How do I ensure a salvage title vehicle is properly insured according to California regulations?

To properly insure a salvage vehicle in California, you must first have it professionally repaired, inspected, and officially retitled as "Revived Salvage" by the DMV. Only then can you purchase the liability insurance required to legally operate it on public roads. Here is how to ensure your salvage vehicle is properly insured: Step 1: Repair the Vehicle and Gather Documents Repair the vehicle to meet California safety standards. Crucially, you must keep all receipts for the new, used, or rebuilt parts used in the repair process. The DMV will require these to verify the vehicle was properly rebuilt. Step 2: Obtain Official Safety Inspections You must take the repaired vehicle to a state-licensed inspection station to get an official Brake Adjustment Certificate and a Lamp Adjustment Certificate. These prove the vehicle’s critical safety systems are functioning correctly. Step 3: Complete the DMV Application and Vehicle Verification Fill out an Application for Title or Registration (Form REG 343). You will also need to have the vehicle verified by a DMV employee or, in some cases, the California Highway Patrol (CHP). This verification confirms the vehicle's identity. Step 4: Apply for a "Revived Salvage" Title at the DMV Take your original Salvage Certificate, the completed REG 343, your brake and lamp certificates, and all repair receipts to a DMV office. Upon approval, the DMV will issue a new title branded "Revived Salvage." Step 5: Purchase Auto Insurance With your Revived Salvage title, you can now purchase insurance. You must inform potential insurers that the vehicle has a revived salvage title. You are required by law (CVC 16021) to have at least liability coverage. Important details and nuances: A vehicle with a "Salvage Certificate" cannot be legally driven or insured for road use. It must first be retitled to "Revived Salvage." Be aware that many insurance carriers are hesitant to insure revived salvage vehicles and may refuse to provide comprehensive or collision coverage. They will typically only offer liability coverage, which covers damages you cause to others but not to your own vehicle. Warnings and limitations: Insurance options for revived salvage vehicles are limited and often more expensive for the coverage you receive. If an insurer does offer comprehensive coverage, the maximum payout in the event of a future claim will be substantially lower than for a vehicle with a clean title, reflecting its diminished value. This is general information and does not constitute legal advice. For complex situations, consult with a qualified California attorney.