Notary Required for Bill of Sale in Lake Charles, LA
Notarization Required — Lake Charles
Louisiana requires notarization of the title assignment for private party vehicle transfers.
Lake Charles Title & DMV Office
This is the official office handling vehicle title transfers in Lake Charles. Notary services may be available here or at a nearby county office.
Office Name
LA OMV – Lake Charles Office
Address
1500 E Prien Lake Rd, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Phone
(337) 491-2700
Hours
Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
Where to Get Notarized in Lake Charles
Because Louisiana requires notarization, you'll need a licensed notary public to witness signatures on your vehicle bill of sale. Here are your options in and around Lake Charles:
🏦 Banks & Credit Unions
Most banks in Lake Charles offer free notary services to account holders. Call ahead to confirm availability — walk-in notary hours vary by branch.
📦 UPS Store / FedEx Office
UPS Store and FedEx Office locations in Lake Charles typically charge $10–$15 per signature. No appointment needed during business hours.
💻 Online Notarization (RON)
Louisiana accepts Remote Online Notarization. Use Proof (formerly Notarize) or DocuSign Notary for a 15-minute session available 24/7 — typically $15–$25.
🏛️ County Clerk / Recorder
The Calcasieu Parish courthouse may offer notary services. Contact (337) 437-3550 for hours and fees.
What to Bring to the Notary
- 1A completed, unsigned bill of sale (sign in front of the notary — not before)
- 2Government-issued photo ID: Louisiana driver's license, passport, or military ID
- 3The vehicle title (if transferring ownership simultaneously)
- 4Payment for the notary fee ($5–$15 at most locations)
- 5Both buyer and seller must be present if both signatures require notarization
Important
Do not sign your bill of sale before the notary appointment. The notary must personally witness your signature to certify it.
Frequently Asked Questions — Notarizing a Bill of Sale in Lake Charles
- Is notarization required for a vehicle bill of sale in Lake Charles, Louisiana?
- Yes. Louisiana requires notarization of the title assignment for private party vehicle transfers.
- What is the title transfer fee in Lake Charles?
- The title transfer fee in Calcasieu Parish is $68.50. The combined sales tax rate is 9.45%. Louisiana state rate 4.45% + Calcasieu Parish 5.0%
- Can I use an online notary for my Lake Charles car bill of sale?
- Yes. Louisiana authorizes Remote Online Notarization (RON). Services like Proof and DocuSign Notary let you notarize documents via video call in about 15 minutes, typically for $15–$25. Available 24/7 — no travel required.
- Where is the DMV office near Lake Charles?
- The LA OMV – Lake Charles Office is located at 1500 E Prien Lake Rd, Lake Charles, LA 70601. Phone: (337) 491-2700. Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.