by Jim Thompson |
Last Updated: January 11, 2021 Specially Constructed Vehicles Defined
Any car not constructed by a licensed manufacturer is considered a “specially constructed” vehicle. Often, these cars are made from parts taken from different manufacturers, and they are composed of different makes and models of other cars. Thus, these cars don’t look or drive like any certain make or model on the market. Some even use homemade parts!
Because of the “special” nature of these specially constructed cars, most state’s DMVs require that these cars have a Specially Constructed Vehicle title.
Note: Just because a vehicle is made from parts of all one manufacturer (say Toyota, for example), if the car was constructed by an unlicensed manufacturer or individual, it still qualifies as a specially constructed vehicle. Also, cars made with various vehicle kits, glider kits, or assembled from many different manufacturers or homemade parts all count as specially constructed vehicles!
If you’re not sure whether or not you’re purchasing a “specially constructed vehicle” or not (for example, you may have a customized car that still comes from the manufacturer), talk to your mechanic, your insurance company, or a representative at the DMV BEFORE purchasing the vehicle!
How Do I Apply for a Specially Constructed Vehicle Title?
This depends on what state you live in. However, below is a list of steps often involved in the process of requesting a specially constructed vehicle title:
- Fill out the paperwork
- Although this varies by state as well, you’ll often need two applications:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) application
- Title and Registration application
- Although this varies by state as well, you’ll often need two applications:
- Verify Your Address
- This often requires approved documentation, such as
- W-2 form
- Voter registration card
- Driver’s license
- Payroll stub from your employer
- Utility bill
- Lease or deed or mortgage
- Bank statement (current)
- This often requires approved documentation, such as
- Verify that You Own the Car
- You will need a bill of sale to prove that you own:
- The frame
- The cab or gilder kits
- The body
- The engine and drive train
- The transmission and front-end assembly (for motorcycles!)
- Proof of salvage title (if the car is a salvage!)
- You will need a bill of sale to prove that you own:
- Notarized Statement of Construction
- Some states require a notarized written statement outlining how the car was constructed
- You may be required to provide pictures of at least the front and back of your vehicle
- Pay for the Title
- Payment for the title could include feed for the:
- VIN plate
- Inspection (to ensure the car is in working order and to test emissions)
- Title
- Registration
- Sales tax
- Payment for the title could include feed for the:
Remember: When you’re done with all of your forms and documentation, you can bring these documents to the DMV to apply for the title!