How to Junk a Car in Pennsylvania
Junking a car in Pennsylvania is simple when you follow the correct process. Since 2016, Junk Car Medics has helped thousands of Pennsylvanians legally junk their vehicles while complying with all PennDOT regulations. 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 Pennsylvania?
PennDOT defines a junk vehicle as one that is damaged, dismantled, or sold for scrap. Any car declared a total loss by an insurer is also considered junk. To learn more, see our What Is a Junk Car? guide.
Step-by-Step Process to Junk a Car in Pennsylvania
- Get Your Offer: Submit your car’s year, make, model, and condition for a guaranteed 7-day offer.
- Schedule Free Pickup: We coordinate free towing with a licensed carrier at your convenience.
- Sign the Title: Complete Section A on the front of the Pennsylvania Certificate of Title. Both seller and buyer must sign and print their names in front of a notary.
- Get Paid on the Spot: You receive cash or check when the vehicle is picked up.
- Remove Plates and Notify PennDOT: Remove your license plates. File a report of sale or transfer and return the plate if necessary.
- Cancel Insurance: Notify your insurance company after the transfer is complete.
What You Need to Junk a Car in Pennsylvania
PennDOT (Pennsylvania Department of Transportation) requires clear proof of ownership and proper documentation for all vehicle transfers and junking. Below are the key items you’ll need:
- Vehicle Title: A valid Pennsylvania Certificate of Title. If lost, request a duplicate with Form MV-38O.
- Photo ID: A valid Pennsylvania driver’s license or state-issued ID is required to verify your identity.
- Notarized Signatures: Both seller and buyer must sign the title in front of a notary public to complete the transfer legally.
- Odometer Reading: Required if the vehicle is less than 10 years old, written on the title at the time of sale.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Junking a Car in Pennsylvania?
You must have the original Pennsylvania title to junk a vehicle. If it is lost, request a replacement using Form MV-38O. Both the seller and buyer must sign the title in front of a notary public.
If the vehicle is going to be destroyed, the VIN plate must be removed. It must be destroyed or given to PennDOT with the required forms and title.
Can You Junk a Car Without a Title in Pennsylvania?
No. Pennsylvania law requires a valid title to sell or junk a car. If your title is lost, you must apply for a replacement using Form MV-38O before proceeding.
Is Registration Required to Junk a Car in Pennsylvania?
No. The registration does not need to be active, but the title must be in your name and properly signed over to the buyer.
Do I Need to Notify the DMV?
Yes. You must report the title transfer to PennDOT. You may also need to return your license plates. If the vehicle is being dismantled, take off the VIN plate and submit it with the title and documentation.
Licensed dismantlers in Pennsylvania must keep records of all junk cars they acquire and submit proof of each vehicle's disposal to PennDOT.
We recently helped a customer in Pittsburgh junk their 2008 Chevy Malibu. The title was notarized and ready, and we paid $475 on the spot with same-day pickup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Junking a Car in Pennsylvania
- Not notarizing the title: In Pennsylvania, all title transfers require notarized signatures.
- Leaving plates on the car: Always remove your plates and return them if needed by PennDOT.
- Selling to an unlicensed buyer: Make sure you’re dealing with a licensed and reputable junk car buyer.
- Incomplete buyer info on the title: Ensure all required fields are properly filled out.
Helpful Resources
- PennDOT: Access title transfer rules, Form MV-38O, and general guidelines: dot.state.pa.us
- Pennsylvania DEP: Manages auto recycling and dismantling compliance across the state: dep.pa.gov
- Automotive Recyclers Association of Pennsylvania: Find licensed and certified dismantlers.
Junk a Car in Pennsylvania
Junk Car Medics offers professional junk car removal services across Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Erie, Reading, and more. Whether you’re in the city or a rural part of the state, we’ll help you get the job done right.
Find your area below or get your free quote to get started today.