Salvaged Vehicles

This page explains how to get a Maryland Certificate of Title for a vehicle that has a salvage, rebuilt, or similar branded status.

Vehicles with these designations have special requirements. You must complete all steps before the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) can issue a title or registration.

Step 1: Understand Salvage and Rebuilt Vehicles

A vehicle may be considered:

• Salvage: The vehicle was damaged and declared a total loss by an insurance company.
• Rebuilt: A salvage vehicle that has been repaired and inspected so it can be titled and registered.

A salvage vehicle cannot be registered or driven until it has been rebuilt, inspected, and approved.

Step 2: Confirm Who Is Responsible for Titling

• If you purchased the vehicle from a dealer, the dealer may handle the title application.
• If you purchased the vehicle from a private seller, auction, or insurance company, you are responsible for titling the vehicle.

Confirm this before proceeding to avoid duplicate applications.

Step 3: Choose How to Apply for a Title

Option 1: Apply In Person

Visit a full-service MVA branch office.

• Recommended for salvage or rebuilt vehicles
• Staff can review documents for completeness

Call to action:
Schedule a titling appointment at an MVA branch office

Option 2: Apply by Mail

Some applications may be submitted by mail.

• Processing may take longer
• All documents and fees must be included

Call to action:
Download the title application and mailing instructions

Step 4: Gather the Required Documents

You must submit:

• A completed Application for Certificate of Title
• Proof of ownership (salvage title or equivalent)
• Bills of sale or receipts for major repairs and parts
• Valid identification
• Payment for all required fees and taxes

Do not alter official documents. Missing or incorrect information may delay approval.

Step 5: Complete the Required Inspection

Before a rebuilt title can be issued, the vehicle must pass a Maryland Salvage Inspection.

• This inspection confirms the vehicle was rebuilt properly
• It verifies that no stolen parts were used

Salvage inspections are separate from standard safety inspections.

Titling and Registering the Vehicle

Once the vehicle is approved:

• You may title and register the vehicle
• Registration requires insurance and may require a safety or emissions inspection

For registration requirements, visit:
Vehicle Registration Information

Fees

Fees may include:

• Title fee
• Salvage inspection fee
• Motor vehicle excise tax
• Registration fees, if applicable

Current fees are listed on MVA service pages.

What Happens After You Apply

After approval:

• Your Maryland Certificate of Title will be mailed to you
• Processing times vary
• You can check your application status online

Call to action:
Check the status of your title application

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive a salvage vehicle?
No. A salvage vehicle cannot be driven until it is rebuilt, inspected, titled, and registered.

Does a rebuilt title remove the salvage history?
No. The vehicle history remains part of the title record.

What if I do not have all repair receipts?
Missing documentation may delay or prevent approval.

Need Help?

If you have questions about salvage or rebuilt vehicle titling, contact the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration.

Call to action:
Contact the MVA for assistance

Ready to Get Started?

If your vehicle has a salvage or rebuilt status, gather your documents and complete the inspection process.

Schedule an appointment, download the application, or check your title status today.