How To Get a Rebuilt Title in Nebraska
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A rebuilt title means that a previously totaled car has been sufficiently repaired and is now suitable for road use.
In Nebraska, the rebuilt title is also called the previously salvaged title. Acquiring a rebuilt title before operating the vehicle on public roads is essential.
To get a rebuilt title in Nebraska, first you must possess a salvage title if the vehicle doesn't have one already. Then, the vehicle must undergo repairs to meet the state's vehicle inspection requirements.
The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles handles processing applications for rebuilt titles.
Let’s discuss everything you need to know about how to get a rebuilt title in Nebraska.
Table of Contents
Rebuilt Title vs. Salvage Title
A rebuilt title is a legal document that signifies a once-totaled vehicle has been thoroughly repaired and restored to a roadworthy condition.
It indicates that the vehicle has undergone the necessary repairs and inspections after being declared a salvage vehicle.
In contrast, a salvage title is issued when a vehicle has significant damage and is written off as a total loss by an insurance company.
How To Get a Rebuilt Title in Nebraska
A vehicle that has experienced significant damage, destruction, or wreckage to the extent that the estimated cost required to repair the vehicle exceeds 75% of its retail value at the time of the incident can get a new lease on life when it gets a "rebuilt title."
To get a rebuilt title in Nebraska, you should:
1. Get a Salvage Title in Nebraska
If you choose to retain your vehicle, despite it being declared a total loss and desire to obtain a salvage title in Nebraska, you need to bear in mind the following details:
- Prompt Notification: It is crucial for your insurance provider to promptly notify the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles about the situation.
- Salvage Branding: The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles will update the vehicle's title records by adding the salvage brand designation.
- Time Limit: Your insurance provider will inform you that you have a 30-day timeframe to apply for a salvaged title, starting from the acceptance of the settlement.
- Application Submission: To initiate the application process for a Nebraska salvage title, you need to submit the following documents to the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles office:
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- Completed Application for Certificate of Title, with the "Salvage" box appropriately marked.
- The original title of the vehicle.
- Any relevant documents proving the satisfaction of liens, if applicable.
- Payment of the $10 salvage title fee.
- Different Salvaged Title Types: It is worth noting that apart from cars, salvage titles can also be pursued for the following vehicle types:
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- All-terrain vehicles (ATVs).
- Utility vehicles (UTVs).
- Minibikes.
- Motorboats.
However, it is essential to recognize that the vehicle application procedures mentioned earlier differ from those involved in obtaining a salvage title for an automobile.
2. Get Your Car Inspected
Before getting a rebuilt title in Nebraska, you must undertake repairs on your salvage car per the state's legal and safety standards.
Upon completing the necessary repairs, the next step entails subjecting your vehicle to an inspection conducted at your county sheriff's office.
For detailed information regarding inspection locations and operational hours, it is advisable to contact your county treasurer.
During the salvage inspection, the inspector will perform the following tasks:
- Verification of Vehicle Details: The inspector will ensure that the vehicle identification number corresponds accurately with the VIN stated on the car title.
- Odometer Examination: The inspector will examine the reading to verify its accuracy.
- Scrutiny of Component Parts: As part of the inspection, there may be a potential examination of bills of sale, receipts, et cetera. This scrutiny aims to ascertain that the parts were not acquired through unlawful means, such as theft.
When the scheduled inspection date arrives, you must ensure that you have the following items:
- Salvage Title: Carry the salvage title of your car as evidence of ownership.
- Liens on the Vehicle: If there is a lien on the automobile, you must contact your county treasurer's office. A representative from the office can facilitate the acquisition of a copy of the title from the lienholder or leasing company.
- Documentation of Component Parts: Gather the bills of sale, receipts, and invoices about the major parts used in the reconstruction process.
- Inspection Fee: Prepare the $10 inspection fee for submission.
After your vehicle successfully passes the inspection, the inspector will complete and sign a vehicle inspection form.
It is crucial to collect this form as it remains valid for 90 days following the inspection and will be part of the documents to apply for a rebuilt title.
3. Applying and Submitting the Documents
Once your reconstructed vehicle is inspected, it is time to apply for your esteemed "Previously Salvaged" title.
To process the application, make your way to the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles office and ensure that you come prepared with the following documents and information:
- Salvage Certificate of Title: Present the salvage certificate of title for your vehicle, as it serves as a vital document in the application procedure.
- Completed Application for Certificate of Title: Ensure this application form is meticulously completed, with the essential "Previously Salvaged" box appropriately marked to indicate your desired title designation.
- Vehicle Inspection Form: Remember to bring along the vehicle inspection form, which was bestowed upon you after your vehicle's triumphant completion of the salvage inspection.
- Payment for Applicable Fees:
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- Fee for the "Previously Salvaged" title: $10.
- Lien recording fee (if applicable): $7.
Once all the requisite documents and payments have been approved, you will be issued a "Previously Salvaged" title.
With this title, you can register your car with the DMV and confidently resume your journeys on the open road.
Getting Insurance for Cars With Rebuilt Titles in Nebraska
Insurance companies exhibit significant caution when extending coverage for previously salvaged cars.
These vehicles cannot provide an assurance of being structurally sound, which makes insurers apprehensive.
Suppose you are determined to obtain coverage to protect your investment in your salvage car in Nebraska.
In that case, we recommend taking one or more of the following measures to bolster your case with insurers:
- Obtain an independent appraisal of the vehicle from a neutral third party. Present this appraisal to the insurance company as evidence of the car's insurability and to facilitate negotiations regarding the appropriate coverage and associated premiums.
- Provide before and after pictures of the automobile to the insurance company. Demonstrating the value you have added through repairs and showcasing its excellent condition can help strengthen your argument for coverage.
- Inquire whether your current insurance company can bundle coverage for your salvage car with your existing policies. While they may be hesitant to cover a new customer with a salvage car, they may be more inclined to retain you as a customer if you already hold policies with them.
- Consider accepting a liability coverage policy for the initial six months, with the understanding that you intend to negotiate for expanded coverage during the policy renewal. This approach allows you to establish an initial period of coverage while leaving room for discussions regarding enhanced protection in the future.
Insurance Considerations for a Vehicle With a Rebuilt Title
Insuring a vehicle with a rebuilt title may pose challenges, as insurance companies often have reservations about providing comprehensive coverage for such vehicles.
While liability coverage is generally available, securing full coverage may require additional effort.
It is advisable to contact insurance providers and discuss your specific circumstances to explore available options and find suitable coverage for your rebuilt vehicle.
