California Junk Car Title — How to Properly Junk a Vehicle
Junking a car in California requires using a licensed facility and properly transferring or surrendering the title. Selling to an unlicensed buyer leaves the title in your name — making you liable for future violations. Here is what you need to know.
Can Junk Without Title (with ID + affidavit)
Submit REG 227 (Application for Duplicate Title) to get a duplicate first, then complete the junk process — OR use the REG 5057D (Dismantler Application) if using a licensed dismantler who can process without the title.
Licensed CA dismantlers (auto wreckers) can accept vehicles without a title if you provide a valid ID and sign a dismantler affidavit. The dismantler submits the paperwork to the DMV.
Junk Title Name
Certificate of Title (Junk/Scrap) or Junk Certificate
CA DMV issues a Junk Certificate (a "junk receipt") when a vehicle is permanently destroyed. This terminates all title rights.
Processing Time
Same day (dismantler handles paperwork)
Most licensed CA dismantlers process the paperwork same-day. You get a receipt and the title is terminated.
Certificate of Destruction
Available
California issues a Certificate of Destruction (COD) for vehicles declared total...
Without-Title Pathway
Licensed CA dismantlers (ARD) can accept without title with owner ID and affidavit
Required Documents
- 1CA vehicle title (if available)
- 2Driver's license or government-issued ID
- 3Signed REG 262 (Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment) or Dismantler's form
- 4Smog certificate (if selling for parts to a licensed dismantler, exempted)
Junking a vehicle to a licensed CA dismantler typically has fewer documentation requirements than a private sale. The dismantler handles title termination.
Who Can Accept Your Junk Car
CA licensed auto dismantlers (ARD) — licensed by the DMV
Only CA-licensed Auto Recyclers/Dismantlers (ARD) can accept vehicles for dismantling under the CA regulatory framework. Confirm the facility's ARD license before surrendering your vehicle.
California Note
California has strict requirements about who can dismantle vehicles. Using an unlicensed dismantler creates liability — the title remains in your name until properly transferred through a licensed ARD.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I junk a car without a title in California?
Yes — Submit REG 227 (Application for Duplicate Title) to get a duplicate first, then complete the junk process — OR use the REG 5057D (Dismantler Application) if using a licensed dismantler who can process without the title. Licensed CA dismantlers (auto wreckers) can accept vehicles without a title if you provide a valid ID and sign a dismantler affidavit. The dismantler submits the paperwork to the DMV.
What is a Certificate of Destruction in California?
California issues Certificates of Destruction. California issues a Certificate of Destruction (COD) for vehicles declared total losses by insurers. The COD prevents the vehicle from being re-titled. A COD is different from a standard salvage title — a COD vehicle cannot be rebuilt and re-titled.
Who can accept my junk car in California?
CA licensed auto dismantlers (ARD) — licensed by the DMV. Only CA-licensed Auto Recyclers/Dismantlers (ARD) can accept vehicles for dismantling under the CA regulatory framework. Confirm the facility's ARD license before surrendering your vehicle.
What documents do I need to junk a car in California?
To junk a car in California: CA vehicle title (if available), Driver's license or government-issued ID, Signed REG 262 (Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment) or Dismantler's form, Smog certificate (if selling for parts to a licensed dismantler, exempted). Junking a vehicle to a licensed CA dismantler typically has fewer documentation requirements than a private sale. The dismantler handles title termination.