Finding a typo on your car title is a stressful discovery, but don’t worry—it’s a common issue with a clear solution. A misspelled name can prevent you from selling, registering, or proving ownership of your vehicle, so it’s important to fix it correctly. This guide will walk you through the exact steps and documents required to correct a misspelled name on your Louisiana vehicle title without the usual government headache.
The key to a successful correction is ensuring your title matches your valid photo ID. The process involves a few key documents, starting with the state’s official Vehicle Application, DPSMV 1799. For name errors made by the purchaser, you’ll also need a notarized Affidavit of Correction.
| Item | What it Does | Source |
|---|---|---|
| DPSMV 1799 | Official title application used for corrections. | Vehicle Application DPSMV 1799 |
| Affidavit of Correction | A sworn statement is required for purchaser name errors and must be notarized. | Affidavit of Correction Policy |
| Public Tag Agent | A state-licensed agent who can process title work for you. | Electronic Lien and Title (ELT) Program |
| OMV Policy 2.03 | The official rule requiring the Vehicle Application form for title work. | Policy 2.03 Vehicle Application |
| Title Status Check | An online tool to verify your title’s status after correction. | OMV Title Inquiry Tool |
What You’ll Need to Bring
Gathering your documents beforehand makes the process much smoother. Here’s your checklist:
- Your Current Louisiana Title: The original document that contains the error.
- Valid Photo ID: Must show the correct spelling of your name (e.g., Driver’s License).
- Proof of Insurance: Your current, valid Louisiana insurance policy is required.
- Completed DPSMV 1799 Form: Filled out with your correctly spelled name and vehicle details.
- Notarized Affidavit of Correction: Only required if the error was made by the purchaser during the sale.
- Lien Release (if applicable): If the vehicle has a loan that has been paid off, you’ll need the lien release from the bank.
- Bill of Sale (optional but helpful): Your original purchase agreement can help support the correction.
Step-by-Step Guide to Correcting Your Title
- Identify the Error: Carefully compare the name on the title to your driver’s license to confirm the exact correction needed.
- Complete Form DPSMV 1799: Download the Vehicle Application (DPSMV 1799) and fill it out completely, making sure to use the correct name spelling.
- Prepare the Affidavit (if needed): If you are the purchaser and your name was misspelled during the sale, you must complete an Affidavit of Correction and have it signed in front of a notary.
- Check Lien Status: If you have a loan, the lienholder information must be correct. If the loan is paid off, the lienholder must release the lien in the state’s Electronic Lien and Title (ELT) system.
- File Your Paperwork: You can either wait in line at a state OMV office or work with a licensed Public Tag Agent like Title Authority. Agents can often process paperwork faster and ensure everything is correct before submission.
- Track Your Title Status: After a few weeks, you can use the OMV’s online Title Verification tool to check if your new, corrected title has been issued.
Fees and Timing
If the misspelling was an error made by an OMV or Public Tag Agent employee, the correction is free. However, if the error originated elsewhere, standard title fees (typically starting at $65) and handling fees will apply. Standard processing for a corrected title in Louisiana usually takes 2-4 weeks. This timeline can be extended by holidays, mail delays, or issues with lienholder paperwork.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Missing Notarization: Forgetting to have the Affidavit of Correction or title assignment notarized when required.
- Mismatched ID: Bringing a photo ID that does not exactly match the corrected name spelling.
- Incomplete Lien Information: Missing lienholder details or failing to get a lien release for a paid-off loan.
- Using Copies: Submitting photocopies instead of the required original documents for title work.
Why Choose Title Authority LLC?
Instead of navigating the complex OMV rules on your own, let us handle it for you. As a licensed Public Tag Agent, our team ensures your paperwork is perfect the first time. We will prepare the DPSMV 1799, draft and notarize the Affidavit of Correction on-site, coordinate with lienholders, and file everything correctly through our official channels. You’ll leave with peace of mind and a clean paper trail.
Visit: 73015 Highway 25, Covington, LA
Call: (985) 807-3855
Ready to fix your title now? Schedule an appointment online or call us today at (985) 807-3855.
