How To Get a Rebuilt Title in Virginia
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Salvage vehicles undergoing reconstruction in Virginia must undergo an evaluation before receiving a rebuilt title certificate.
A rebuilt title confirms that a previously deemed total loss vehicle now fulfills all legal and safety prerequisites to be deemed roadworthy.
Operating a salvage title vehicle before it has been adequately repaired is against the law. Once the mandatory car repairs are taken care of, the salvage title can be substituted with a rebuilt title, provided it successfully passes the required examination.
If you're wondering how to get a rebuilt title in Virginia, we’ll cover all you need to know about the entire process.
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How To Get a Rebuilt Title in Virginia
To get a rebuilt title in Virginia, you must submit the documentation, such as the salvage title and application form.
Complete a thorough examination to verify compliance with legal and safety standards. Also, you must pay the applicable fees.
Here is more detailed information on the process:
1. Getting a Salvage Title in Virginia
The process of applying for a DMV salvage title in Virginia may vary depending on whether the salvage designation is initiated by the vehicle's original owner or an insurance company.
If you are seeking a salvage title as the vehicle owner, follow these steps:
- Complete the Salvage Certificate Application (Form VSA 56).
- Obtain a detailed report outlining the extent of the vehicle's damages and the associated repair costs from your insurance company or a certified appraiser.
- Gather your current title certificate.
- Make arrangements for payment of the applicable titling fees.
- Mail all the required documents to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles Branding Work Center.
Upon receiving your salvage title request, the department will thoroughly review your application for completeness before manufacturing and mailing your salvage certificate.
It is important to note that if the damages to your vehicle amount to 90 percent of its actual value, qualifying it for a "nonrepairable" title, you will need to complete the Nonrepairable Certificate Application (Form VSA 57) instead. "Nonrepairable" certificates are issued free of charge.
Virginia Salvage Title Eligibility Requirements
In Virginia, residents can apply for a car salvage certificate if they own a vehicle that meets the state's specific criteria for salvage classification.
To be eligible for a salvage automobile title, the car must fall into one of the following categories:
- It is a relatively new model vehicle acquired by an auto insurance company due to being declared a total loss.
- The car is a recent model that has incurred damages from floods, fires, accidents, or other similar occurrences.
- The motor vehicle was previously stolen but has since been recovered and settled by an auto insurance company.
- Regardless of its year of manufacture, the vehicle is repairable and has been either compensated by an insurer or declared salvage by the owner.
The designation of a salvage vehicle status occurs when the vehicle owner or the insurance company applies a Virginia salvage title.
It's important to note that if an insurer pays for the vehicle damages while the owner retains possession, the insurer must also notify the state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) about this arrangement.
2. Virginia Salvaged Vehicle Inspections
Vehicle inspections are necessary to ensure the car is roadworthy. To this end, you must arrange an appointment for the examination of your reconstructed vehicle by submitting the following:
- The original salvage title.
- A completed Request for Examination of Rebuilt Salvage Vehicle (Form LES 022A). Remember to make a copy of the form before submission, as you will need it during the actual rebuilt examination appointment.
- Payment for the following:
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- An inspection fee of $125.
- A rebuilt (or "substitute") title fee of $15. Mail all the required items to the address indicated on the form.
Subsequently, a representative from the Virginia DMV will contact you to schedule the examination. On the day of the appointment, bring the following items:
- Evidence that the vehicle has scaled the state safety inspection.
- The photocopy of the Request for Examination of Rebuilt Salvage Automobile.
- Photographs depicting the vehicle's pre-repair condition.
- Receipts for all original parts used in the restoration.
- Any old parts that display the vehicle identification number, if available.
During the scheduling process, the DMV representative will inform you if any additional documents are necessary.
Upon completing the inspection, you will be issued a Virginia car title with the "REBUILT" designation. You can proceed with the application for car registration 48 hours after receiving the title.
Cost of Getting a Rebuilt Title in Virginia
Various fees are involved in obtaining a rebuilt title in Virginia. These fees may include an inspection fee, a substitute title fee, and other applicable titling costs.
The standard titling cost is currently $15. But, no fee will be imposed if you apply for a "nonrebuildable" certificate.
However, additional expenses include a $125 examination fee and a $10 substitute title fee.
Insuring a Vehicle With a Rebuilt Title in Virginia
Insurance coverage for vehicles with rebuilt titles is possible, although it primarily revolves around liability insurance.
Finding insurers willing to provide broader coverage may be more challenging due to the complexities of assessing the value of a rebuilt vehicle.
It is recommended to research and contact insurance companies to explore available options and obtain cost estimates.
Inspections for a Rebuilt Title in Virginia
Requirements for Safety Inspections in Virginia
To provide proof of passing a Virginia safety inspection, you should present the official documentation or certificate issued by a certified Virginia safety inspection station.
The Purpose of Exa mining a Rebuilt Salvage Vehicle in Virginia
An examination of a rebuilt salvage vehicle in Virginia is conducted to ensure that the vehicle has been properly rebuilt and is safe to operate on the road.
Once the vehicle passes the examination, the DMV Special Agent will notify the Vehicle Branding Work Center, and the rebuilt title will be mailed to you.
Safety Inspection Certificates From Another State
A safety inspection certificate from another state is insufficient. You must pass a Virginia safety inspection and provide the corresponding documentation to meet the requirements for examining a rebuilt salvage vehicle in Virginia.
