How To Get a Rebuilt Title in Maryland
August 30, 2023
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In Maryland, a rebuilt title marks the transformation of a vehicle from salvage status—indicating it was once considered too costly to repair—to a condition deemed safe for the road.
This shift requires the vehicle to first be labeled as salvage, usually due to damage that renders repair costs higher than the vehicle's market value.
The journey towards obtaining a rebuilt title involves a critical salvage inspection by the Maryland State Police (MSP).
Following a successful inspection, the next step is to apply for a rebuilt title through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Department.
This guide is designed to walk you through the necessary steps to achieve a rebuilt title in Maryland, ensuring your vehicle is legally and safely back on the road.
Table of Contents
How To Get a Rebuilt Title in Maryland
To obtain a rebuilt title in Maryland, you must ensure the vehicle meets the criteria for a rebuilt title, meaning it was previously declared salvage due to severe damage.
Here is a breakdown of the process and documents you need to get a rebuilt title in Maryland:
Step 1: Get a Salvage Certificate
To get a rebuilt title in Maryland, your vehicle must have a salvage title. A salvage title is an official document issued to vehicle owners to establish their rights.
Although this salvage certificate serves as proof of ownership, it does not grant permission for individuals to operate their vehicles on public roads.
Depending on your specific situation will need the following documents to get a salvage title:
- Application for a Salvage Certificate (form VR-028).
- Insurance Affidavit
- Proofs of ownership
- Auctioneer’s Sales Receipt (for Police Sales of Abandoned Vehicles)
- Proof of identity
- Certificate of Authority (form CS-078).
- Provide proof of lien release
- Safety inspection within 90 days of the MVA notice.
Step 2: Vehicle Inspection
The next thing to do to get a rebuilt title in Maryland is to schedule a vehicle inspection by Maryland State Police (MSP).
The inspector will thoroughly examine to verify that the vehicle and its components are not stolen and that the serial numbers have not been unlawfully altered.
You can schedule an appointment online, where you will also be required to submit a payment of $25 as the inspection fee.
Before attending your scheduled inspection appointment, ensure that you possess the following:
- Confirmation of the appointment can be printed after scheduling the inspection online.
- Valid personal identification, such as your Maryland driver's license.
- The vehicle's branded title.
- Proof of ownership for all parts utilized in the vehicle's repair, such as bills of sale, receipts, and other relevant documentation.
Once the salvage inspection is completed, the inspector will affix an approval stamp on your title.
You can apply for a temporary title and registration from the MVA. This temporary documentation is valid for 30 days, granting you legal permission to operate and transport the vehicle to the safety inspection location.
However, suppose the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) displayed on the dashboard has been damaged or removed. In that case, an MSP's Auto Theft Unit representative must inspect your vehicle at the Glen Burnie inspection center.
Step 3: Submit the Necessary Documents
After a successful inspection, you must submit the following documents:
- The salvage title Certificate
- Valid proof of adequate auto insurance coverage
- Verification demonstrating that your vehicle has passed the salvage inspection.
- Proof of safety inspection (if applicable).
- Evidence of the purchase price, such as the bill of sale, if you are the vehicle's purchaser.
- A copy of your state-issued ID card.
- An odometer disclosure statement, where you can record the mileage on the completed salvage title or the bill of sale.
- Information regarding any liens on the vehicle, if applicable
- A power of attorney if the vehicle's owner is not signing the vehicle title.
- Payment to cover the relevant fees and taxes associated with the title and registration.
Submit all the documents listed above in person at your local full-service branch office or by mail to the following address:
MVA Salvage Unit RM 104
6601 Ritchie Highway
Glen Burnie, MD 21062
You will receive your new title and registration documents via mail. If you submit your application in person, you will receive your registration card, license plates, and expiration stickers immediately.
What Happens if a Vehicle Fails the Salvage Safety Inspection
If your vehicle FAILS, the inspector will explain the identified issues, which can be addressed through your repairs or by seeking assistance from the inspection station or another authorized automotive facility.
It will be necessary to bring the vehicle back for re-inspection after the repairs. The re-inspection fees will vary depending on the specific inspection station and the components that require further evaluation.
Once your vehicle successfully passes Maryland's safety inspection, you can proceed with the application for the final title and registration process.
How Can I Obtain a Clean Title in Maryland?
To request a clear title, you can visit any of the MVA's full-service branch offices in person or send your application by mail to the MVA's title file unit.
Along with the application, you need to submit the Maryland Notice of Security Interest Filing (SIF), the lien release letter you received, and the current title for your vehicle.
But, if you don't have your Maryland title, you can complete the Application for Duplicate Title (VR-018) and submit it along with the lien release and the necessary fee for the duplicate title to obtain a clear title.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fee for obtaining a rebuilt title in Maryland?
The fee for obtaining a rebuilt title in Maryland is $20. This fee must be paid at the time of submitting the required documentation.
Are additional fees or taxes associated with obtaining a rebuilt title in Maryland?
Depending on specific circumstances, additional fees or taxes may be associated with obtaining a rebuilt title in Maryland. It would help if you inquired about these fees and taxes specific to your situation before commencing the application process.
Where do I submit the required documents for a rebuilt title in Maryland?
You must submit all the necessary documents for a rebuilt title application in person at your local full-service branch office of the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA).
How long does it take to receive a rebuilt title in Maryland?
The processing time for a rebuilt title in Maryland can take several weeks or months. It depends on how quickly you get the car inspected with the MSP.
Can I insure a salvage title in Maryland?
No, it is impossible to insure a car with a salvage title in Maryland. Salvage vehicles are considered total losses and are not eligible for insurance coverage from legitimate insurance companies.
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