Mechanic's and Storage Facility Liens Procedure Procedure

If you own a mechanic or repair facility and a vehicle has been abandoned for over 30 days by a customer after repairs are completed, you may be able to obtain a title for the vehicle to recoup lost expenses. The owner or an authorized agent of the facility must bring the vehicle to the inspection.

You must bring:

• Documentation of all repairs performed

• Records of attempts to contact the owner

• Any other documents outlining your involvement with the vehicle

If the vehicle is not roadworthy, DMV may issue a salvage title, depending on the year of the vehicle. To register the vehicle for on-road use, you must follow the Title Established by Salvage Title Process (DR 2415).  

Important: If a vehicle has been abandoned on private property, the property owner must call a tow truck to remove it. DMV will not issue a title for vehicles abandoned on private property.