In Louisiana, both parties (the seller, who is transferring the title, and the buyer, who is receiving the title) typically do not need to be present in person for a title transfer. However, the process may require both parties to sign and notarize the necessary documents to complete the transfer.
Here's how the process generally works:
Seller's Role. The seller (current owner) signs the back of the vehicle title in the designated seller's section. The seller's signature on the title must be notarized. This can usually be done at a notary public's office or a financial institution.
Buyer's Role. The buyer signs the back of the title in the designated buyer's section. The buyer may also complete the Vehicle Application (Form DPSMV 1799) and provide other required documents.
Submission to the Louisiana OMV. The seller and buyer do not necessarily need to be physically present together at the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) when submitting the documents. Each party can visit separately or at different times.
Title Transfer. The OMV processes the title transfer based on the signed and notarized documents provided by both the seller and the buyer.
While both parties do not need to be present simultaneously, it's crucial to ensure that all required documents, including the signed and notarized title, Bill of Sale, and Vehicle Application, are submitted correctly to the OMV for the title transfer to be completed accurately. Additionally, the buyer should be prepared to pay any applicable fees associated with the title transfer.