Yes, you can drive a salvage title car in Texas, but only after it has been repaired, inspected, and successfully re-titled as "Rebuilt." You cannot legally drive a vehicle with an active salvage title on public roads. The process is managed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) and is designed to ensure the vehicle is safe and roadworthy. The most critical step is passing a specific Rebuilt Vehicle Inspection at an authorized Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) inspection station.
This inspection is more rigorous than a standard annual safety check. An inspector will verify the vehicle's major component parts, including the frame, to ensure it has been properly restored. You must provide receipts for all major parts used in the repairs. Once it passes, you receive a Form VTR-64-A, "Rebuilt Vehicle Statement." You then submit this form, along with the salvage title, an application for a rebuilt title, and all required fees to the county tax assessor-collector’s office.
| Inspection Criteria | Standard Safety Inspection | Rebuilt Vehicle Inspection (VTR-64-A) |
|---|
| Purpose | General roadworthiness | Verify safety after major repair |
| Frame/Structure Check | Visual inspection for obvious damage | Detailed inspection for proper repair and alignment |
| Part Verification | Not typically required | Requires receipts for major replacement parts (e.g., airbags, frame rails) |
| Title Status After Pass | Allows registration renewal | Allows application for "Rebuilt" title |
| Cost | ~$7.00 - $25.00 | ~$50.00 - $100.00+ |
The main challenges are cost and complexity. The repairs must be done correctly, and the inspection is thorough. Insurance can also be more difficult and expensive to obtain for a rebuilt title vehicle. While it can be a way to get a car for less money, it requires a significant investment of time and effort to make it legal for Texas roads.
