Can you leave the state on probation in Louisiana?
Probation is often given as an alternative to jail time. Instead of serving your sentence behind bars, you’re released into the community under strict conditions and the supervision of a probation officer.
The exact requirements of your probation depend on your charges and sentence. Some people may be required to:
Attend anger management or substance abuse classes
Complete a GED or high school diploma
Find and keep a job
Submit to random home and personal checks
Essentially, probation means you can live at home—but with rules. The challenge comes when life doesn’t stop for probation. Emergencies, family events, medical appointments, or even something as simple as a long-awaited concert can raise the question:
Can you leave the state while on probation?
The Short Answer: Yes, But With Permission
In Louisiana, probation comes with a duty to regularly check in with either:
The Court (if you’re on inactive, court-monitored probation), or
A probation officer in the parish where your case was prosecuted.
If you want or need to travel outside of your jurisdiction, you cannot simply pack up and go. You must get permission first. That usually means contacting your probation officer, explaining the reason for travel, and receiving their approval.
What If You Move?
If you live in another parish—or plan to move to another state—you’ll need official approval to transfer your probation. This requires:
A request to your probation officer
Permission from the Court
Often, approval through an interstate compact if you’re moving out of Louisiana
Without proper approval, leaving the parish or state could be considered a violation of probation, which might result in serious consequences, including possible jail time.
Why Permission Matters
Each probation case is different. Your probation officer knows the exact conditions of your sentence and will let you know what is allowed. In many cases, probation officers will approve travel if:
You’ve been compliant with all probation requirements
You have a valid reason to leave the state
Your request is made in advance
The more cooperative you are, the more likely your probation officer is to trust you with travel requests.
Bottom Line
Yes, you can sometimes leave the state while on probation, but never without permission. Always check with your probation officer before making travel plans.
In any instance where you are charged with a crime that carries jail time, you should have a lawyer to assist you. Call us today if you have any questions. 504-300-8338, and Remember … When No One’s Carin’ Call McLaren!