Transferring a car title after the owner dies in Louisiana
For a spouse, child, heir or executor dealing with a car that was owned by someone who died in Louisiana.
To transfer a car title after the owner dies in Louisiana, the papers depend on how the estate was settled. A court succession needs the judgment of possession. A small succession needs the validated affidavit and list of property. If neither works, the heirs fill out an Affidavit of Heirship.
If the estate is going through probate, or family members disagree, talk to the probate court or a lawyer before you sign anything.
Last checked against official Louisiana sources.
Which route applies when a car owner dies in Louisiana?
A court succession
Submit a certified copy of the final judgment of possession that shows who gets the vehicle.
expresslane.la.gov checkedA small succession
If the heirs filed a small succession through the Department of Revenue, submit the validated Affidavit of Small Succession and the list of property.
expresslane.la.gov checkedAn Affidavit of Heirship
If neither of those can be done, the heirs fill out an Affidavit of Heirship.
Affidavit of Heirshipexpresslane.la.gov checkedSigning the title
For titles issued from 1990 on, an heir and the person getting the vehicle sign the assignment, and it is notarized.
expresslane.la.gov checkedCommon questions
Who signs the title?
For newer titles, one of the heirs and the person getting the car sign the assignment, and it is notarized.
expresslane.la.gov checked
When is an Affidavit of Heirship used?
When a succession cannot be opened and a small succession cannot be filed.
expresslane.la.gov checked
Sources for this page
About this page
This page summarizes official Louisiana sources in plain English. Car Title Steps is not a government website, is not connected to the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, and does not file or prepare forms. Confirm each step with the agency before you sign, pay or mail anything. Found a mistake? Email mr@marcelruettgers.com.