Missouri
friendlySalvage & rebuilt title laws for car flippers — updated 2026
Low fees ($34 total). Optional salvage title for 6+ year old vehicles means older cars might avoid salvage brand entirely. 'Prior Salvage' is lighter branding. Great for flipping.
Vehicles more than 6 years past model year: salvage title application is OPTIONAL (not mandatory)
Conversion Process
Repair vehicle. Obtain Vehicle Examination Certificate (Form DOR-551) from authorized law enforcement (must be <60 days old). Apply for prior salvage title at DOR licensing office.
Inspection Requirements
Type: anti-theft
Agency: Authorized law enforcement
$25 examination fee + $9 processing fee = $34 total. Vehicle Examination Certificate (Form DOR-551) must be no more than 60 days old when applying. Examination by authorized law enforcement.
Out-of-State Titles
Accepts out-of-state salvage: Yes
Accepts non-repairable: No
Accepts out-of-state salvage titles. Same examination required.
Title Branding
Title reads: PRIOR SALVAGE
Issues parts-only: No
Issues certificate of destruction: Yes
Non-repairable label: Junking Certificate
Resale Impact
St. Louis and Kansas City metros have good demand. 'Prior Salvage' branding is perceived as less severe. Optional salvage title for older vehicles is advantageous.
Fees
Salvage title fee: $8
Rebuilt title fee: $8
Special Restrictions
- • Vehicle examination certificate expires in 60 days
- • Salvage title mandatory only for vehicles within 6 years of model year
- • Older vehicles (6+ years): salvage title is optional
- • 'Prior Salvage' branding is less stigmatized than 'rebuilt salvage'
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