How to Register Salvage Vehicles in Connecticut

In Connecticut, when a vehicle is wrecked, and the damage is greater than the cost of the vehicle, the title will be stamped "Salvage." It is illegal to operate any vehicle with a salvage title on public roadways in Connecticut. If you wish to repair, register and drive a vehicle that has been declared as salvage, there is a simple process to follow. The process involves having the proper repairs made and filing forms to have the salvage mark removed from the vehicle's title.

Instructions

1

Examine and photograph your damaged vehicle from each outside angle, as well as all damage it has incurred. Gather all documentation concerning the accident, including vehicle accident reports from the local or state police and a copy of the report filed with your insurance company.

2

Repair your vehicle to proper standards as outlined in a vehicle repair guide. If you take your vehicle to a mechanic, make sure they have credentials such as ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification. Repairs must be properly performed in order to qualify for the removal of salvage status on the vehicle's title. Photograph the vehicle during the repair process to show that the repairs were properly performed. Save all receipts and documentation concerning the repairs for use when requesting a new title.

3

Photograph your repaired vehicle from all four angles. The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles requires at least four pictures of the repaired vehicle, including a shot from each outside corner. You will need extra photographs of any new welding which was done to the vehicle.

4

Fill out a Salvage Vehicle Repair Report form to submit when requesting a new non-salvaged title. You can find this form online at the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (C.D.M.V.) website, as listed below, or you can request a copy from your local C.D.M.V office. If your repairs were performed by a mechanic, you will need their signature and contact information on the form.

5

Take your completed Salvage Vehicle Repair Report and all other documentation listed above to a local branch of the C.D.M.V. You will then schedule a vehicle inspection and emissions test for which there is an $88.00 fee. After passing the inspection and testing, you will be able to request a new title which will be mailed to the address on your current title.