Louisiana Bill of Sale

Louisiana requires a bill of sale for private vehicle sales if the title does not include certain key information, such as the date of sale.
Written by R.E. Fulton
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
The state of
Louisiana
requires a notarized
bill of sale
for any private vehicle sale where the car’s title does not include the date of sale, purchase price, or names and signatures of both the buyer and seller.  
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What is a bill of sale?

A notarized bill of sale acts as the official record of a private vehicle sale. It shows the details of the transaction, such as purchase price and date, and indicates a transfer of ownership by including the names of both buyer and seller. 
A bill of sale is not the same thing as a title transfer. The vehicle’s title is a separate document which certifies the ownership of the car. To sell a car in Louisiana, you’ll have to
transfer the title
in order to officially release your responsibility for the vehicle. You’ll also need to fill out a
Notice of Transfer of Vehicle (Form DPSMV 1697)
in addition to the title transfer and bill of sale, if applicable.

Is a bill of sale required in Louisiana?

The state of Louisiana only requires a bill of sale for private vehicle sales if the car’s title does not include the following information: 
  • Date of sale
  • Sale price
  • Names and signatures of all buyers and sellers
If your car’s title is missing any of the above information, you must fill out a bill of sale in addition to transferring the title and completing the Notice of Transfer of Vehicle. 

What is required in a Louisiana bill of sale?

The Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles provides a
basic bill of sale form
for private vehicle sales. It’s a straightforward form, and requires the following information: 
  • Names and signatures of all sellers and buyers
  • Make, model, year, and vehicle identification number (VIN) of the vehicle
  • Vehicle sale price
  • Date of sale 
  • Notary’s signature
Complete the bill of sale along with the other parties and have it notarized. The document includes a guarantee from the seller that the car does not carry a lien. 

What should I do after I get a bill of sale?

After you’ve filled out and notarized the bill of sale, it’s time to complete the title transfer and report the sale to the DMV! Complete and sign the vehicle’s title and fill out the notice of transfer. Before you make the final exchange, make sure that the seller’s license plates are removed from the car. 
Both the buyer and the seller should keep a copy of the bill of sale for at least five years following the transaction. This document will ensure that you both have a record of the sale that could protect you from negative legal consequences down the road. 
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