License Plate FAQs

How do I apply for vehicle license plates?

There are three ways to apply for license plates in Louisiana:

• If you purchased your vehicle from a Louisiana dealer, the company will complete the necessary paperwork and issue a 60-day temporary cardboard plate that you can display until your permanent license plates arrive.

• If you purchased your vehicle from a private seller, you have five days after the purchase to visit your nearest Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) and obtain a title. You can apply for new plates at this time.

• If you are a new Louisiana resident, you will need to visit the nearest OMV to present your out-of-state title and registration certificate. However, if your title is held by an out-of-state lienholder, a photocopy of the document is acceptable.

According to Louisiana law, you must provide proof of liability insurance or an allowable substitute when applying for vehicle license plates. If you provide false information on your license plate application, your vehicle registration will be suspended and you may face fines or possible jail time.

How much does it cost to register my vehicle and receive license plates?

Typically, the OMV levies a fee of $10 per year for cars, vans, and sport utility vehicles with a value of $10,000 or less, plus $1 per year per $1,000 of value over $10,000. For private minimum-use pickup trucks of 6,000 pounds or less, the license plate fee is $10 per year.

In Louisiana, automobile license plates are issued for a period of two years. However, truck plates are issued for four years.

If you have questions about the fees associated with vehicle license plates, contact your nearest OMV.

When do I renew my license plates?

Louisiana law states that your vehicle license plate expires on the last day of the month in the year listed on your registration certificate. For your convenience, you may renew your license plates up to 60 days prior to expiration. Renewals can be processed in person, online, or by phone.

As a public service, the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles will send a registration renewal notice to your last recorded address. Even if you don't receive this notice, however, you must still renew your license plates by the expiration date in order to avoid fines and penalties.

What should I do with my old license plates if I sell my vehicle?

Before you cancel your auto insurance, return your old license plates to your local OMV.

How do I replace missing or damaged license plates?

If you have lost or damaged your license plates, you will need to contact the nearest OMV to ask for replacement plates. The OMV will ask you to produce proof of ownership and vehicle registration.

If you applied for license plates or renewal stickers by mail but failed to receive them, you may request free replacements at your nearest motor vehicle office within 60 days. However, you will need to provide proof of payment if the OMV can't locate your transaction records.

How do I buy a personalized license plate?

Personalized license plates, also known as prestige plates, are a great way to add personality to your vehicle. Louisiana drivers can request personalized license plates by completing a short application and paying a charge of $25 in addition to the regular annual vehicle registration fee. There is also a one-time $8 handling fee and $3.50 administrative fee associated with the purchase of personalized license plates. Several designs are available, including license plates to honor military veterans or to show your support for Louisiana colleges and universities.

To learn more about how to request personalized license plates for your vehicle, visit our special section about license plates and placards.

If you are considering purchasing personalized license plates for your vehicle, remember that your old plates will automatically be canceled when your new license plates arrive. Although there's no need to return the old plates to your local motor vehicle office, you should make sure they are destroyed as soon as possible.

Does Louisana issue special plates for antique vehicles?

Yes. See our License Plates & Placards section for information on the application process and vehicle qualifications.

Do I have to return my Louisiana license plates after relocating to another state?

To properly cancel your registration the DMV does require you to return your plates. You can either do this by mail or by delivering in person to any DMV office.

Questions? Call (877) 368-5463.