7 Steps to registering a salvaged vehicle

To get a salvage vehicle registered in Alberta, there is a specific process to follow to ensure the vehicle is repaired, inspected, and deemed roadworthy. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on Alberta’s requirements:

1. Verify the Vehicle’s Status
   Before purchasing or repairing the vehicle, visit an Alberta registry agent to confirm its status. A salvage vehicle is one that has been declared “salvage” by an insurance company due to significant damage (e.g., from a collision or natural disaster). Ensure it’s not classified as “non-repairable,” as those cannot be registered and are only good for parts or scrap.
2. Obtain Ownership Documents
   You’ll need proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale or the vehicle’s current registration (if available). This confirms you legally own the vehicle before starting repairs.
3. Download the Rebuilt Vehicle Work Plan
   Alberta requires you to complete a “Rebuilt Vehicle Work Plan” (available online from the Government of Alberta’s website). This document serves as your rebuilding record, detailing the repairs you’ll undertake to bring the vehicle up to safety standards.
4. Repair the Vehicle
   Repairs must meet Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) or Inter-industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) standards, especially for structural components, occupant protection, or collision management systems. Before starting, take four photos of the damaged vehicle (front, rear, left side, right side) for documentation.
5. Schedule Inspections with a Licensed Facility
   Contact an Alberta-licensed Salvage Vehicle Inspection Facility (SVIF) to determine when inspections are required during the repair process. In-progress inspections may be needed, depending on the extent of the damage. Once repairs are complete (but before installing interior trim or undercoating), present the vehicle for a final Salvage Vehicle Inspection. This inspection, which takes about four hours, checks both mechanical fitness and structural integrity.
6. Obtain an Inspection Certificate
   If the vehicle passes the final inspection, the SVIF will issue an Inspection Certificate. This document confirms the vehicle is safe to drive and can have its status changed from “salvage” to “rebuilt.”
7. Register the Vehicle
   Take the Inspection Certificate to an Alberta registry agent within 14 days of issuance (altered or expired certificates are not accepted). You’ll also need:
   • Proof of ownership (e.g., bill of sale).
   • Valid Alberta insurance for the vehicle.
   • Acceptable identification (e.g., driver’s license). The registry agent will update the vehicle’s status to “rebuilt” and complete the registration process, allowing you to legally drive it on Alberta roads.

Additional Notes:

• Timeline: The process hinges on timely submission—don’t delay the final registration step beyond 14 days after the inspection.
• Rebuilt Status: Once registered as “rebuilt,” this branding stays with the vehicle permanently, which may affect its resale value or insurance options.

In conclusion, registering a salvage vehicle in Alberta requires careful attention to detail and adherence to the province’s specific requirements. By following the outlined steps above, you can successfully transition a salvage vehicle to a rebuilt status, making it roadworthy once again. While the process may seem time-consuming, ensuring that all standards are met is crucial for safety and legal compliance. Remember to complete the registration promptly to avoid delays, and be mindful that the “rebuilt” status may influence future resale or insurance considerations. With the right steps, you can give a salvage vehicle a second life on Alberta’s roads!

Thank you,

Your Costen Insurance Team