How to Get a Rebuilt Title in Iowa

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Chris Cho

Chris Cho

Chris is Head of Content for FindTheBestCarPrice and is based out of Philadelphia, PA. As a seasoned automotive industry analyst and car enthusiast, he ensures the highest level of quality across all our content and curates our picks for the best deals each month.
Chris studied information systems and marketing at Drexel University and writes about a wide range of topics ranging from car buying tips to troubleshooting common mechanical issues.

When he’s not thinking about cars, he likes to stay in with his dog and make an “attempt” to finish a crossword puzzle (he’s not quite at the Saturday/Sunday level…yet). As a former cheesemonger, Chris still has a “sharp” passion for all things cheese, and his fridge is always loaded with it!

Chris also has a passion for things that go fast, and drones are no exception. He spends some of his time writing for Dronesourced.

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For many people, a severely damaged car can no longer be driven. It has been damaged too much, and the insurance company considers it not worth fixing, so they scrap it.

But when the car is fixed to the best working condition, it can qualify for a rebuilt title. A rebuilt title is a legal document that shows a car was once considered damaged but has been repaired to a good condition.

To get a rebuilt title in Iowa, a salvage title car must be fixed and inspected for stolen parts.

If you want to learn more about how to get a rebuilt title in Iowa, this is the perfect article for you.

Let’s get started!

Importance of Getting a Rebuilt Title in Iowa

A rebuilt title is compulsory if you possess a vehicle deemed a total loss but aspire to restore its roadworthiness.

Having a rebuilt title gives the vehicle the following advantage:

1. It allows you to insure and register the vehicle legally.
2. It ensures the vehicle has been repaired and is safe to drive.
3. It increases the number of potential buyers for the vehicle.
4. A rebuilt title can improve the vehicle's resale value.
5. It assures the vehicle's safety and reliability.

How to Get a Rebuilt Title in Iowa

To get a rebuilt title in Iowa, you must repair the car, complete paperwork, and undergo official inspections.

Here is a breakdown of how to get an Iowa rebuilt title for your vehicle:

1. Get a Salvage Title in Iowa.

To get a salvage title in Iowa, your vehicle needs to meet specific requirements to be considered a salvage vehicle.

Vehicles that need repairs costing more than 50% of their original value (excluding any previous damages) can be classified as salvage vehicles.

The vehicle must also have had a fair market value of at least $499 before the damages occurred.

Insurance companies can also get salvage certificates for damaged or stolen vehicles if they declare them as total losses and settle a claim.

However, regardless of the situation, a salvage title is only given if the vehicle can be repaired. If it can't be repaired, it will be classified as junk.

Here's how to get a salvage title in Iowa:

1. Go to the county treasurer's office in your county of residence to submit a formal request for a salvage title.

The application process may differ depending on whether you're the original vehicle owner or an authorized representative of your insurance company.

2. Apply within 15 days of transferring the title to the new owner. Follow these steps at the county treasurer's office:

• • Fill out the Application for Certificate of Title and Registration form.
  • Check the box indicating that you want a salvage title.
  • Provide the existing title certificate for the vehicle.
  • Pay any required titling fees.

2. Repair the Car.

After obtaining a salvage title, you should fix any damages on your vehicle. In Iowa, there are rules about who can do these repairs.

Usually, only licensed recyclers can perform the repairs for a rebuilt title. But if you can show that you fix vehicles as a hobby and not for money, you may be exempt from this rule.

Also, record the repair process, including receipts of all parts used ad pictures of before and after the repairs.

3. Undergo a Salvage Vehicle Inspection.

To get a rebuilt title in Iowa, you must have your vehicle inspected by a peace officer certified by the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy.

This inspection ensures that the vehicle was not built using stolen parts and meets the safety standards set by the state.

For the inspection, you must complete an online form called the Affidavit of Salvage Vehicle Repairs.

This form asks for information about yourself, the vehicle's salvage title, vehicle identification number (VIN), and details about its damage.

Once you complete the affidavit, you will receive an inspection appointment and a permit to drive the vehicle to and from the inspection location on the scheduled day.

You will need to provide the following for the inspection:

• Documents of your repairs, including receipts, invoices, and other relevant paperwork for the parts used.
• All the receipts and documents for the inspection appointment.
• Pay the $50 inspection fee and provide payment information.

After the inspection, you will be given a Salvage Theft Examination Certificate Form. This certificate is necessary when applying for a rebuilt title and registration in Iowa.

4. Apply for a Rebuilt Title in Iowa.

Once you have a salvaged title for your vehicle in Iowa and it has passed inspection, the next step is to turn it into a rebuilt title.

You will need to do the following:

1. Gather all the necessary documents: Your salvaged title, proof of a salvage inspection (Salvage Theft Examination Certificate), and an insurance certification from your insurance provider.
2. Fill out the insurance certification: The certification should include the name and address of your insurance provider, details about your vehicle (make, year, and VIN), and a statement confirming that the repair costs were below $3,000.
3. Submit the documents: Take all the required documents, applications, and fees to your county treasurer's office.

The county treasurer will review your application and let you know if it is approved. They will also give you an estimated timeframe for when your rebuilt title will be issued.

Requirements for Repairs on Vehicles Before Obtaining a Rebuilt Title

Yes, there are specific requirements for repairs conducted on a vehicle seeking a rebuilt title in Iowa.

The repairs must be comprehensive, ensuring the vehicle is restored to an acceptable condition.

Additionally, it is crucial to maintain detailed records of the repairs, including receipts for parts and labor, as they will be necessary to support the application for a rebuilt title.

Driving a Vehicle With a Salvage Title in Iowa

It is essential to note that driving a vehicle with a salvage title on public roads in Iowa is generally prohibited.

But a special permit can be obtained only to drive the vehicle to the inspection center without stopping elsewhere.

Obtaining Insurance for a Vehicle With a Rebuilt Title in Iowa

You can obtain insurance for a car with a salvage title in Iowa after the car has been repaired, inspected, and issued a rebuilt title.

You can typically obtain liability insurance once the vehicle has a rebuilt title. However, it's important to note that some insurance companies may hesitate to provide full coverage for a vehicle with a rebuilt title.

How To Change the Title of a Vehicle in Iowa

To change the title of a vehicle in Iowa, you need to follow these steps:

• Submit a bill of sale that is signed by the person transferring it.
• Present the assigned title: The buyer/transferee has 30 days to present the adequately assigned title to the County Treasurer's office to issue a title in the buyer/transferee's name. Penalties may apply if this is not done within 30 days.

Types of Titles After Passing the Inspection in Iowa

No, your vehicle will not have a clean title after passing the inspection. Instead, it will have a "Rebuilt" brand.

The rebuilt title allows the vehicle to be registered and used on the road, but it will always have the "rebuilt" brand attached to it, acknowledging its history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone buy or sell a salvage-titled vehicle to another person in Iowa?

Only authorized recyclers or new motor vehicle dealers can buy or sell salvage-titled vehicles.

Can I complete the Salvage Vehicle Repairs Form on my cell phone?

You cannot complete the Salvage Vehicle Repairs form on your cell phone. You must use a desktop computer, laptop, or tablet to access and fill out the form.

Before the inspection, do I need to transfer an out-of-state title to an Iowa salvage title?

No, an out-of-state title is acceptable if repairs and inspection are completed within 30 days of purchase.

Do I need receipts for all parts and repairs listed on the Salvage Vehicle Repairs Form?

You need receipts for parts purchased by you. If someone else purchased the parts, try to get copies and inform the officer during the inspection.

How long does it take to get a rebuilt title in Iowa?

The time it takes to obtain a rebuilt title in Iowa can vary. It depends on the duration of the repairs made to the vehicle and the processing time for the title applications.

How much will I use to get a rebuilt title in Iowa?

In Iowa, obtaining a rebuilt title costs $50. This fee is used to cover the expense of the salvage theft exam.