Vehicle Registration and Inspection in Louisiana

1. What is the process for registering a vehicle in Louisiana?

The process for registering a vehicle in Louisiana involves the following steps:

1. Obtain a Vehicle Title: If you are purchasing a new or used vehicle, you will need to obtain a vehicle title from the seller. If you already have a title, you can use that one.

2. Louisiana State Inspection: All vehicles must pass a Louisiana State Inspection before they can be registered. Make sure your vehicle meets the state’s safety and emission standards.

3. Obtain Insurance: All vehicles registered in Louisiana must have liability insurance coverage of at least $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.

4. Gather Required Documents: You will need to provide the following documents when registering your vehicle:

– Completed Vehicle Application (Form DPSMV 1799)
– Vehicle Title or Bill of Sale
– Proof of Louisiana Insurance
– Original Inspection Certificate (Form DPSMV 6232)
– Payment for registration fees and taxes

5. Visit Your Local OMV Office: Bring all required documents and forms to your local Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) office. You may also make an appointment online to save time.

6. Pay Fees: The fees for registering a new or used vehicle in Louisiana include:

– Registration Fee: Varies based on vehicle type and weight.
– License Plate Fee: Varies based on type and design of license plate.
– Tax: 4% state sales tax on the purchase price or value of the vehicle.

Note: Additional fees may apply if registering a commercial or oversized vehicle, trailer, or motorcycle.

7. Receive Registration Documents: Once all documents are submitted and fees are paid, you will receive your license plate(s) and registration sticker(s). These must be displayed on your vehicle at all times while driving in Louisiana.

8. Enjoy Your Newly Registered Vehicle! Your vehicle is now registered with the state of Louisiana and you are legally able to drive it on the roads. Keep your registration documents in a safe place, as they may be needed for future transactions or renewals.

2. How often do I need to renew my vehicle registration in Louisiana?


Vehicle registration in Louisiana must be renewed every two years.

3. Are emissions inspections required for vehicles in Louisiana?


Yes, emissions inspections are required for vehicles in Louisiana.

4. How do I obtain a temporary registration permit in Louisiana?

To obtain a temporary registration permit in Louisiana, follow these steps:

1. Contact your local Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) office and ask if they offer temporary permits. Not all offices may offer this service.

2. If temporary permits are available, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. Temporary permits are typically only available for individuals who have recently purchased or acquired a vehicle but have not yet registered it in their name.

3. Gather the necessary documents to support your temporary permit application, which may include:

– A completed and signed application for a temporary registration permit
– Proof of ownership of the vehicle (such as a bill of sale)
– Valid identification (driver’s license, ID card, etc.)
– Proof of insurance for the vehicle
– Payment for any applicable fees

4. Bring all necessary documents and payment to your local OMV office. The fees for a temporary permit vary depending on the type of vehicle and its weight.

5. Once your application is approved, you will receive a temporary registration sticker and paper permit to display on your vehicle until you can register it permanently.

Note: Temporary permits are usually valid for 30 days but may vary depending on the circumstances of your situation. Be sure to confirm the expiration date with your local OMV office when obtaining the permit.

6. Within the validity period of your temporary permit, make sure to complete all necessary steps to register your vehicle permanently in Louisiana (such as obtaining a safety inspection and paying required taxes and fees).

7. Once your vehicle is properly registered, remove the temporary permit from your windshield and replace it with permanent registration stickers before driving on public roads.

For more information about obtaining a temporary registration permit in Louisiana, visit your local OMV office or go to their website at https://www.expresslane.org/.

5. Is there a grace period for expired vehicle registrations in Louisiana?


Yes, there is a grace period of 10 days for expired vehicle registrations in Louisiana. This means that if your registration expires on February 1st, you have until February 10th to renew it without facing any late fees or penalties. However, it is important to note that driving with an expired registration during the grace period may still result in a ticket from law enforcement. It is best to renew your registration before it expires to avoid any potential issues.

6. Do out-of-state vehicles need to be registered in Louisiana if staying temporarily?


Yes, all vehicles driven on public roadways in Louisiana must be registered with the state. Even if the vehicle is only staying temporarily, it must still be registered with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles and display a valid license plate. Temporary registration options may be available for out-of-state vehicles, such as temporary operating permits or temporary license plates, but they must still be obtained through the Office of Motor Vehicles.

7. Are there any exemptions from vehicle registration fees in Louisiana?

Yes, there are several exemptions from vehicle registration fees in Louisiana:

1. Vehicles registered and operated by the federal government.
2. Vehicles owned by a political subdivision of the state, such as a city or parish.
3. Vehicles owned by a nonprofit educational, religious, or charitable organization.
4. Disabled veteran vehicles with special license plates issued by the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs.
5. Antique vehicles registered with classic car license plates.
6. Farm trucks and trailers used exclusively for agricultural purposes.
7. Military personnel stationed outside of Louisiana who maintain their home state registration and insurance on their vehicle.

For a complete list of exemptions and their requirements, please refer to the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles website.

8. Can I transfer my vehicle registration from one county to another within Louisiana?


Yes, you can transfer your vehicle registration from one county to another within Louisiana. You will need to visit your local Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) office and provide proof of your new address and pay any required fees. Depending on the county, there may also be additional documentation or requirements needed for the transfer. It is best to contact your local OMV office for specific instructions on how to transfer your vehicle registration.

9. Do electric or hybrid vehicles have different registration requirements in Louisiana?

Yes, electric and hybrid vehicles have different registration requirements in Louisiana compared to traditional gasoline or diesel vehicles. In addition to the standard registration fees and documents required for all vehicles, electric and hybrid vehicles are also subject to an annual Alternative Fuel Fee, which ranges from $20 to $86 depending on the vehicle’s weight. This fee is used to fund alternative fuel infrastructure and initiatives in the state.

In order to register an electric or hybrid vehicle in Louisiana, owners must provide documentation proving the type of vehicle, such as a manufacturer’s certificate of origin for new vehicles or a title for used vehicles. They must also submit an inspection sticker associated with the vehicle class.

Additionally, certain electric and hybrid vehicles may qualify for special license plates, such as the Electric Vehicle/Plug-In Hybrid plate which allows access to HOV lanes and free street parking in certain areas. These plates require submission of proof of ownership and payment of additional fees.

Owners of electric or hybrid commercial vehicles may also be eligible for tax credits or incentives. For more information on specific requirements and incentives available, it is best to contact the Louisiana Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) directly.

10. What are the penalties for driving with an expired or unregistered vehicle in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, driving with an expired or unregistered vehicle can result in the following penalties:

1. A traffic citation – If you are caught driving with an expired or unregistered vehicle, you may receive a traffic citation from law enforcement.

2. Fines – The fines for driving with an expired or unregistered vehicle in Louisiana can range from $50 to $300.

3. Registration renewal fee – If your vehicle registration has expired, you will need to renew it and pay the registration fee before you can legally drive your vehicle again.

4. Late fees – If you allow your registration to expire, you will also be responsible for paying late fees on top of the regular registration fee.

5. Vehicle impoundment – In some cases, law enforcement may impound your vehicle if it is found to be expired or unregistered.

6. Suspension of registration privileges – Repeated offenses of driving with an expired or unregistered vehicle may result in the suspension of your registration privileges.

7. Points on your driver’s license – Depending on the circumstances, you may receive points on your driver’s license for driving with an expired or unregistered vehicle.

8. License plate sticker not received by mail- In Louisiana, license plate renewal stickers are sent by mail and must be displayed on your vehicle’s license plate by a specified date each year. Failure to display a current sticker subject drivers to fines/court cost ranging $151-$500 Monthly fine imposed after date noted below combined with dismissal fee for appearing once at BMV results in up Time when I have costs exceeding $306(next fine added). Before voicing unfair laws which compromise our convictions,it’ll help pro riders spread any message against me,the worst David Duke

9. Increased insurance rates- Driving with an unregistered or expired vehicle can also lead to increased rates from car insurance companies as they view this as a sign of negligence and increased risk while driving.

10. Criminal charges – If you knowingly continue to drive with an expired or unregistered vehicle and are involved in an accident or if the vehicle is used for illegal activities, you may face criminal charges.

11. Is there a difference between registering a personal and commercial vehicle in Louisiana?

Yes, there are some differences between registering a personal and commercial vehicle in Louisiana. Some of the main differences include:

1. Registration fees: Commercial vehicles often have higher registration fees than personal vehicles due to the larger size and weight of commercial vehicles.

2. Insurance requirements: Commercial vehicles may have different insurance requirements compared to personal vehicles. For example, commercial vehicles may require higher liability coverage or additional types of insurance such as cargo or business use insurance.

3. Vehicle classification: Louisiana has different vehicle classes for personal and commercial vehicles. Personal vehicles fall under passenger class, while commercial vehicles fall under various classes depending on their weight and purpose.

4. Required documents: When registering a commercial vehicle in Louisiana, you will need to provide additional documentation such as a DOT number, a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) license certificate, and proof of vehicle ownership.

5. Inspection requirements: Commercial vehicles must undergo regular inspections by the FMCSA to ensure they meet safety standards. Personal vehicles do not typically have such inspection requirements.

It is important to follow the specific registration requirements for your type of vehicle in order to avoid any issues or penalties.

12. Can I register my vehicle online or do I need to visit a DMV office in Louisiana?

You can register your vehicle online through the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles website or you can visit a DMV office in person.

13. How soon after moving to Louisiana do I need to register my out-of-state vehicle?


If you are moving to Louisiana from another state, you must register your out-of-state vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency in the state. This can be done at your local Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) office.

14. Does my leased vehicle need to be registered under my name or the leasing company’s name in Louisiana?

Your leased vehicle must be registered under the name of the leasing company in Louisiana. The company will then provide you with a copy of the registration, which you must keep in your vehicle at all times.

15. Are personalized license plates available and how do I apply for them in Louisiana?

Yes, personalized license plates are available in Louisiana. You can apply for them online through the Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) website or by mail with a Special Plate Order Form.

To apply for a personalized plate online, you will need to select the “Personalized License Plate” option on the OMV website and follow the instructions provided. You will need to enter your vehicle information and choose from available plate designs and letter combinations. You will also need to pay a fee for the personalized plate, which varies depending on the type of plate you choose.

If you prefer to apply by mail, you will need to download and complete the Special Plate Order Form from the OMV website. The form must be mailed, along with any required documentation and payment, to your local OMV office.

It’s important to note that personalized plate requests are subject to approval by the OMV. In some cases, certain letter combinations may not be available due to state laws or regulations. Additionally, obscene or offensive combinations will not be approved.

For more information on personalized license plates in Louisiana, you can contact your local OMV office or visit their website.

16. Do military personnel stationed in Louisiana have different vehicle registration requirements?

Yes, military personnel stationed in Louisiana may have different vehicle registration requirements. If they are residents of Louisiana, they will need to follow the same vehicle registration requirements as civilians. However, if they are not residents of Louisiana and are only stationed there temporarily, they may be exempt from registering their vehicle in the state. They should check with their base’s legal office or the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles for more information on vehicle registration exemptions for military personnel.

17. What documents do I need to bring when registering a new-to-me used car in Louisiana?

You will need to bring the following documents when registering a new-to-me used car in Louisiana:

1. Vehicle title – The original title signed over to you by the previous owner or dealership.

2. Bill of sale – A document showing evidence of the purchase price and date of purchase for tax purposes.

3. Vehicle registration application (Form DPSMV 1799) – This form can be obtained from your local Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) or on their website.

4. Odometer disclosure statement – If the vehicle is less than 10 years old, you will need to provide an odometer disclosure statement signed by both the buyer and seller.

5. Current inspection certificate – A valid inspection sticker from the State Police or a contracted inspection service provider.

6. Proof of insurance – You will need to provide proof of insurance for the vehicle that meets Louisiana’s minimum coverage requirements.

7. Identification – A valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.

8. Proof of identity and residency – You may also need to provide additional documents to prove your identity and Louisiana residency, such as utility bills, lease agreements, or voter registration cards.

9. Lienholder information (if applicable) – If there is a lien on the vehicle, you will need to provide information about the lender, including their name and address.

10. Payment for fees and taxes – Registration fees and taxes vary depending on the value of your vehicle. Contact your local OMV office for an estimate or visit their website for a fee calculator.

18. How do I update my address on my vehicle registration if I move within the state of Louisiana?

To update your address on your Louisiana vehicle registration, you will need to visit your local Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) office and bring the following documents:

1. Your current vehicle registration
2. Proof of insurance
3. A completed Address Change Request form (available at the OMV office)
4. Proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement

You may also be required to pay a fee for the updated registration card with your new address. It is important to update your address within 10 days of moving to avoid potential penalties or fines.

19.Can you drive an unregistered car if it is insured and has temporary tags issued by the dealer, while waiting for permanent tags issued by DMV?


It varies by state. In some states, it is illegal to drive an unregistered vehicle even if it is insured and has temporary tags issued by the dealer. It is best to check with your state’s DMV to confirm the laws regarding driving an unregistered vehicle. In some cases, there may be certain conditions or restrictions in place for driving with temporary tags on an unregistered car.

20. In the case of a lost or stolen license plate, what is the procedure for obtaining a replacement in Louisiana?

If your license plate has been lost or stolen in Louisiana, you will need to take the following steps to obtain a replacement:

1. Report the loss or theft of your license plate to your local law enforcement agency. This report will serve as proof that your plate was lost or stolen.

2. Go to your local Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) office and complete an Application for Duplicate License Plate/Decal (Form DPSMV 2089).

3. You will need to provide a photocopy of your driver’s license or another form of identification, along with the registration certificate for the vehicle that the lost or stolen plate was registered to.

4. If you believe that your plate was stolen and may be used fraudulently, you can also request a new vehicle registration number by completing an Additional Request to Cancel/Replace License Plate/Decal/Smart Sticker (Form DPSMV 2241).

5. Pay the required fee for a duplicate plate. As of 2021, the fee for a duplicate license plate in Louisiana is $8.

6. Once you have completed these steps, you will be issued a new license plate and/or registration number.

It is important to report a lost or stolen license plate as soon as possible to prevent identity theft or fraudulent use of your registration information.