How to Junk a Car in New Jersey
Junking a car in New Jersey is easy when you follow the proper steps. Since 2016, Junk Car Medics has helped thousands of New Jersey residents junk their cars while staying compliant with state law. We make the process fast, legal, and convenient. Get an instant offer now or continue reading to learn everything you need to know.
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What Counts as a Junk Car in New Jersey?
New Jersey classifies a junk vehicle as one that is no longer roadworthy, damaged beyond repair, or sold for scrap. This includes insurance-totaled vehicles. Learn more at our What Is a Junk Car? guide.
Step-by-Step Process to Junk a Car in New Jersey
- Get Your Offer: Provide your car’s year, make, model, and condition for a guaranteed offer valid for 7 days.
- Schedule Free Pickup: Choose a pickup time. Our licensed tow partner will handle removal at no cost.
- Sign the Title: Fill out the back of your New Jersey Certificate of Title, including buyer name, mileage, and date of sale. Sign where indicated under “Seller’s Signature.”
- Get Paid on the Spot: You’ll receive payment when we pick up the vehicle and verify documentation.
- Remove Plates and Notify NJ MVC: Remove your license plates and return them to the MVC or transfer them to another vehicle. File a Notice of Sale using the online portal or Form OS/SS-UTA.
- Cancel Insurance: Cancel your insurance after the title transfer is complete and plates are returned.
What You Need to Junk a Car in New Jersey
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJ MVC) requires ownership documentation and proper transfer steps to legally junk a vehicle. Here's what you need:
- Vehicle Title: Required to transfer ownership. If lost, request a duplicate title using Form BA-49.
- Valid ID: A New Jersey driver’s license or state-issued ID is required to verify the seller.
- Odometer Disclosure: Required for vehicles less than 10 years old. Enter the mileage on the back of the title or complete Form OS/SS-UTA.
- Notice of Sale: Complete this online or by submitting Form OS/SS-UTA to release liability and document the sale.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Junking a Car in New Jersey?
You must have a valid New Jersey title to junk your car. If you lost it, request a duplicate title using Form BA-49. The title must be free of liens unless you provide a lien release.
Before disposal, remove the VIN plate. Submit it or destroy it along with the title and transfer documents.
Can You Junk a Car Without a Title in New Jersey?
No. You must have a title to junk a vehicle in New Jersey. If the title is missing, apply for a duplicate using Form BA-49. A bill of sale or registration is not enough to prove ownership.
Is Registration Required to Junk a Car in New Jersey?
No. You do not need active registration to junk your vehicle as long as you have the title in your name.
Do I Need to Notify the DMV?
Yes. You must notify the New Jersey MVC of the sale using a Notice of Transfer. Remove your license plates and return them if required. If the vehicle is scrapped, include the VIN plate with your paperwork.
Licensed dismantlers in New Jersey must submit reports on every junk vehicle they acquire and maintain records as required by the MVC.
A seller in Newark recently junked a 2004 Ford Taurus with us. It had been sitting in a driveway for 2 years. We paid $375 cash, picked it up that day, and made sure the MVC process was completed properly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Junking a Car in New Jersey
- Not returning your license plates: Failing to surrender plates can result in fines or issues with the MVC.
- Not reporting the sale: Always submit the Notice of Sale to avoid liability.
- Skipping the odometer reading: Required for vehicles under 10 years old.
- Selling to an unlicensed buyer: Use only licensed recyclers and dismantlers like Junk Car Medics.
Helpful Resources
- New Jersey MVC: Title transfers, BA-49 form, Notice of Sale (OS/SS-UTA), and online services: nj.gov/mvc
- New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP): Regulates automotive recycling and salvage yards: nj.gov/dep
- New Jersey Auto Recyclers Association: Lists licensed auto dismantlers in the state.
Junk a Car in New Jersey
We provide junk car removal across New Jersey, including Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth, Trenton, and more. Whether you're in a city or small town, we help you junk your car the right way.
Find your location below or get your free quote today.