How to Junk a Car in Alabama
Junking a car in Alabama is simple if you know the steps. Since 2016, Junk Car Medics has helped thousands of Alabamians sell their junk cars fast and legally. We follow Alabama title laws and make the process easy. Get an instant offer now or read on to learn exactly what to do.
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What Counts as a Junk Car in Alabama?
Alabama defines a junk car as any vehicle that is inoperable, unsafe to drive, or costs more to repair than it is worth. This includes vehicles sold to dismantlers or crushed for scrap. For more details, visit our What Is a Junk Car? guide.
Step-by-Step Process to Junk a Car in Alabama
- Get Your Offer: Submit your vehicle details to receive a guaranteed cash offer valid for 7 days.
- Schedule Free Pickup: Choose a day and time that works for you. We arrange free towing with a licensed carrier.
- Sign the Title: Complete the back of the Alabama Certificate of Title by signing as the seller. Include the buyer’s information and the date of sale.
- Get Paid on the Spot: You’ll receive cash or check when the vehicle is picked up.
- Remove the License Plates: Take off the plates before the vehicle is towed. You may return them to your local licensing office if required.
- Report the Sale: Complete the Notice of Sale on the bottom portion of the title or notify the Alabama Department of Revenue online.
- Cancel Your Insurance: Once the sale is complete, contact your insurer to cancel coverage.
What You Need to Junk a Car in Alabama
The Alabama Department of Revenue (ADOR) requires that junk vehicles be transferred properly with proof of ownership and correct documentation.
- Certificate of Title: A valid Alabama title is required for all vehicles newer than 35 years. Older vehicles may not require a title if exempt.
- Photo ID: An Alabama driver’s license or state-issued ID is needed to verify ownership.
- Odometer Disclosure: Required for vehicles under 10 years old. This is recorded on the title.
- Notice of Sale: Fill this out on the title itself or report the transfer through the ADOR’s online portal.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Junking a Car in Alabama?
In Alabama, junking a vehicle requires proof of ownership and proper title documentation. If a title is lost, the owner must request a replacement from the Alabama Department of Revenue (Form MVT 12-1). The title must be free of liens before transfer.
Before the vehicle is crushed or dismantled, the VIN plate must be removed. The plate must be destroyed or returned to the Department of Revenue. Ownership documents must also be submitted for recordkeeping.
Can You Junk a Car Without a Title in Alabama?
If the vehicle is 35 years old or older, it may be exempt from title requirements. Otherwise, you must apply for a replacement title through the Alabama Department of Revenue before junking it.
Do You Need to Report the Sale in Alabama?
Yes. You must complete the Notice of Sale section on the title or notify the Alabama Department of Revenue to release your liability.
Do I Need to Notify the DMV?
Yes. In Alabama, you must report the sale of a junk vehicle using Form MVT 5-13. You should also remove the license plate and cancel your registration. If the vehicle will be destroyed, the VIN plate must be removed and submitted or destroyed along with title documents.
Licensed dismantlers in Alabama must document how they acquired each junk vehicle and keep records for inspection by the state.
We helped a customer in Birmingham junk a 1999 Chevy Blazer that was sitting in their driveway for years. The title was in hand, and we paid $370 cash the same day with free towing included.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Junking a Car in Alabama
- Skipping the Notice of Sale: This can leave you liable for future parking tickets or legal issues.
- Junking a car without confirming title exemption: Vehicles under 35 years require a title. Don’t assume yours is exempt without checking.
- Leaving plates on the car: Always remove and return them when required.
- Selling to an unlicensed buyer: Only use licensed junk car buyers and dismantlers in Alabama.
Helpful Resources
- Alabama Department of Revenue (ADOR): Title info, notice of sale, and ownership requirements: revenue.alabama.gov
- Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA): Vehicle registration and plate return procedures: alea.gov
- Alabama Automotive Dismantlers Association: List of licensed dismantlers in Alabama.
Junk a Car in Alabama
We provide fast and legal junk car removal throughout Alabama — including Birmingham, Montgomery, Mobile, Huntsville, Tuscaloosa, and surrounding areas. Whether you're in a city or a rural town, we help you junk your car the right way.
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