Frequently Asked Questions

Are you in search of reliable auto title services in New Orleans? Look no further than Dat Title, your trusted partner in all things related to auto titles. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we aim to provide clarity and assistance to all our clients. To ensure you have all the information you need, we've compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions about our services:

Common FAQS

What is an Auto Title Company?

An Auto Title Company (ATC) is a person, firm, association or corporation contracted with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles and who is engaged primarily in the transfer and recordation of sales, leases or mortgages of vehicles.

An Auto Title Company may:

collect sales/use tax and registration fees
remit sales/use tax and registration fees collected along with vehicle title and registration documents on behalf of vehicle owners, lessees, dealers or lending institutions the Office of Motor Vehicles or a Public Tag Agent for issuance of a title or registration
issue temporary registration markers

What is a Public Tag Agent?

A Public Tag Agent (PTA) may be municipal or parish governing authorities, new motor vehicle dealers, or auto title companies that are authorized by the state of Louisiana to:

collect sales/use tax and registration fees
issue vehicle registrations and license plates for vehicles
process applications filed for certificates of title, including duplicate and corrected titles
handle conversions, transfers, and replacement of license plates and registration renewals
issue driver’s license renewals, including Real IDs

Services provided by PTAs may vary. A complete list of PTAs and the services they perform can be found here.

Per R.S. 47:532.1, PTAs can charge a convenience fee of up to $23 per transaction.

A Public Tag Agent (PTA) may be municipal or parish governing authorities, new motor vehicle dealers, or auto title companies that are authorized by the state of Louisiana to:

collect sales/use tax and registration fees
issue vehicle registrations and license plates for vehicles
process applications filed for certificates of title, including duplicate and corrected titles
handle conversions, transfers, and replacement of license plates and registration renewals
issue driver’s license renewals, including Real IDs

Services provided by PTAs may vary. A complete list of PTAs and the services they perform can be found here.

Per R.S. 47:532.1, PTAs can charge a convenience fee of up to $23 per transaction.

I've lost my license, can you help?

A duplicate license or identification card may be issued when a license or identification card has been lost, stolen, or mutilated.

Requirements

Proper identification must be presented unless the applicant can be identified through the Department’s Photo Retrieve program.

if the license will expire within 90 days, the transaction must be processed as a renewal.
If the license will expire within 180 days, the applicant has the option to renew.

Exceptions

If an applicant eighteen years of age or over applies for a duplicate Louisiana driver's license or identification card and a photo image exists under the Photo Retrieve Program and the applicant is clearly identified, no other identification is required.
If an applicant under the age of eighteen applies for a duplicate Louisiana driver's license and a photo image exists under the Photo Retrieve Program and the applicant is clearly identified, the signature of the custodial parent or legal guardian is required prior to issuance.
If an applicant seventeen years of age applies for a duplicate Louisiana Identification card and a photo image exists under the Photo Retrieve Program and the applicant is clearly identified, the credential can be issued without the custodial parent/guardian's signature.

- How do I change my name on my license or ID card?

The Office of Motor Vehicles has on-line verification with the Social Security Administration. All name changes must be recorded with the Social Security Administration prior to your visit to the Office of Motor Vehicles.

To have your name changed on your license, you must go to the Office of Motor Vehicles with original documentation that supports the name change (i.e., certified birth certificate, state-certified marriage license, divorce decree, probate court documents, etc.), your current license, proof of residency and proof of insurance for any vehicle you own. You will be required to pass a vision test.

Minors, 17 years of age or younger, must be accompanied by a custodial parent or legal guardian with picture I.D. In the case of joint custody, only the domiciliary parent may sign.

If the applicant possesses multiple Louisiana credentials such as an ID card or mobility impaired hangtag, the name must be changed on those documents as well. The name on all credentials must be changed at the same time.

Can I renew my license with you and how long does it take?

Yes, with verbal of your social security number, we can renew your Louisiana Driver's License or Louisiana State ID. It can take as little as 5 minutes - and you can check your photo before we issue the final!

How many days before the expiration date can I renew my drivers license?

If you have a current license that is free from any suspension or revocation, you can renew within 180 days prior to expiration.

My drivers license is expired, what do I do?

If it is within 10 days of the expiration, come on in and we can renew it.

More than 10 days since the expiration? The state will charge a late fee, but come on and we can help.

Are you connected with the state?

Yes! Our computers are connected directly to the state computer! This means that any changes will be immediate. Need to get you plate or registration TODAY? Well, we can help!

How long will this take?

A registration will only take about 5 minutes, and a title transfer will take no more than 30! However, the more/less complicated the deal, the longer/shorter the time may be.

Can I transfer my boat trailer with you?

Of course! And, we can help with your boat and motor by preparing transfer documents and notary services. All you have to do is let us do the work!

Are you open on the weekends?

We apologize for any inconvenience, but we are only the same hours as the state, open Monday - Friday. If your work prevents you from coming during that time, please contact us for an appointment.

What is the cost?

The State of Louisiana allows us to charge a $23 convenience fee - which keeps you out of the lines at the state dmv.

How do I renew my License?

Louisiana law requires a license holder to be eligible to renew their license up to 180 days prior to or upon expiration. An applicant may change his class of license at renewal or between the renewal periods. Driver's license renewal invitations are issued to all qualified applicants about 100 days in advance of the month of expiration. If you do not receive the invitation, it will be necessary for you to renew your driver's license at your local Office of Motor Vehicles. Restriction changes may be made at any time.

Requirements

Proper Identification
Collection of the applicant’s social security number
Successful passing of vision test
Proof of current liability insurance, if applicable
Proof of Louisiana residency
Successful completion of required tests, if applicable

How do I change the address on my license or ID card?

Louisiana law requires that you notify the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles within 10 days any time your address changes. You must appear in person to have this transaction completed. Please take your driver’s license and proof of insurance for any vehicle you own. Proof of insurance is required on all motor vehicle transactions, as well as proof of residency

Minors, 17 or under, must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian with picture I.D. In the case of joint custody, only the domiciliary parent may sign.

NOTE: If you own a vehicle, please have the address corrected on the certificate of registration. Changing the address on your driver's license does not automatically change the address on any vehicles you may own.

If your driver's license expires within 90 days, you will be required to renew.

How long do I have to change my address if I move?

Louisiana law requires you to change the address on your license or identification within 10 days of your address change. Same for registration of your vehicle

Is there a “grace” period for an expired drivers license?

There is a 10 day grace period after expiration where you may renew your license without paying additional fees.

How do I transfer a vehicle from a deceased owner?

To have the vehicle transferred to a new owner, you must first determine how the estate has been settled by the heirs.
If a succession was opened through the courts, you must submit a certified copy of the final judgment of possession, showing the disposition of the vehicle.
If the heirs filed a small succession through the Department Of Revenue, you must submit the validated "Affidavit of Small Succession", along with the descriptive list of property, which must include a description of the vehicle in question.
If the requirements for opening a succession or the filing of a small succession cannot be met, it will be necessary for the heirs to complete an "Affidavit of Heirship." This form must be accompanied by a photostatic copy of the death certificate. If the decedent died testate (executed a will), a copy of the will or a notarized statement of its contents relevant to vehicles must be submitted. The notarized statement must be made and signed by the one in possession of the original will.
In addition to these requirements, the following documents may be necessary:

Vehicle Application form (DPSMV1799) for title properly executed by the recipient of the vehicle.
Certificate of title, if available. If the issue date of the title is January 1, 1990 or later, the assignment of the title must be completed by one of the heirs and the recipient of the vehicle and notarized.
Current certificate of registration, if available.
Notarized bill of sale or act of donation from all heirs to the recipient of the vehicle.
Federal odometer disclosure statement completed by the buyer and seller on vehicles within ten model years.
If the decedent's title reflected a lien, you must submit a satisfaction of lien written on the lienholder's company letterhead. The letter must include name, address, and telephone number of the lienholder.
If a lien is to be recorded in the new owner's name, you must submit a completed UCC-1 or Security Agreement showing a full description of the vehicle. When a UCC instrument is submitted to record a lien, include a $15.00 recordation fee. When any other lien instrument is submitted to record a lien, include a $10.00 recordation fee.
If the vehicle is being sold, sales tax is due based on the selling price of the vehicle. The percentage of sales tax due is determined by applicant's domicile.
If an heir is an out-of-state resident and the state of residence will not accept the Louisiana Affidavit of Heirship, written documentation from that state indicating that the Louisiana Heirship form will not be accepted must be submitted with the file.
All files with a date of sale on or after August 1, 2012, must include a copy of the vehicle owner's current and valid photo identification. The photo identification provided should be a driver's license or identification card issued by this state, another state, or by the United States military.

How do I register a vehicle purchased out-of-state?

A Vehicle Application form (DPSMV1799) must be completed and signed by the applicant.
The current certificate of title must be submitted with the assignment completed and notarized, if applicable.
If a lien was recorded, it must be properly released.
Vehicles less than ten years old must have the federal odometer disclosure completed on the title, otherwise, a separate odometer statement must be submitted.
The notarized bill of sale or invoice with the full description of the vehicle must be submitted if the title assignment does not reflect the date of sale, selling price, and buyer/seller signatures.
Original or a copy of the financing statement or security agreement must be included if a lien is to be recorded.
All files with a date of sale on or after August 1, 2012, must include a copy of the vehicle owner's current and valid photo identification. The photo identification provided should be a driver's license or identification card issued by this state, another state, or by the United States military.

Proof of liability insurance coverage is required, unless the vehicle was purchased from a dealer.

The following additional documents will be required, along with the above, when the vehicle was purchased from an individual out of state.

If neither the bill of sale nor the assignment of title is notarized out of state, a notarized affidavit is required from the out of state registered owner attesting to the fact that they are not a resident of Louisiana, or a copy of the seller's out-of-state driver's license (front and back) must be submitted.
If the documentation submitted was notarized in Louisiana, and no residency documents are included in the file, it can then be assumed that the registered owner shown on the out-of-state title has become a resident of Louisiana and must pay use tax. A "double transfer" will then be processed with tax collected on both transactions.

What do I need for a duplicate or replacement registration?

Vehicle Identification Number or current plate number
Make and model of the vehicle
Proof of insurance

What is a REAL ID?

On May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.
Find out if you’re REAL ID ready with our REAL ID Checklist.
The REAL ID Act enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses.” The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards and prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards. The enforcement date is May 7, 2025.
These purposes are:

Accessing certain federal facilities
Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft
Entering nuclear power plants

When must I have a REAL ID?

May 7, 2025

When will REAL ID be enforced?

The current enforcement date is scheduled for May 7, 2025. Beginning May 7, 2025, every Louisiana resident will need to present a REAL ID compliant license/ID, or another acceptable form of identification, for accessing federal facilities, entering nuclear power plants, and boarding commercial aircraft. The card, itself, must be REAL ID compliant unless the resident is using an alternative acceptable document such as a passport or passport card, or state-issued Enhanced Driver’s License.

How do I transfer a vehicle from a deceased owner?

Vehicle Application form (DPSMV1799) for title properly executed by the recipient of the vehicle.
Certificate of title, if available. If the issue date of the title is January 1, 1990 or later, the assignment of the title must be completed by one of the heirs and the recipient of the vehicle and notarized.
Current certificate of registration, if available.
Notarized bill of sale or act of donation from all heirs to the recipient of the vehicle.
Federal odometer disclosure statement completed by the buyer and seller on vehicles within ten model years.
If the decedent's title reflected a lien, you must submit a satisfaction of lien written on the lienholder's company letterhead. The letter must include name, address, and telephone number of the lienholder.
If a lien is to be recorded in the new owner's name, you must submit a completed UCC-1 or Security Agreement showing a full description of the vehicle. When a UCC instrument is submitted to record a lien, include a $15.00 recordation fee. When any other lien instrument is submitted to record a lien, include a $10.00 recordation fee.
If the vehicle is being sold, sales tax is due based on the selling price of the vehicle. The percentage of sales tax due is determined by applicant's domicile.
If an heir is an out-of-state resident and the state of residence will not accept the Louisiana Affidavit of Heirship, written documentation from that state indicating that the Louisiana Heirship form will not be accepted must be submitted with the file.
All files with a date of sale on or after August 1, 2012, must include a copy of the vehicle owner's current and valid photo identification. The photo identification provided should be a driver's license or identification card issued by this state, another state, or by the United States military.

How do I apply for a “Salvage” title?

When, as a result of an insurance settlement, a motor vehicle is declared to be a total loss, the insurance company, its authorized agent or the vehicle owner must apply for a salvage title within thirty (30) days from the settlement of the property damage claim. A salvage title is issued in the name of the insurance company, its authorized agent or vehicle owner who may dismantle, sell, rebuild or restore the salvaged vehicle.
The following items must be submitted before a salvage title can be issued:

A completed Vehicle Application form (DPSMV1799) with the words "Salvage Title" written across the face of the application.
The properly assigned title or manufacturer’s statement of origin with the words "Salvage Title" written across the face of title or statement of origin.
A copy of the proof of loss from the insurance company.
A UCC-1 financing statement or security agreement to record lien (if applicable).
A notarized authorization from the insurance company naming the agent and including a complete description of the vehicle (model year, make, body style and complete vehicle identification number of the vehicle), if the vehicle is being titled in the name of the insurance company’s authorized agent’s name.
Disclosure of salvage vehicle form.
If a lien is to be recorded, you must submit a completed UCC-1 or Security Agreement showing a full description of the vehicle. When a UCC instrument is submitted to record a lien, include a $15.00 recordation fee. When any other lien instrument is submitted to record a lien, include a $10.00 recordation fee.

How do I register a vehicle purchased out-of-state?

A Vehicle Application form (DPSMV1799) must be completed and signed by the applicant.
The current certificate of title must be submitted with the assignment completed and notarized, if applicable.
If a lien was recorded, it must be properly released.
Vehicles less than ten years old must have the federal odometer disclosure completed on the title, otherwise, a separate odometer statement must be submitted.
The notarized bill of sale or invoice with the full description of the vehicle must be submitted if the title assignment does not reflect the date of sale, selling price, and buyer/seller signatures.
Original or a copy of the financing statement or security agreement must be included if a lien is to be recorded.
All files with a date of sale on or after August 1, 2012, must include a copy of the vehicle owner's current and valid photo identification. The photo identification provided should be a driver's license or identification card issued by this state, another state, or by the United States military.

Proof of liability insurance coverage is required, unless the vehicle was purchased from a dealer.

The following additional documents will be required, along with the above, when the vehicle was purchased from an individual out of state.

If neither the bill of sale nor the assignment of title is notarized out of state, a notarized affidavit is required from the out of state registered owner attesting to the fact that they are not a resident of Louisiana, or a copy of the seller's out-of-state driver's license (front and back) must be submitted.
If the documentation submitted was notarized in Louisiana, and no residency documents are included in the file, it can then be assumed that the registered owner shown on the out-of-state title has become a resident of Louisiana and must pay use tax. A "double transfer" will then be processed with tax collected on both transactions.

What do I need for a duplicate or replacement registration?

Vehicle Identification Number or current plate number
Make and model of the vehicle
Proof of insurance

How do I get a Special or Personalized Plate?

Louisiana offers a wide variety of specialty license plates, as well as your choice of a personalized plate. Selecting the link under Online Services at https://www.expresslane.org will allow you to view available plate options and submit your request online for OMV processing. Special plate selections will allow you to view applicable fees and print necessary paperwork to be mailed to OMV for processing.

Important information for requesting a specialty license plate:

The vehicle must be properly titled and registered in your name in Louisiana.
Certain specialty plates have specific qualifications and eligibility requirements - take note of these when ordering.
Specialty plate fees vary. The fee calculation on this site is valid for regular license plates only. Calculations may change and are non-binding.

How do I get a Mobility Impaired Hang Tag?

A Physician's Certification of Mobility Impairment form (for handicap placards and license plates), DPSMV 1966, which has been completed by the mobility impaired individual's physician.
If the mobility impaired person has a Louisiana ID card/driver's license with a clearly identifying photo and their Social Security Number is on file, additional identification is not required. Otherwise, the applicant must provide the same identification documentation as when obtaining an ID card/driver's license. See New License page for a list of acceptable documents.

How do I renew my Mobility Impaired Hang Tag

Bring the following with you:

Your current hang tag
Your mobility impaired identification card
A Physician's Certification of Mobility Impairment form (for handicap placards and license plates), DPSMV 1966, which has been completed by the mobility impaired individual's physician ONLY if you were issued a temporary hang tag. Only one renewal will be allowed for a temporary impairment.

How do I get a Mobility Impaired Plate?

Individuals who have a permanent, lifetime disability can apply for a mobility-impaired license plate. Only vehicles titled in Louisiana will be eligible for issuance of mobility impaired Plates.

To obtain a license plate for a mobility-impaired person, the following must be submitted to the OMV:

A Vehicle Application form, DPSMV 1799, which has been completed by the vehicle owner.
A Physician's Certification of Mobility Impairment form (for handicap placards and license plates), DPSMV 1966, which has been completed by the mobility impaired individual's physician.
If the vehicle is titled in the mobility impaired person's name and is currently registered, the license plate and registration must be submitted.
If the plate is being used on a vehicle that is not in the name of the mobility impaired individual, the Designation of Mobility Impaired License Plate form (DPSMV 4222) must be completed and submitted.
Proof of insurance
If there is no license plate assigned to the vehicle at the time application for a mobility impaired plate is made, a copy of each vehicle owner’s current and valid photo identification (driver’s license or identification card issued by this state or another state) must be submitted.

How do I get a replacement Mobility Impaired Tag Hang Tag or ID Card if it is lost or damaged?

If a hang tag or mobility impaired identification card is lost, destroyed or mutilated, the person to whom the tag or card was issued may obtain a new hang tag or ID card by submitting to the local Office of Motor Vehicles a statement attesting to the loss, destruction, or mutilation.

If the mobility impaired person has a Louisiana ID card/driver's license with a clearly identifying photo and their Social Security Number is on file, additional identification is not required. Otherwise, the applicant must provide the same identification documentation as when obtaining a duplicate ID card/driver's license. See the New Licenses webpage for a list of acceptable documents.

A new hang tag or ID card will be issued for the same duration as the original hang tag or ID card.

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