Can I deduct my trade-in on a private car sale in Louisiana?

Trade-in credit applies when you buy from a dealer with a qualifying trade-in. In an even trade between two individuals, tax is due only on the difference in value.

Does Louisiana require a notarized bill of sale?

The title must be assigned before a notary by the seller. A bill of sale showing the price must be notarized too, unless the price is written in the title assignment.

How much does a vehicle title cost in Louisiana?

The title fee is $68.50, plus an $8 handling fee and a local fee of up to $6. Recording a lien costs $10, or $15 with a UCC-1 financing statement.

Do I pay Louisiana vehicle tax if I buy a car from an out-of-state private seller?

Yes. Tax is assessed on the sale price when you title the vehicle in Louisiana. If you buy from an out-of-state seller, show proof the seller lives out of state (such as a copy of their license or a document notarized out of state), or OMV may process it as more than one transfer.

Is a vehicle transfer between family members taxable in Louisiana?

No sales or use tax is due on an act of donation, which is signed before a notary and two witnesses (Form DPSMV1699). Transfers by affidavit of heirship, divorce decree, or judgment of possession are also not taxed. Title, handling, and plate fees still apply.

How long do I have to title and register a private vehicle purchase in Louisiana?

Sales tax is due by the 40th day after the sale. After that, a penalty of 5% of the tax for each 30 days applies (up to 25%), plus interest.

Verified for 2026 Louisiana Statutory Rates

Louisiana Private Party Car Tax Calculator

Calculate your true first-year out-of-pocket costs for a private vehicle sale in Louisiana. Accurately accounts for 5% excise/sales tax, $76.50 certificate of title fee, 2-year tag registration, and state-specific regulations.

Vehicle & Transaction Details

Enter purchase information to calculate true out-of-pocket costs in Louisiana.

State of Registration51 Jurisdictions Active

Vehicle Type

Purchase Price (Agreed Sale Price)Louisiana 5% tax base

Vehicle Model Year7 years old

Registration TermLouisiana tag options

2-Year Term (Louisiana registers for two years)

Powertrain / Fuel TypeEV surcharge rules

Financing & Lien FilingLien fee: $10.00

Trade-in Value (Optional)Louisiana: Non-Deductible

Louisiana Notice: Louisiana taxes the full agreed vehicle price. Trade-ins do not reduce the tax base on private-party sales.

Official Notice & Statutory Disclaimers

Estimates only, not tax or legal advice. Verify with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) or the Louisiana Department of Revenue.

Sales tax is the 5% state rate plus parish and municipal tax (2% to 8.5%) where the vehicle is domiciled, due by the 40th day after the sale.

The title shown includes the $68.50 title fee and $8 handling fee. A local fee of up to $6 may apply.

The plate is 0.1% of the sale price per year, with a $10,000 minimum value, sold for two years ($20 minimum). A motorcycle plate is $12 and lasts four years.

Electric vehicles owe a $110 road usage fee and hybrids $60 for each year, billed later by notice.

The title assignment must be signed before a notary.

County & Local Tax Note: Louisiana’s 5% state sales tax plus parish and municipal tax, from 2% to 8.5% in the OMV parish tax table (October 2026), is due based on where the vehicle is domiciled.

Vehicle HistorySponsored Link

Check this VIN before you buy

Spot accident, title, and odometer problems before you pay a private seller.

Check the VIN

We may earn a commission if you use partner links. It doesn't change your estimate.

Estimated taxes & fees

Jurisdiction

Louisiana

Estimated taxes & fees

$1,156.50 – $2,131.50

Sales/Excise Tax (State + Local Range) + Title Certificate + Tags & Registration

Itemized Line ItemEstimated Fee

1Vehicle Sales / Excise Tax (5% State + Local Range)

State tax $750.00 + Local tax (varies by county) $300.00–$1,275.00

$1,050.00 – $2,025.00

2Certificate of Title Fee

Standard state title certificate issuance

$76.50

3Lien / Security Filing Fee

Unfinanced / cash purchase (waived $0.00)

$0.00

4Registration & Tag Fee

Base license plates & tags

$30.00

Louisiana rates last verified: October 2026