Transferring Your Out-of-State Driver’s License to Louisiana

December 24, 2025
4 Min Read

If you have recently moved to Louisiana, you are likely discovering that the state does things a bit differently—from the parishes instead of counties to the unique rules at the Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV). One of your most urgent tasks is swapping your old license for a Louisiana one.

Louisiana law requires new residents to transfer their driver’s license within 30 days of establishing residency. While the process is relatively straightforward if your current license is valid, waiting too long or showing up without the right documents can lead to multiple trips and potential fines.

The Two-Step Process: License First, Then Vehicle Registration

In Louisiana, your residency is officially “established” the day you receive your Louisiana driver’s license. This triggers a separate 30-day clock for your vehicle.

Step 1: Getting Your Louisiana Driver’s License and Appointment Tips

Visit a local OMV office. Because wait times can be unpredictable, it is wise to book a DMV Louisiana appointment to secure a time slot.

Step 2: Transferring Your Out-of-State Vehicle Title and Registration

Once you have your new ID, you must apply for a Louisiana title and registration. You will need your out-of-state title, proof of Louisiana insurance, and a physical VIN inspection (often performed at the OMV or by a local police officer).

What it costs: A standard Class E license transfer costs $32.25, plus local parish fees (usually an additional $4–$6). If you visit a Public Tag Agent instead of a state office, expect an additional convenience fee of around $23.

Documents Required for Your Louisiana License Transfer

Louisiana is a Real ID compliant state. Since the federal enforcement date of May 7, 2025, has passed, most new residents choose to get a Real ID-compliant license to ensure they can still board domestic flights. To do this, you must bring original documents; the OMV will not accept photocopies or digital versions on your phone.

  • Your Out-of-State License: It must be in your possession. If you lost it, you must provide an official driving record or a clearance letter from your previous state.
  • Proof of Identity: An original birth certificate (long-form) or a valid U.S. Passport.
  • Social Security Verification: Your Social Security card or a W-2/1099 form showing your full number.
  • Two Proofs of Louisiana Residency: Two different documents showing your name and new physical address (e.g., a utility bill, a rental lease, or a bank statement dated within the last 60 days).
  • Proof of Insurance: You must provide proof of insurance for any vehicle you own, even if that vehicle is still registered in your previous state.

Do New Louisiana Residents Need to Take a Test?

A common worry for new residents is whether they will have to sit through a written or road test again. In 2026, the rules generally favor those with a clean record:

  • Valid License: If your out-of-state license is current and unexpired, you only need to pass a vision screening(20/40 acuity is required). The written and road tests are waived.
  • Expired License: If your license has been expired for more than one year, the OMV typically requires you to pass the written knowledge exam. If it has been expired for more than two years, you will likely have to take the road skills test as well.
  • Minor Drivers: If you are under 17, Louisiana’s Graduated Licensing rules apply. You may need to show proof of driver’s education even if you held a license elsewhere.

Special Cases: Military Personnel and Full-Time Students

Not everyone who lives in Louisiana is required to become a “resident” on paper.

  • Active Military: If you are stationed in Louisiana but maintain your legal residence in another state, you and your dependents are not required to transfer your license or vehicle registration.
  • Full-Time Students: If you are enrolled in a Louisiana college but are technically a resident of another state, you can keep your out-of-state license. However, if you take a job or change your address with the Louisiana DMV for voting purposes, you must complete the transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my out-of-state license as a backup?

No. Louisiana law requires you to surrender your physical out-of-state license when the new one is issued. The OMV will keep it or void it.

What if I have an unpaid ticket in my old state?

Louisiana is part of the Driver License Compact. If you have an active suspension or unpaid fines elsewhere, the OMV system will “flag” your application. You will likely need to reinstate your suspended license in your previous state before Louisiana will issue you a new one.

Is my digital license from my old state valid for the transfer?

No. While Louisiana uses the LA Wallet app for digital IDs, they require your physical plastic license or a certified Louisiana driving record (or the equivalent from your old state) to process a transfer.