The short answer
Yes, for an old, dead car. Under Missouri Revised Statutes section 301.227, a licensed scrap metal operator can buy a vehicle without a title if it's inoperable and at least 10 model years old.
What counts as inoperable
A car that's rusted, wrecked, discarded, worn out, extensively damaged, dismantled and mechanically inoperative, where the best use is scrap. A running car doesn't qualify.
How the sale works
- The operator checks the Department of Revenue's records to confirm no lien is recorded. That check isn't required for cars 20 or more model years old.
- You give the operator a copy of your state ID and sign the Department of Revenue's bill of sale, certifying the car's age and condition, that it has no lien, and that you have the legal right to sell it.
- The operator sends those to the Department of Revenue and keeps records for three years.
Newer or running cars
Without the 10-year, inoperable test, a scrap operator needs the original title, a salvage title or a junking certificate. Get the title replaced first.
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Common questions
Can you junk a car without a title in Missouri?
Yes, if it's inoperable and at least 10 model years old. The scrap operator checks for liens (not required for 20+ model years), and you provide a copy of your state ID and sign the Department of Revenue's bill of sale.
What if my car still runs?
The no-title route only covers inoperable vehicles. For a running or newer car, the buyer needs the title, a salvage title or a junking certificate.
Checked against official sources on October 29, 2026. Rules change, so confirm with the agency or business before you act.