By John - July 9th, 2012 08:09 AM
Before salvaged vehicles can be legally driven, they need to have their titles “cleaned” or converted. This process varies by state, so check with your DMV before you buy a salvage car or look at damaged vehicles for sale. Basically, though, the procedure is as follows:
- Paperwork is key – Have the documents for your salvage car (VIN, license plate number, current salvage title, weight certificate, registration, smog certificate, etc) and your driver’s license and Social Security numbers on hand. You’ll also need receipts for any repairs carried out; several states will not allow salvaged vehicles to pass inspection without verifying that the repairs were made and that the parts used were not stolen.
- Phone fun – Call your DMV and ask if a salvage certificate inspection is required. If so, make the appointment and then attend the inspection.
- Inspect – Yet more inspections will have to be carried out. Again, the regulations for damaged vehicles vary by state and might include brake and light inspections and weight and smog certifications.
- More paperwork – Fill out and submit an "Application for Change of Title" or similar form from your DMV, as well as any other required forms.
- Money, honey – Pay the fees when you submit your applications and paperwork to the DMV. There are various fees, usually for registration, highway patrol, the county, vehicle weight, duplicate title, etc.
- Victory! – You will eventually receive your new title, often a "Rebuilt Salvage" title.
To streamline the process, always call your DMV and check their website. If their forms are available online, you can save time by downloading and filling these out at home. Whenever possible, make appointments with DMV officials so you can avoid the infamously long lines. And finally, once you have the title, remember to never keep it in your vehicle. Always store a title in a safe place at home.
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