How to Junk a Car in Kentucky
Junking a car in Kentucky is easy when you know the process. Since 2016, Junk Car Medics has helped thousands of people across the state get rid of junk cars safely, legally, and for top dollar. We follow all requirements set by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. Get an instant offer now or keep reading to learn everything you need to know.
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What Counts as a Junk Car in Kentucky?
Kentucky classifies a car as junk if it is not operable, is heavily damaged, or has been sold to a recycler. Visit our What Is a Junk Car? guide to learn more.
Step-by-Step Process to Junk a Car in Kentucky
- Get Your Offer: Provide your vehicle’s year, make, model, and condition to receive a guaranteed 7-day offer.
- Schedule Free Pickup: We arrange towing at your convenience at no charge to you.
- Sign the Title: Sign the back of the Kentucky Certificate of Title in the seller section. If there's a lien, a lien release must be included.
- Get Paid on the Spot: We pay you at pickup and remove the vehicle for free.
- Complete Form TC 96-3 (Application to Dispose of a Vehicle): Some counties may require this to complete the junking process.
- Return Plates (if applicable): In some Kentucky counties, plates may be returned to the County Clerk. Check locally.
- Cancel Insurance: After transfer, notify your insurer to end the policy.
What You Need to Junk a Car in Kentucky
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet requires specific documentation for legal junk car sales. Ownership must be proven and any lien must be cleared.
- Vehicle Title: You need a clear Kentucky Certificate of Title. If it’s lost, apply for a duplicate using Form TC 96-182.
- Valid ID: A Kentucky driver’s license or state-issued ID is required.
- Odometer Disclosure: Required on the title for vehicles less than 10 years old.
- Form TC 96-3: May be needed for final disposal documentation, especially in counties requiring salvage reporting.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Junking a Car in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, you need a clear title to junk a car. If the title is missing, request a duplicate from the County Clerk using Form TC 96-182. All liens must be removed.
Before junking the vehicle, remove the VIN plate. Destroy the plate or turn it in with your documents to the County Clerk.
Can You Junk a Car Without a Title in Kentucky?
No. A title is required to prove ownership. If it is lost, apply for a duplicate using Form TC 96-182 before selling the vehicle.
Do You Need Active Registration to Junk a Car?
No. Registration does not need to be current, but the vehicle must be titled in your name.
Do I Need to Notify the DMV?
Yes. Submit the title and completed paperwork to your local County Clerk’s office. Remove the license plates. If the car is being destroyed, remove the VIN plate and return it with the title. This prevents future issues or liability.
Licensed dismantlers in Kentucky must report all junk vehicle acquisitions and comply with state recycling and recordkeeping laws.
We recently helped a customer in Louisville sell their junk car that had been sitting in their driveway for years. They had the title, we picked it up that day, and paid $510 cash with no hassle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Junking a Car in Kentucky
- Signing in the wrong place on the title: Always sign in the seller section only.
- Not checking for local form requirements: Some counties require Form TC 96-3. Confirm with your County Clerk.
- Failing to cancel insurance: Once the car is picked up, notify your insurer.
- Selling to an unlicensed buyer: Work only with licensed recyclers or dismantlers in Kentucky.
Helpful Resources
- Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC): Access forms including TC 96-182 and TC 96-3: drive.ky.gov
- Kentucky Department of Environmental Protection: Oversees recycling and disposal compliance: eec.ky.gov
- Automotive Recyclers Association of Kentucky: Search for certified auto recyclers in the state.
Junk a Car in Kentucky
Junk Car Medics serves all of Kentucky with fast, free junk car removal. From Louisville and Lexington to Bowling Green, Owensboro, and Covington — we help you junk your car quickly and legally.
Find your city below or get a free quote to get started today.