How To Get a Rebuilt Title in Louisiana

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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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Earning a rebuilt title in Louisiana means navigating a process designed to ensure vehicles once considered total losses are now safe and compliant with all legal standards for road use.

This status is crucial for cars that have been extensively damaged, where repair costs soar to 75% or more of the vehicle's overall value, necessitating a salvage title first.

Louisiana's approach to transitioning a vehicle from salvage to rebuilt status is structured yet manageable, requiring owners to undertake specific steps to validate their vehicle's roadworthiness.

This article aims to unravel the steps involved in obtaining a rebuilt title in Louisiana, offering a clear guide to vehicle owners on how to successfully achieve this designation.

Importance of Getting a Rebuilt Title in Louisiana

Obtaining a rebuilt title is vital if you wish to drive the car again or sell it. Although buying and selling cars with salvage titles is possible.

But, experts generally advise that unless you possess the proper knowledge and expertise in the salvage industry, it is best to avoid the complexities of purchasing a salvaged vehicle.

While a rebuilt title does not have the power to reset a car's history magically, it does indicate that the vehicle has been restored to a safe and drivable condition, with the assurance of a state-licensed inspector having thoroughly assessed its roadworthiness.

How To Get a Rebuilt Title in Louisiana

A rebuilt title certifies that the vehicle is safe and roadworthy after necessary repairs. To get a rebuilt title in Louisiana, you must submit adequate documentation of the repairs, complete inspections, and, most importantly, get a salvage title.

Here is a step-by-step process on what to do:

Step 1: Get a Salvage Title in Louisiana

Obtaining a salvage title in Louisiana entails several steps and fulfilling specific requirements.

Additionally, vehicle owners may need to compile a list of necessary documents to facilitate the process.

To acquire a salvage certificate, applicants must adhere to the following guidelines:

1. Complete the vehicle application form (DPSMV 1799).
2. Provide a properly assigned title or manufacturer's statement of origin (MSO).
3. Submit a copy of the insurance company's proof of loss indicating the incident's date.
4. If applicable, add a UCC-1 security agreement to record any liens.
5. Include a notarized authorization from the insurance company.
6. Fill out the Application for a Salvage-Reconstructed Motor Vehicle.

• • This form requires vehicle owners to provide information about the owner, vehicle details, and disclosure of salvage, reconstruction, water damage, or hail damage.

In cases where the insurance company or agent cannot obtain the title certificate from the owner or lienholder within 30 days of settlement, the salvage title application can be submitted to the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) along with additional documentation.

In such situations, the following documents must be provided:

1. Completed vehicle application form (DPSMV 1799).
2. Notarized affidavit demonstrating that the insurance company has made two written attempts to acquire the title from the owner or lienholder.
3. Copies of the notices sent to the lienholder.
4. If required, a Federal Odometer statement.
5. Copy of the proof of loss from the insurance company.
6. Lien release, if necessary.
7. Payment of the relevant fees.

Moreover, when transferring ownership of a salvage title vehicle, including a disclosure statement for the recipient is essential.

Failure to comply with this requirement may empower the vehicle recipient to request rescission of the sale and seek reimbursement for the price, fees, and taxes associated with the transaction.

Salvage Title Eligibility Requirements in Louisiana

Vehicle owners in Louisiana can seek a salvage title from the state's DMV by completing the necessary procedures and meeting specific eligibility requirements in advance.

A salvage certificate can be issued to an auto insurance company, its authorized agent, or the vehicle owner.

Any of these individuals have the authority to sell, rebuild, restore, or dismantle the salvage vehicle.

To be eligible for obtaining such a title for a motor vehicle that has been deemed a total loss, whether it be the insurance company, agent, or vehicle owner, they must initiate the application process within 30 days of settling the property damage claim.

Step 2: Car Inspections

You must submit an Affidavit of Physical Inspection to get a rebuilt title in Louisiana.

To fulfill this requirement, your vehicle must undergo inspection by a certified full-time law enforcement officer authorized by the Louisiana State Police (LSP) to conduct motor vehicle inspections.

To arrange an inspection appointment, kindly contact the LSP troop nearest your vicinity.

During the inspection, the officer will perform the following tasks:

1. Verify the accuracy of your vehicle's identification number (VIN).
2. Conduct a potential examination of the VIN information about the significant parts employed in the reconstruction of the vehicle.

• • This is a random procedure designed to validate the accuracy of the details provided in your application.

It is essential to note that this inspection primarily focuses on verifying significant components and is distinct from a safety inspection.

The OMV will guide whether your reconstructed vehicle necessitates an additional safety inspection.

Once your vehicle passes the inspection, the certifying officer will furnish you with a completed Affidavit of Physical Inspection.

Submit this document and all other mandatory paperwork to the OMV. In due course, you will be issued a new car title designated as "reconstructed."

Step 3: Application and Submission of Documents

Now that you possess a salvaged title, you can apply for a rebuilt title and registration.

After you, or a skilled restorer, have successfully repaired your vehicle to meet the necessary safety and legal standards, you can initiate the application for a reconstructed title.

This entails submitting the following documentation to the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV):

1. Your salvaged title issued in Louisiana.
2. The completion of the following forms:

• • Affidavit of Physical Inspection (as outlined below).
  • Application for a Salvage-Reconstructed Motor Vehicle (Form DPSMV 1634).
  • Vehicle Application (Form DPSMV 1799).

3. The bill of sale for the vehicle, if applicable.
4. A comprehensive inventory of the parts that were reconstructed or replaced. For each major component, you must include the following:

• • Vehicle identification number(s) of the source vehicle(s) from which the part(s) originated.
  • Name and contact details of the seller from whom you procured the parts.
  • Date of purchase for each part.

5. The bills of sale for all the significant parts used in the vehicle's reconstruction. A notarized affidavit must be provided if a bill of sale or receipt is unavailable.

• • These bills of sale must contain the same detailed information provided in the parts mentioned above inventory.

6. Payment of the applicable fees and taxes. It is recommended to contact your local OMV for precise details on the fees, as they may vary.

Mandatory Documents for the Application of a Rebuilt Title

The application for a rebuilt title in Louisiana mandates the submission of several crucial documents. These include the following:

• A completed Application for a Salvage-Reconstructed Motor Vehicle.
• An adequately assigned salvage title or manufacturer's statement of origin.
• A copy of the insurance company's proof of loss containing the date of loss.
• A notarized authorization from the insurance company.
• If applicable, a UCC-1 security agreement may be required for recording liens.

How Long It Takes To Get a Rebuilt Title in Louisiana

The duration of application processing at each stage of this process is contingent upon various factors.

The Louisiana OMV does not furnish explicit guidelines about the anticipated waiting period.

Akin to any significant undertaking involving legal matters, the level of organization and preparedness exhibited by the applicant is typically inversely proportional to the time required for processing.

In essence, the more meticulous and well-prepared the applicant is, the shorter the expected processing time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Physical Inspection of the Rebuilt Vehicle Necessary for Obtaining a Rebuilt Title in Louisiana?

Absolutely. A physical inspection is an obligatory step in acquiring a rebuilt title in Louisiana. The inspection is conducted by a certified full-time law enforcement officer authorized by the Louisiana State Police. These meticulous inspections ensure compliance with safety and drivability standards.

How much is it to get a rebuilt title in Louisiana?

The cost of obtaining a rebuilt title in Louisiana can vary based on the specific parish or municipality and the existing titles for the vehicle. Typically, the cost ranges from $81.50 to $106.

Can I Get Insurance for a Rebuilt Vehicle in Louisiana?

Yes, but insuring a car with a salvaged title can result in higher insurance premiums. This is primarily due to the perception held by certain insurance companies that rebuilt vehicles carry a higher risk of mechanical issues and involvement in accidents.

Is having a rebuilt title a negative thing?

Not necessarily. A rebuilt title indicates that the car is deemed safe and roadworthy. However, it's important to note that a rebuilt car may have more mechanical issues than newer vehicles.