Chapter 10: Your Vehicle

Maintaining a legally compliant and mechanically sound vehicle is a fundamental responsibility of every driver. The state requires your vehicle to be properly titled, registered, insured, and inspected to ensure it is safe for public roadways. Understanding these requirements is essential for avoiding fines and legal trouble, and it is a key part of the knowledge needed to pass your driver’s license exam and operate a vehicle responsibly.

Title, Registration, and Insurance

Proper documentation is the first step to legally operating a vehicle in Louisiana. The title, registration, and proof of insurance are distinct but equally important documents.

• Vehicle Title: A Certificate of Title is a legal document that proves ownership of a vehicle. You must apply for a title in your name within five days of purchasing a used vehicle. The title is transferred from the seller to the buyer and is necessary to sell the vehicle or use it as collateral for a loan. It is not required to be kept in the vehicle.
• Vehicle Registration: A registration certificate and license plates give you the legal authority to operate your vehicle on public roads. The registration must be renewed periodically, and the registration certificate must be kept in the vehicle at all times. You must present it to a law enforcement officer upon request.
• License Plates: A license plate must be displayed on the rear of the vehicle and be clearly visible. It must be kept clean and have an up-to-date decal showing the registration is current.

Minimum Liability Insurance

Louisiana law requires all vehicle owners to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance to cover costs in the event of a crash where they are at fault. Driving without insurance is illegal and carries severe penalties.

• Bodily Injury Liability: $15,000 for the injury or death of one person.
• Bodily Injury Liability: $30,000 for the total injury or death of two or more people in a single crash.
• Property Damage Liability: $25,000 for damage to the property of others in a single crash.
• Penalties for No Insurance: If you are stopped and cannot provide proof of insurance, you face fines, the seizure of your license plate, and possible impoundment of your vehicle. You will also face significant fees to have your driving and registration privileges reinstated.

Pro-Tip:
Louisiana accepts digital proof of insurance through the official LA Wallet app. Storing your insurance card in the app is a convenient way to ensure you always have proof with you, as long as your phone is charged and accessible.