The bottom line: To sell your car to a junkyard, you need:
- Vehicle title (mandatory in most states; some exceptions exist for vehicles older than 10-12 years)
- Valid photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
- Release of liability form (to submit to your DMV after the sale)
- Bill of sale or receipt (get this from the junkyard as proof of transaction)
Remember to remove your license plates before the sale. Having a title will almost always get you a better offer than selling without one.
Junkyard Car Selling Checklist
Everything you need to turn that old clunker into cash!
Document Prep
-
The pink or blue piece of paper that proves you own the car. Can’t find it? You’ll need to get a replacement from the DMV before selling in most states.
-
Driver’s license or state ID card. Junkyards need to verify you’re actually the person who owns the car (and not stealing cars as a hobby).
-
While not always required if you have the title, this can serve as backup proof of ownership in some states if title issues arise.
-
This form notifies your state that you’re no longer responsible for the vehicle. You’ll need to submit this to your DMV after the sale.
Did You Know?
An average car contains approximately 30,000 unique parts. When your car is recycled at a junkyard, up to 80% of it can be reused or recycled!
Vehicle Prep
-
Don’t let your plates ride off into the sunset! In most states, you’re legally required to remove them before selling your car.
-
Check every nook and cranny! Don’t forget to look in the trunk, glove box, under seats, sun visors, door pockets, and center console.
-
Consider removing newer tires, stereo systems, GPS units, or other aftermarket parts you might want to keep or sell separately.
-
No need to fill up before selling! Consider using up most of the gas or even siphoning it for your new ride if practical.
Junkyard Jackpot!
People have found some pretty unusual things in junked cars, including rare coins, forgotten jewelry, and even cash stashed in door panels. One last thorough search could pay off!
Final Steps
-
Prices can vary by hundreds of dollars between junkyards. Spend 30 minutes calling around to get the best offer for your vehicle.
-
Make sure you get written proof of the transaction. This protects you if there are any questions about who owns the vehicle later.
-
File your release of liability form with your state’s DMV ASAP. This officially removes the vehicle from your name and protects you from future liability.
-
Don’t keep paying for coverage on a car you no longer own! Call your insurance provider to remove the vehicle from your policy.
Essential Documents You’ll Need
Vehicle Title (Certificate of Title)
The title is the most important document when selling your car to a junkyard. This proves you legally own the vehicle and have the right to sell it.
If you own your car outright, you’ll have the title in your possession. You’ll need to sign it over to the junkyard by completing the transfer section.
If you’ve lost your title, you’ll need to get a replacement from your state’s DMV before selling. This usually requires completing an application form, providing identification, and paying a fee.
What If I Don’t Have a Title?
Selling a car without a title is possible in some states, particularly for older vehicles. The specific requirements vary by location, so check our detailed guide on selling a car without a title for state-by-state information.
Without a title, expect to:
- Receive less money for your vehicle
- Complete additional paperwork
- Provide alternative proof of ownership (like registration)
- Show a government-issued ID
Bill of Sale
A bill of sale documents the transaction between you and the junkyard. While not always required, it provides protection for both parties by clearly stating:
- Your name and contact information
- The junkyard’s name and contact information
- Vehicle details (VIN, make, model, year)
- Sale price
- Date of sale
Many junkyards will provide their own bill of sale form for you to sign. Some states require specific forms – for example, New York requires a Vehicle Bill of Sale (form MV-912).
Valid Photo ID
Junkyards will almost always require you to show a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state ID card. This helps verify your identity and prevents the sale of stolen vehicles.
Release of Liability Form
This important document officially notifies your state that you’re no longer responsible for the vehicle. After selling your car:
- File this form with your state’s DMV as soon as possible
- Keep a copy for your records
- This protects you from liability if the vehicle is involved in any incidents after the sale
In California, this is called a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability form, which must be submitted after the sale.
License Plates: Don’t Forget to Remove Them!
Always remove your license plates before selling your car to a junkyard. Different states have different rules about what to do with them:
- Some states allow you to transfer them to a new vehicle
- Others require you to surrender them to the DMV or County Tag Office
- In some states, you can keep or destroy them if not transferring
For example:
- In Georgia, you must remove plates and can surrender them or transfer them
- In Wisconsin, remove plates and either transfer them or destroy them
- In New Jersey, plates must be turned in to the MVC if you’re not buying another vehicle
State-Specific Requirements
Paperwork requirements vary significantly between states. Each state has its own rules about:
- Whether a title is required (and exceptions for older vehicles)
- Specific forms needed for the transfer
- What to do with license plates
- How to notify the DMV about the sale
For detailed information about your state’s specific requirements, check our state-by-state guide to junkyard sales.
Always contact your state’s DMV or equivalent agency for the most current requirements.
After the Sale: Final Steps
Once you’ve sold your car to a junkyard, take these important final steps:
- Get a receipt or bill of sale from the junkyard
- File a release of liability with your state’s DMV
- Cancel your auto insurance for that vehicle
- Keep copies of all paperwork for at least two years
These steps protect you from future liability and provide documentation of the sale for your records.
Common Questions About Selling to a Junkyard
Can I sell a car with a lien on it to a junkyard?
No, you generally cannot sell a car that still has a lien. You’ll need to pay off the loan and get the title from your lender first.
Do junkyards typically pay more for cars with titles?
Yes, you’ll almost always get more money for your car if you have the title. Without a title, junkyards take on additional risk and paperwork.
How much paperwork should I expect to complete?
This varies by state and junkyard, but typically you’ll need to:
- Sign over the title
- Complete a bill of sale
- Fill out a release of liability form
- Show your ID
The entire process usually takes about 30 minutes.
Do I need to report the sale to the DMV?
Yes, in most states you need to report the sale to your DMV. This officially removes the vehicle from your name and protects you from future liability.
What about environmental concerns?
Reputable junkyards handle the proper disposal of hazardous materials like oil, antifreeze, and batteries. You don’t need to drain fluids yourself – in fact, it’s safer to leave this to the professionals.
Always choose licensed and reputable junkyards that follow environmentally responsible practices.
What should I remove from my car before selling it?
Remove all personal belongings, license plates, and any aftermarket parts you want to keep. Don’t forget to check:
- Glove compartment
- Trunk
- Under seats
- Door compartments
- Center console
- Sun visors