How To Get a Rebuilt Title in Rhode Island
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Rebuilt titles are given to vehicles previously deemed total losses but have undergone extensive repairs to restore them to a safe and legally compliant condition.
While the requirements for obtaining a rebuilt title may differ across states, obtaining a rebuilt title in Rhode Island is generally straightforward.
It involves submitting an application for salvage inspection along with supporting documents, such as receipts for replaced parts and labor, a salvage title, et cetera.
A licensed salvage rebuilder in Rhode Island must also restore and repair the vehicle.
Let’s discuss everything you need to know about how to get a rebuilt title in Rhode Island.
Table of Contents
Implications of a Rebuilt Title
Having a rebuilt title carries specific implications for the vehicle owner. A rebuilt vehicle's value may be lower than a similar vehicle with a clean title, as potential buyers may perceive it as having a history of significant damage.
The rebuilt title will be branded as "Reconstructed/Rebuilt," which can impact future resale value.
Considering these implications is crucial when purchasing, selling, or trading a vehicle with a rebuilt title.
How To Get a Rebuilt Title in Rhode Island
Like in most states, getting a rebuilt (reconstructed) title in Rhode Island involves several significant processes.
They include getting a salvage title, providing proof of repairs, submitting the necessary paperwork, passing a salvage inspection, and ensuring that the vehicle meets all safety and roadworthy standards.
If you want to get a rebuilt title in Rhode Island, here is what you must do:
1. Get a Salvage Title.
A salvage title is a certificate given to a vehicle severely damaged due to an accident, flood, fire, or other significant event.
When a vehicle is deemed a total loss by an insurance company, meaning the cost to repair it is more than its value, the title is changed to salvage.
Salvage titles are also issued to inform potential buyers and future owners about the vehicle's history and condition.
To apply for a Rhode Island Salvage Title, the owner of the vehicle must submit the following documents and fee:
- Completed salvage application by the owner listed on the existing Rhode Island title.
- Existing Rhode Island title in the owner's name.
- A letter from the insurance company confirming the vehicle as a total loss, with the owner retaining the vehicle. The letter should also indicate either Class A (parts only) or Class B (repairable) classification.
- Written estimate or appraisal of the damage provided by the insurance company.
- A $52.50 fee made by check or money order.
2. Repair The Vehicles.
In Rhode Island, you have to get your salvaged vehicle fixed by a licensed rebuilder. You can download the list of licensed rebuilders from the DMV’s website.
Before they start fixing it, take pictures of the vehicle to show how it was damaged. These pictures are essential for the salvage inspection.
After the repairs, you must go to your local police department and get a VIN check. It is to make sure the vehicle's identification number is correct.
The police officer will also give you a VIN Verification form (Form TR-5) after completing the VIN check.
After getting your VIN, the next step is to take the vehicle for a safety inspection.
3. Pass a Rhode Island Salvaged Car Inspection.
A salvage inspection is necessary to ascertain that the vehicle is in good condition for the road. The inspection is also necessary to test for emission and safety checks.
To initiate the Application for Salvage Inspection, please ensure you provide the following required documents:
- Copies of the receipts for replaced parts and labor, with VINs listed on each receipt, to show the origin of the parts used.
- A certified check or money order for $57.50, payable to "DMV."
- A copy of the Salvage Title.
- A Certificate of Salvage Repair.
- The vehicle must be repaired by a licensed salvage rebuilder in Rhode Island; no exceptions.
- A fully completed Salvage Inspection Application.
- Include photos of the vehicle displaying all damages.
- Provide a copy of the insurance appraisal.
- Include a list of all used parts.
Return the completed application to:
Division of Motor Vehicles, Enforcement Office
600 New London Avenue
Cranston, RI 02920-3024
During the inspection, ensure you have the following documents with you:
- Identification, such as a Rhode Island driver's license or ID card.
- An adequately assigned salvage title.
- The vehicle must be fully restored.
- All vehicles must display a new RI State Inspection sticker.
- Bring all the original paperwork and photos previously submitted as copies of the application.
Please note that you must schedule a new appointment if any requested paperwork is missing during the inspection. Another certified check or money order of $57.50 will also be required.
4. Apply For a Rebuilt Title in Rhode Island.
To get a rebuilt title, complete an "Application for Title" form and submit it to the Rhode Island DMV. You can do this in person by going to the DMV office or sending it by mail.
You will also need to add the following information/documents to the application:
- The "VIN Verification" Form you received when they checked your car's identification number (VIN).
- Proof that your car has passed the salvage inspection.
- Driver's license or ID card.
- Pay the fees for the title and registration.
The cost of getting a rebuilt title in Rhode Island can differ depending on where you live. You can expect to pay approximately $150 to $200 in taxes and fees to obtain your rebuilt title.
Once you've done all this, you'll get your rebuilt title, and then you are ready to drive on the roads of Rhode Island with your vehicle, now legally authorized to do so.
Salvage Inspections
You can have your vehicle inspected at Safety and Emission Testing Stations throughout the state if it weighs 8500 lbs. or less.
Failing Inspections
If the vehicle fails the salvage inspection, it cannot be issued a rebuilt title. In such cases, the vehicle may only be sold to a salvage yard and only by the owner listed on the title at the time of the total loss.
