How to Get Ownership of an Abandoned Vehicle

Have you ever come across an abandoned car and thought you could put it to good use? While abandoned cars may be a tempting find, it’s important to note that taking ownership of an abandoned vehicle is a process that varies from state to state. In this article, we’ll go over the steps you need to take to legally obtain ownership of an abandoned vehicle.

Step 1: Determine If the Car Is Abandoned

The first step to obtaining ownership of an abandoned vehicle is to determine if it’s actually abandoned. A car that’s parked in the same spot for an extended period, has expired tags or has broken windows may be considered abandoned. Check with your local DMV to find out what the laws are in your state regarding abandoned vehicles.

Step 2: Contact the Owner

If you can identify the owner of the abandoned car, it’s best to contact them first. They may have simply forgotten about the vehicle and may willingly transfer ownership to you. If they’re unresponsive, you may need to take the next step.

Step 3: Check with Your Local DMV

Each state has different laws regarding abandoned vehicles. Check with your local DMV to find out what the laws are in your state. You may need to file a report or go through a legal process to obtain ownership of the vehicle.

Step 4: File a Report

If the owner cannot be identified or located, you may need to file a report with your local DMV. This report will often include information about the vehicle, such as the make and model, license plate number and location where it was found.

Step 5: Wait for a Response

After filing a report, you’ll need to wait for a response from your local DMV. The process can take several weeks or even months, so be patient. The DMV will typically attempt to contact the owner of the abandoned car to give them a chance to claim it.

Step 6: Obtain a Title

If the owner doesn’t respond within a certain period, you may be able to obtain a title for the vehicle. This will give you legal ownership of the car. The title transfer process varies from state to state, so check with your local DMV for specific instructions.

Step 7: Register the Vehicle

Once you have obtained a title, you’ll need to register the vehicle with your state’s DMV. This will allow you to legally drive the car on public roads.

Step 8: Get Insurance

Before driving the vehicle, you’ll need to get insurance. Make sure to shop around for the best rates and coverage options.

Step 9: Restore the Vehicle

If the abandoned car is in poor condition, you’ll need to restore it before driving it on public roads. This may involve fixing the engine, brakes, or other mechanical components. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, take the car to a mechanic.

Step 10: Enjoy Your New Car

Once the vehicle is registered, insured, and restored, you’re ready to hit the road. Enjoy your new car!