul 13, 2026. This is a general checklist, not legal advice. Confirm current requirements with your state DMV or tax office.