How to Junk a Car in California
Junking a car in California is easy when you follow the proper steps. Since 2016, Junk Car Medics has helped thousands of California residents legally junk their cars for cash. We make the process fast, secure, and compliant with California state regulations. Get an instant offer now or continue reading to learn everything you need to know.
Get Your Instant Offer
What Counts as a Junk Car in California?
The California DMV defines a junk vehicle as one that is wrecked, dismantled, or sold to a dismantler. These cars are no longer eligible to be registered for road use. Learn more by visiting our What Is a Junk Car? guide.
Step-by-Step Process to Junk a Car in California
- Get Your Offer: Enter your car’s year, make, model, and condition to receive a guaranteed offer valid for 7 days.
- Schedule Free Pickup: We coordinate pickup with a licensed towing carrier at no charge to you.
- Sign the Title: Complete the California Certificate of Title (Form REG 227 or REG 516 if missing) by signing where it says "Seller's Signature." Ensure the odometer section is filled out if applicable.
- Get Paid on the Spot: We hand you cash or a check when the vehicle is picked up.
- Submit a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability: File this with the California DMV either online or using Form REG 138 to protect yourself from future responsibility.
- Cancel Insurance: Once the sale is complete, notify your auto insurance provider to stop coverage.
What You Need to Junk a Car in California
California law requires proof of ownership and specific documentation when junking a vehicle. You must also follow DMV transfer and liability release procedures to complete the process properly.
- Certificate of Title: Required for all vehicles. If unavailable, use Application for Duplicate or Paperless Title (REG 227).
- Valid Photo ID: California driver’s license or state ID card to confirm identity.
- Odometer Disclosure: Required for vehicles less than 10 years old. Complete this on the title or via a separate Odometer Disclosure Statement (REG 262).
- Form REG 138: The Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability must be filed to notify the state you no longer own the car.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Junking a Car in California?
California requires the title to be in your name to junk a car. If the title is lost, request a duplicate using REG 227. The title must not have any active lien unless a lien release is provided.
Before a vehicle is scrapped or dismantled, the VIN plate must be removed. The plate must be destroyed or turned in to the California DMV with the ownership documents.
Can You Junk a Car Without a Title in California?
If you’ve lost the title, you must apply for a duplicate using Form REG 227. California does not allow you to junk a car based solely on a bill of sale or registration. Proof of ownership is required.
Is Registration Required to Junk a Car in California?
No. As long as you have the title or proper ownership documentation, expired registration will not prevent you from junking your car.
Do I Need to Notify the DMV?
Yes. You must file a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability with the DMV. Also remove the license plates. Before destruction, take off the VIN plate and submit it with the title. This stops future fees or legal issues.
Licensed dismantlers in California must file a Notice of Acquisition with the DMV and report each vehicle they process.
We recently helped a customer in Los Angeles junk their 2005 Toyota Prius. It had over 240,000 miles and wasn’t running. We paid $480, picked it up the same day, and handled the DMV release for them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Junking a Car in California
- Not filing the Notice of Transfer: This can leave you liable for parking tickets or violations after the sale.
- Incomplete title paperwork: Make sure all required fields are filled out, including mileage if applicable.
- Selling to unlicensed buyers: Always work with licensed auto dismantlers or buyers like Junk Car Medics.
- Leaving personal items inside: Always inspect your car before handing it over.
Helpful Resources
- California DMV: Provides title forms, REG 227, REG 138, and release instructions: dmv.ca.gov
- California BAR (Bureau of Automotive Repair): Regulates dismantler licensing and vehicle recycling: bar.ca.gov
- Auto Dismantlers Association of California: Search for licensed dismantlers and auto recyclers.
Junk a Car in California
We offer professional junk car removal across California, including Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, Sacramento, Fresno, and more. Whether you’re in the Bay Area or the Central Valley, we’ll help you junk your car the right way.
Find your city below or get your free offer today.