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Free Louisiana Bill of Sale Template

A Louisiana bill of sale is a legal document that records the transfer of ownership of a vehicle, boat, trailer, firearm, motorcycle, or other personal property. It provides proof of purchase and may be required for titling and registration with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) or the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

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  • Duration 2 min
  • Download as PDF and Word
  • E-sign included

Written by Josh Sainsbury | Attorney-Reviewed by Harvey Barbee, J.D.

How It works?

1

Choose Your Template

Pick the Louisiana bill of sale template that fits your transaction—vehicle, boat, trailer, firearm, or motorcycle.

2

Fill Out the Details

List buyer and seller information, describe the property, add serial numbers, and include the sale price.

3

Sign & Notarize

Louisiana requires most bills of sale for vehicles, trailers, and motorcycles to be notarized before they are valid.

Table of Contents

  1. What Is a Louisiana Bill of Sale?
  2. When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in Louisiana?
  3. Does a Louisiana Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?
  4. Louisiana-Specific Rules & Requirements

What Is a Louisiana Bill of Sale?

A Louisiana bill of sale typically includes:

  • Buyer and seller’s names and contact details
  • Description of the item (make, model, year, VIN/HIN/serial number)
  • Sale price and payment method
  • Date of sale
  • Signatures of both parties, notarized when required

It protects both parties by providing proof of the transaction and serves as evidence of ownership.

When Do You Need a Bill of Sale in Louisiana?

A bill of sale in Louisiana is commonly required or recommended for:

  • Vehicles: A bill of sale isn’t usually required if the vehicle title already shows the sale date, price, and notarized signatures. You’ll need one if the title is missing that information, there’s no title, or for salvage and certain special transfers.
  • Boats: Required when registering a boat if you’re buying from an individual or bringing a boat in from out of state.
  • Trailers: Can serve as proof of trailer ownership, but if you don’t have one, you must provide two notarized affidavits from people with personal knowledge of how you acquired it.
  • Firearms: Not required by law but recommended to document private sales. Louisiana does not require background checks or waiting periods for private transfers.
  • Motorcycles: Can be required for a motorcycle transfer, especially if the title is incomplete, missing sale details, or if the transaction is a private sale or involves a dealer in a state that requires notarization.

Does a Louisiana Bill of Sale Have to Be Notarized?

Yes, in most cases.

  • Vehicles: Most private sales require notarization unless the sales price is written on the title. Sales through licensed dealers after January 1, 2023, no longer require notarization.
  • Boats: Must be notarized.
  • Trailers: Must be notarized, especially for used trailers or out-of-state titles.
  • Firearms: Notarization not required but strongly advised.
  • Motorcycles: Must be notarized to complete registration.

Louisiana-Specific Rules & Requirements

  • Sales Tax: Louisiana buyers must pay a 5% state sales tax, plus any applicable parish taxes (combined rates typically range from 4% to 9%), when registering vehicles, boats, or trailers.
  • Vehicle Registration: Can be renewed online with proof of insurance and a valid credit card. New documents arrive by mail within 30 days.
  • Boat Registration: Motorized boats, larger sailboats, and houseboats must be registered with LDWF. Fees depend on boat length, and registration is valid for three years. Owners must keep the certificate on board and renew within 60 days of expiration.
  • Trailer Registration: Trailers must be registered through the Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV). Thanks to an LDWF–OMV partnership, boat owners can handle both boat and trailer registrations at LDWF headquarters in Baton Rouge on Mondays.
  • Firearms: Does not require firearm registration, but permits are needed to carry a concealed handgun. 
  • Motorcycle Registration: Must register your motorcycle with the OMV within 40 days of purchase or 30 days of moving. Bring proof of ownership, insurance, inspection, and fees; registration lasts four years.