COVID-19 Effects on Registration Services
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, state DMVs nationwide have closed driver licensing offices, extended license and registration expiration dates, and/or limited the transactions they are processing. If possible, residents should use the OMV’s online services to complete any relevant transactions. Follow the OMV’s most recent updates for the latest information.
SUMMARY: How to Register Your Vehicle in Louisiana
To legally operate your vehicle in Louisiana, you must register it with the Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) either in person or by mail. You will need to provide various documents, including proof of ownership and proof of car insurance. Registration fees and taxes vary based on your vehicle and which parish you live in. New Louisiana residents should be prepared to supply out-of-state title and registration.
Keep reading for complete details about registering a car in Louisiana.
New to Louisiana?
When you move to Louisiana, you must register your out-of-state motor vehicle with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) within 30 days.
NOTE: Use tax is required for all registered vehicles, but you may be able to receive a credit if you already paid sales tax in your previous state. Contact your nearest LA OMV office for more information.
Your vehicle will also need to pass an inspection. Safety inspections are required in all of Louisiana. Some parishes also require emissions inspections.
BEFORE you register your vehicle, make sure you’ve purchased Louisiana car insurance.
To register your vehicle, you’ll need:
- The Vehicle Application (Form DPSMV 1799).
- Your driver’s license (or a copy for mailed applications).
- The current title and registration.
- Proof of car insurance.
- Proof of sales tax payment IF you paid tax in another state and will be claiming credit for it.
- Payment for fees and taxes.
- By mail: Check or money order.
- In person: Credit or debit card, money order, e-check, or cash.
You can submit your registration documents:
Read below to learn how to register a vehicle if you are already a Louisiana resident.
Register Your Vehicle in LA
Make sure you have an active car insurance policy when registering your vehicle.
Compare rates and buy your policy online: Visit the Insurance Center >>
When you buy a vehicle, you must register it with the Louisiana OMV within 40 days of the purchase date.
You can register your vehicle:
NOTE: Registration requirements are slightly different for new and used vehicles.
To register your vehicle, you’ll need:
- A completed Vehicle Application (Form DPSMV 1799).
- Your driver’s license or current photo identification.
- Proof of car insurance UNLESS you bought your vehicle at a dealership.
- Proof of purchase, such as:
- Ownership documents:
- An odometer disclosure statement for vehicles under 10 years old.
- This can be included on the title or in a separate statement.
- A loan document IF you financed the vehicle. You can submit:
- A UCC-1 Financing Statement.
- A security agreement.
OR
- A chattel mortgage.
- Applicable fees and taxes, payable by:
- Cash, E-check, money order,
