Farm use plates in Louisiana help working farmers save money on vehicle registration — but only if the vehicle is truly used for farm work. This guide explains who qualifies, how to apply, what you can (and can’t) do with a farm plate, and how Title Authority in Covington can make the process simple.
Quick summary: If the truck hauls your own farm products, you likely qualify. If it hauls anyone else’s for pay, you don’t. The rest is paperwork — and we can help with that part.
Who Qualifies for a Farm Use Plate
You must be actively farming — growing crops, raising livestock, producing honey, seafood, or other agricultural products. Louisiana defines farm vehicles as those used primarily to move your own goods to market and bring supplies home. They can’t be used for hire or unrelated businesses. See the OMV’s farm use definition for details.
Qualifying vehicles include pickups, flatbeds, and even vans or SUVs used for farm hauling. Trucks hauling milk for a cooperative can also qualify. If the truck serves more than one type of business, you’ll need a standard Class 1 commercial plate instead.
Need help figuring out if you qualify? Title Authority’s experts can review your situation and make sure you meet the OMV requirements before you waste time in line.
How to Apply for a Farm Use Plate
Applying is similar to regular registration but includes an extra step: a Statement of Farm Use. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Vehicle application (Form DPSMV 1799): Fill out the state form and check “Farm Use Plate.” You’ll need a valid title and proof of insurance (see official form).
- Statement of Farm Use: This affidavit certifies that you’re a bona fide farmer and that the vehicle is used primarily for your farm’s hauling. You can view the affidavit language here.
- Fees: Louisiana offers deeply discounted registration for farm plates — light trucks up to 10,000 lbs pay just $12 for four years. Heavier trucks must be renewed by June 30 each year.
Once approved, you’ll get a farm use plate marked “FARM” and enjoy those lower fees. Keep your affidavit on file — it’s proof of eligibility if you’re ever questioned on the road.
What Farm Plates Allow
A Louisiana farm plate lets you haul what you produce and what you need for your operation:
- Your own products: You can move your crops, livestock, fish, or honey to markets or processors.
- Farm supplies: Hauling seed, feed, fertilizer, or equipment back home is allowed.
- Shared use: You can share the vehicle with other farmers in a cooperative, as long as no one pays for the hauling.
- Incidental personal trips: You’re fine using it occasionally for errands or family trips. The law says “primarily,” not “only.”
What’s Not Allowed
- No for-hire hauling: You can’t use the truck as a paid hauler for anyone else’s goods (farm affidavit).
- No unrelated business use: If the same truck works in another business (like construction or landscaping), it needs a regular plate.
- No plate transfers to non-farmers: If you sell the vehicle, the farm plate doesn’t transfer unless the buyer also qualifies.
Quick takeaway: The farm plate is for running your own farm — not a side hustle or commercial service.
Penalties for Misuse
- Fines: The state can assess a penalty equal to 25% of the correct registration fee and require you to buy the proper plate.
- Plate removal: Officers can seize an improper plate and issue a temporary 5-day tag while you fix it (state regulation).
- False statements: Signing the affidavit under false pretenses is a misdemeanor under R.S. 32:730.
Get Professional Help With Your Louisiana Farm Use Plate
If you want your farm use plate handled the first time correctly, you can skip the guesswork and let a licensed Public Tag Agent handle it for you. You get fast processing, clear guidance, and no wasted trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a specific acreage? No. The law doesn’t set a minimum. You just have to be legitimately farming for business, not as a hobby.
- Can I help a neighbor? Occasionally, without pay — yes. Regularly or for money — no.
- Do I need to renew every year? Light trucks renew every four years; heavier ones renew yearly by June 30.
- Can I drive out of state? Yes, if it’s for farm business. Other states recognize Louisiana farm plates as long as you’re not hauling for hire (reciprocity rule).
- Does it waive insurance or CDL rules? No. You still need insurance, inspections, and proper licensing.
Get Help with Your Farm Use Plate
Louisiana’s farm plate program can save you money — but only if it’s done right. At Title Authority LLC in Covington, we handle the paperwork, verify your eligibility, and ensure your registration complies with OMV rules. Farmers across St. Tammany Parish trust us to get it done quickly and correctly.
Schedule an appointment today and let us take the hassle out of your farm plate application.
