Louisiana Bill of Sale Template for Vehicles and Boats

Are you selling or transferring ownership of a car, boat, or other vehicle types in Louisiana? Ensure legal proof of sale and ownership and protect yourself in case of disputes with a free Louisiana Bill of Sale. 

Louisiana Bill of Sale Form

Easily download our free Louisiana Bill of Sale template today to create a legally sound document securing your vehicle transaction.

What is the Louisiana Bill of Sale For?

When buying or selling used cars, a Louisiana motor vehicle bill of sale provides information regarding the purchase and sale of a vehicle between the buyer and seller. It serves as evidence of a transaction in which the vehicle’s ownership changed from one party to another. 

Here are some instances where a Louisiana bill of sale is required:

  • Legal Proof of Ownership Transfer: The bill of sale serves as legal evidence that ownership has been transferred from the seller to the buyer. This helps protect both parties in case of disputes.
  • Vehicle Registration & Title Transfer: Louisiana law requires a bill of sale when applying for a new title or registering the vehicle with the Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV).
  • Tax and Financial Record Keeping: It provides proof of the transaction value, which is useful for tax calculations, insurance purposes, and financial records.

Get a Vehicle History Report in Louisiana or a Window Sticker

Wait a minute! Before you open your wallet to purchase a used car and sign the bill of sale, ensure you get the vehicle history report using our VIN check tool. A vehicle history report provides valuable insights into previous owners, accidents, title issues, mileage history, recalls, and more.

What Details Are Included in the Vehicle History Report?

Running a VIN check with Detailed Vehicle History provides comprehensive insights into the vehicle. Here’s what you can expect in your report.

In addition to the vehicle’s history, getting the car window sticker helps you understand its original specifications, features, and more. The sticker reveals details like original MSRP, standard and optional equipment, fuel economy, and factory-installed options. This ensures transparency, helping you understand exactly what you’re buying before finalizing the bill of sale.

What's Included in a Window Sticker?

Our window sticker lookup provides all original factory details for your vehicle.

What Does the Louisiana Bill of Sale Contain?

A Louisiana vehicle bill of sale documents the transfer of ownership of a vehicle and generally includes details like:

Make

Model

Year

VIN Number

Vehicle Sale Price

Date of Sale

Buyer’s Name and Signature

Seller’s Name and Signature

Notary Public & signature

Why You Need a Bill of Sale?

Why Do Car Sellers Need a Louisiana Bill of Sale?

A Louisiana Bill of Sale is essential for car sellers as it provides legal proof of the transaction, protecting them from future liabilities. It records crucial details like the sale price, vehicle information, and buyer-seller identities. 

Additionally, it helps with tax purposes, registration, and avoiding disputes over ownership or condition.

Why Do Car Buyers Need a Louisiana Bill of Sale?

A Louisiana Bill of Sale protects car buyers by serving as legal proof of purchase, ensuring ownership transfer. It records vehicle details, sale price, and seller information, helping with registration and tax purposes. 

Additionally, it prevents fraud, confirms the agreed terms, and safeguards buyers from future disputes or hidden liabilities.

What to Check Before Buying a Used Car?

By conducting a Louisiana license plate lookup or running a VIN check, you can uncover the history of any used car for sale in Louisiana. Here are key reasons why it’s crucial to get a vehicle history report before you sign the vehicle’s bill of sale.

Detect Previous Damages

Reveals past accidents, flood damage, ensuring the car is safe and worth the price.

Mileage History Check

The mileage history helps detect odometer rollback fraud, preventing buyers from overpaying for a vehicle.

Check Service History

A vehicle service record shows if the car has been properly cared for, reducing the risk of costly repairs.

Confirm Title Status

A title check helps reveal if it's clean, salvage, rebuilt, or any undisclosed issue.

Prevent Fraud and Scams

Detect vehicles with hidden or legal issues and make an informed decision.

Stolen Record Check

Check for records of theft and avoid legal issues arising from buying a stolen vehicle.

How to Register a Vehicle in Louisiana

Follow these steps to register a vehicle in Louisiana:

Step 1: Get Insurance

Make sure to purchase Louisiana car insurance.

Step 2: Visit OMV Office

Visit a local OMV office and submit your registration documents.

Step 3: Submit Documents

The following will be required to register a used vehicle in Louisiana:

  • 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 a bill of sale or an invoice.
  • Ownership documents: The title certificate, signed over to you, and the vehicle’s current registration.
  • An odometer disclosure statement for vehicles under 10 years old.
  • Payment for fees and taxes.

Step 4: Register Your Car

You’ll get a standard license plate when you register your vehicle, unless you apply for a specialty plate.

How to Register a Boat in Louisiana

Follow these steps to register a boat in Louisiana with the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF):

Step 1: Determine Registration Status

Check if your boat needs registration (all motorized boats and non-motorized boats over 12 feet).

Step 2: Gather the Required Documents

Gather necessary information, including

  • Boat details like make, model, year, length, hull material, engine type, and hull identification number (HIN)
  • Owner contact like name, address, and phone number
  • Other required documents like dealer invoice, previous title and registration.
  • Tax Payment Certification Form

Step 3: Register the Boat

Complete the registration application online, in person, at a Wildlife and Fisheries office or at some marinas and boat dealerships. 

  • Provide proof of ownership, such as a title, bill of sale, notarized statement of ownership, and
  • Proof of registration (if registered in another state before).

Step 4: Make Payment

Pay the registration fee based on boat length.

  • Class A (15’11” or less) – $36
  • Class I (16’ – 25’11”) – $57
  • Class II (26’ – 39’11”) – $78
  • Class II (40’ or longer) – $99

Step 5: Affix Registration Number

Display registration numbers and decals on both sides of the bow.

Get a Vehicle Bill of Sale by State

Each state has its own requirements for an auto bill of sale. Click below to find the template for your state!

Frequently Asked Questions

In Louisiana, a bill of sale for a vehicle transfer must be notarized to ensure the document’s authenticity and compliance with state laws.

To obtain a Louisiana car title with a bill of sale:

  • Gather the original title (signed by the seller), a notarized bill of sale, a completed application for a certificate of title (Form DPSMV 1799), proof of insurance, and valid identification for both the buyer and seller.
  • Submit these documents and pay the required fees at your local Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV).

No, you cannot register a car in Louisiana with just a bill of sale and without a title; a valid title is required to prove ownership and complete the registration process.