How to Change a Salvage Title

"Cleaning" a car's salvage title is an important part of making the auto legally roadworthy.

Cars receive a salvage title from the local Department of Motor Vehicles when they have so much damage that the cost of repair outweighs the value of the vehicle. Salvage titles alert new buyers of serious damage in a car's history, but some auto owners may need to change a salvage title to a "clean" title after restoration. The process of changing a salvage title varies by state, so check in with your local DMV before taking action.

Things You'll Need

• Salvage title
• Weight certificate
• Smog certificate (in some cases)
• Driver's license
• Registration
• VIN number
• License plate number
• Telephone
• Car with salvage title
• Money for DMV fees
• Car repair and maintenance receipts

Instructions

1. Collect useful information on the vehicle, such as the car's VIN number and license plate number.Compile necessary paperwork such as the car's current salvage title, weight certificate, registration and smog certificate (if necessary in your state). Have your driver's license number and your Social Security number on hand.

2. Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles by phone. Local DMV phone numbers are listed in the phone book and on each individual DMV's official website. Find out if your local DMV requires a salvage certificate inspection. If so, make an appointment.

3. Attend the salvage certificate inspection on the date and time settled on by you and your local DMV.

4. Undergo any additional required inspections. These vary per state and may include brake and light inspections, weight certification and smog certification.

5. Fill out and turn in an "Application for Change of Title" or similar form offered by your DMV using your collection of vehicle and personal identification information.

6. Fill out and turn in any additional paperwork required by your local DMV.

7. Pay any fees associated with the cost of changing your car's title when you turn in your applications and paperwork at the DMV. Fees may include registration fee, highway patrol fee, county fees, weight fees, duplicate title fees and more. Most DMV offices accept cash, checks and debit or credit cards.

8. Receive your new car title, in most cases a "Rebuilt Salvage" title.

Tips & Warnings

• If possible, download an "Application for Title or Registration" from you DMV's website and fill it out beforehand to save time.

• Always make an appointment with the DMV if possible, to avoid the long lines.

• Never keep your title in the car. Always store it in a safe place in your home.

• Always get a full automotive history report before purchasing a car with a salvage title. Cars with these titles may have significant hidden mechanical issues that will show up over time.

References

• New York State Department of Motor Vehicles: Information About the Salvage Vehicle Examination Program
• AutoCheck: Title Brands: Salvage
• Car Insurance Rates: What is a "Salvage Title?"
• California Department of Motor Vehicles: How To Reregister a Salvaged Vehicle

Resources

• DMV.org: Salvage Title