
The process for scrapping a car is as follows: 1. Fill out an application form at the business department of the vehicle dismantling factory: The vehicle owner must present their ID, vehicle registration certificate, vehicle license, and license plate to the business department of the vehicle dismantling factory to fill out the "Application Form for Vehicle Suspension, Resumption/Cancellation of Registration." They then wait for notification at the license management counter to pay fees and surrender the license plate. 2. Apply at the registration acceptance counter: Apply at the registration acceptance counter, where a "Vehicle Scrapping Notice" will be issued for vehicles that have reached the scrapping age limit. For vehicles that have not reached the scrapping age limit, the vehicle inspection counter will determine if they meet the scrapping standards and issue a "Vehicle Scrapping Notice." 3. Deliver the vehicle for dismantling: The vehicle owner chooses a qualified recycling company to deliver the vehicle for dismantling, using the "Notice." 4. Dismantle the vehicle and take photos: The recycling company dismantles the vehicle and takes photos after verifying the "Notice." The engine must be separated from the vehicle, the engine block must be broken, and the frame (chassis) must be cut. 5. Verify and sign the scrapping registration at the vehicle inspection counter: The vehicle owner submits the "Change Form," "XX Province Updated Vehicle Technical Appraisal Form," "Scrapped Vehicle Recycling Certificate," and photos of the dismantled vehicle to the vehicle inspection counter for verification and signing. The license and certificate are then reclaimed, and the scrapping registration is processed according to regulations after approval.

I just scrapped my old car, and the process was actually quite simple. First, prepare the owner's ID card, the original vehicle registration certificate, and the driving license, then find a legitimate scrap recycling company. After driving the car there, the staff will inspect and dismantle it, and give you the "Scrap Vehicle Recycling Certificate." Remember to take this certificate and the license plate to the vehicle management office on the same day to apply for deregistration. The vehicle management office will take the license plate and driving license and give you the "Motor Vehicle Deregistration Certificate." The whole process takes about two or three days, and it's crucial to keep the deregistration certificate safe, as it will be needed for buying a new car or updating quotas in the future. It's advisable to call ahead and make an appointment with the recycling company to avoid unnecessary trips. Before scrapping, it's best to clear out all personal belongings and not leave too much fuel in the tank.

Veteran drivers reveal the three core steps of the scrapping process: hand over the vehicle, deregister, and claim subsidies. Drive the car to a designated dismantling facility where they will verify the engine number and VIN, then cut and photograph the body for archiving. Within 48 hours of obtaining the recycling certificate, you must visit the DMV for deregistration—remember to bring your ID card and the original green vehicle registration booklet. Many regions now have online systems where you just fill out a form and wait for approval. If you qualify for the government's old car replacement subsidy policy, you can apply with the deregistration certificate to receive several thousand yuan. Keep the deregistration documents issued by the DMV, as they are essential for handling traffic violations or updating quotas later. Modified vehicles must be restored to their original condition, and any outstanding loans must be cleared first—unresolved issues can cause delays.

Scrapping a car is not just about discarding it. Following the proper procedures benefits everyone: First, contact an environmentally certified dismantling company. They handle waste oil and batteries according to standards to prevent pollution. During handover, double-check the vehicle's document information to avoid errors. After receiving the recycling certificate, immediately go to the DMV to cancel the registration. The entire process takes about a day but resolves lingering issues like traffic violation points and license plate quota occupation. Key reminder: Never sell it as scrap metal for convenience—failure to deregister can lead to legal liabilities. Many cities now have smart recycling points where you can scan a code, upload ID photos, and schedule a towing service.


