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Junking a car without a title in New York

Lost the title, or never got one in your name? Here's how New York's MV-35 works, and when you need a replacement title instead.

The short answer

New York has a specific form for this: MV-35, Statement of Vehicle Owner Who Does Not Have a Valid Title. If your car is old and low-value, it lets you hand it over for scrap or parts without a title. Otherwise, a replacement title costs $20.

Option 1: form MV-35 (older, low-value cars)

  • The car must be at least eight model years old and worth $1,250 or less.
  • Only the owner can use it: either you bought the car from the titled owner and never titled it in your name, or the title in your name was lost or stolen.
  • You can transfer the car only to a DMV-registered vehicle dismantler, itinerant vehicle collector or certified scrap processor. Not to a private buyer, a tow truck driver or a charity.
  • Attach a copy of your government-issued ID. If someone else delivers the car, they sign as the delivery agent with their own ID.
  • The car can never be titled again; it must be dismantled or scrapped. The business sends the paperwork to the DMV within 15 business days.
  • A false statement on the form is a misdemeanor.

Option 2: replace the title

Apply with form MV-902 and a $20 fee. Bring the application and your original proof of identity to any DMV office, or mail it with photocopies and a check or money order payable to "Commissioner of Motor Vehicles" to the DMV Title Bureau.

Watch out for

  • A tow truck driver offering to "handle the paperwork" with an MV-35. Tow drivers can't claim ownership with the form; the person they got the car from is the owner.
  • Selling a newer or more valuable car without a title. The MV-35 doesn't apply, so get a replacement title first.

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Common questions

Can you junk a car without a title in New York?

Yes, if it's at least eight model years old and worth $1,250 or less. You complete DMV form MV-35 with a copy of your ID and transfer the car to a registered dismantler, itinerant vehicle collector or certified scrap processor. The car can never be titled again.

How much is a replacement title in New York?

$20 with form MV-902, at a DMV office or by mail to the Title Bureau.

Can I give my car to a tow truck driver without a title in New York?

Not with form MV-35. The form can't transfer a car to a tow truck driver, a charity or a private party.

How long does the junkyard have to send in the MV-35?

Within 15 business days after acquiring the vehicle.

Checked against official sources on October 29, 2026. Rules change, so confirm with the agency or business before you act.