Southeast · Last reviewed 2026-07
Louisiana money transmitter license
Requirements, bond, timeline, and crypto notes for the Money Transmitter License (fiat); separate Virtual Currency Business Activity License under the VCBA — for companies preparing an application or diligence questionnaire.
Key requirements
- License
- Money Transmitter License (fiat); separate Virtual Currency Business Activity License under the VCBA
- Statute
- La. R.S. 6:1031 et seq. (money transmission); Louisiana Virtual Currency Businesses Act, La. R.S. 6:1381 et seq.
- Surety bond
- Fiat MTL bonds typically $25,000–$500,000; VCBA security requirements set by OFI based on risk
- Net worth
- Tiered to activity and volume; the VCBA gives OFI discretion to set capital based on risk — verify both regimes
- NMLS
- Required
- Application fee
- VCBA application around $2,000 plus NMLS fees as of our last review; fiat MTL fees separate
- Typical timeline
- 5–10 months
Crypto & virtual currency
Louisiana runs a dual regime: the traditional fiat money transmitter license plus a standalone Virtual Currency Businesses Act (La. R.S. 6:1381 et seq., effective 2020, licensing operational since 2022) requiring a license or registration to engage in virtual currency business activity with Louisiana residents — exchange, transfer, and custody. The VCBA borrows heavily from the Uniform Law Commission's model act, including a small-volume registration tier and exemptions (e.g., for certain non-custodial activity). If you run a custodial exchange with fiat on-ramps serving Louisiana, plan for both licenses. OFI has discretion over capital and security requirements under the VCBA. Requirements change frequently — always verify current figures and interpretations directly with the state regulator before filing.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Louisiana Virtual Currency Businesses Act?
A standalone licensing statute (La. R.S. 6:1381 et seq., based on the ULC model act) requiring a license for virtual currency business activity — exchanging, transferring, or holding crypto for Louisiana residents. It operates separately from the fiat money transmitter license, with its own application, fees, and a registration tier for small-volume operators.
Do I need both Louisiana licenses?
If you custody or exchange crypto AND move customer fiat, likely yes — the VCBA license for the crypto activity and the money transmitter license for fiat flows. Crypto-only custodial models may need only the VCBA license. Map each product line against both statutes.
Are there exemptions under the VCBA?
Yes — including for low-volume activity (registration instead of licensure below statutory thresholds), certain non-custodial software providers, and entities already chartered as banks or trust companies. The exemptions are specific; confirm yours in writing with OFI.
This page is educational and does not constitute legal advice. Requirements change frequently — always verify current figures and interpretations directly with Louisiana Office of Financial Institutions (OFI) before filing.