Illinois
friendlySalvage & rebuilt title laws for car flippers — updated 2026
The 9+ model year inspection exemption is a game-changer for flipping older vehicles. No inspection needed at all. For newer vehicles, the process is more involved with dual inspections.
Vehicles 9+ model years old are exempt from rebuilt inspection
Conversion Process
Must be rebuilt by a licensed rebuilder. Take vehicle to Secretary of State inspection station. If 8 model years or newer, also requires Secretary of State Police second inspection. Must also get IDOT Certificate of Safety.
Inspection Requirements
Type: both
Agency: Secretary of State inspection station + SOS Police + IDOT
$94 inspection fee. Vehicles 8 model years or newer require TWO inspections (SOS station + SOS Police). Vehicles 9+ model years old are EXEMPT from inspection. IDOT Certificate of Safety also required. Inspection report valid for 6 months only.
Out-of-State Titles
Accepts out-of-state salvage: Yes
Accepts non-repairable: No
Accepts out-of-state salvage titles but CT salvage stamps are not accepted for Massachusetts (relevant for multi-state flippers).
Title Branding
Title reads: REBUILT
Issues parts-only: Yes
Issues certificate of destruction: Yes
Non-repairable label: Junk / Non-Repairable
Resale Impact
Chicago metro is a strong market for rebuilt vehicles. Age exemption makes older vehicle flips very easy.
Fees
Salvage title fee: $95
Rebuilt title fee: $95
Special Restrictions
- • Must be rebuilt by a LICENSED rebuilder
- • Vehicles 8 model years or newer need two separate inspections
- • 9+ model year vehicles are EXEMPT from inspection (huge for flippers)
- • Dealers prohibited from selling salvage-titled vehicles to public
- • Inspection report expires after 6 months
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