Claiming and insuring an abandoned car isn’t just a matter of towing it home and heading to the DMV. It’s a legal process with timelines that you’ll need to follow to register the vehicle. State laws determine when a vehicle is considered abandoned, who can claim it and what you should do to get the title in your name for the deserted car.
When is a vehicle considered abandoned?
A vehicle is typically considered abandoned when it’s left on public or private property for a specified period without the clear intent to retrieve it.
Each state has its own definition of an abandoned vehicle. For instance, in Virginia, a vehicle is considered abandoned if:
- It has been left unattended on public property for more than 48 hours, in violation of state and local law.
- It has been parked on private property for more than 48 hours without the owner’s permission.
- It was left unattended on the shoulder of a primary highway.
Once a vehicle meets your state’s definition of abandoned, law enforcement or the local authority can tag it, tow it, and eventually auction or scrap it if the owner doesn’t claim it in time.
Can you get a title in your name for an abandoned car?
Depending on your state laws, you can get the title of an abandoned car in your name by going through a legal process.
If a car is left on a public road or your property and appears abandoned, you are typically required to report it to local law enforcement and refrain from moving it yourself. They decide whether it’s truly abandoned and have it towed and stored.
Once the vehicle is in the system, law enforcement officials will attempt to identify and notify the last titled owner and any lienholder, then wait the required number of days. If no one claims it, the car is usually sold at a public auction. That auction buyer then gets paperwork to apply for a title.
In some states, if the car is left on your private property, you must obtain a court order to be able to get the vehicle titled in your name.
Steps to legally claim an abandoned car
If you want to claim ownership of an abandoned vehicle, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Check state laws: Visit your state’s DMV website to confirm how they define an abandoned vehicle and who is eligible to claim it.
- Gather vehicle details: Before reporting anything, note the exact location, make and model, color, plate number and any apparent damage or signs of neglect, such as flat tires, missing wheels, broken glass or rust.
- Report the car as abandoned: Contact your local law enforcement officials and file a report for an abandoned vehicle. They’ll tag the car, attempt to identify the owner and decide whether it will be towed, stored or sold at auction.
- Wait out the legal notice period: There’s usually a set waiting period during which the owner or lienholder can come forward, pay fees and reclaim the car. If no one responds within that window, the state may authorize the transfer of ownership or sell the vehicle at auction.
- Buy the car at auction, if applicable: Some states only allow you to claim the abandoned vehicle by purchasing it at a public auction. If you’re the winning bidder, you’ll get a bill of sale and official paperwork.
- Apply for a new title in your name: Take the auction bill of sale or transfer-authorization paperwork, proof of notices sent, inspection report and fee receipts to the DMV.
Once the DMV issues a title, you still need to pay the title/registration fees, as well as any due taxes. Register the car, get plates and purchase at least your state’s minimum required auto insurance before you drive it on public roads.
Speak with a friendly agent and get your quote in minutes!
How to get car insurance after registering the abandoned car in your name
Once the abandoned vehicle is legally titled in your name, treat it like any other used car. Start by making sure it’s roadworthy and complete any required safety or emissions inspections.
When shopping for car insurance, get multiple quotes and be upfront about the vehicle’s title status, as some insurers offer limited coverage for those with salvage or rebuilt titles. Choose at least your state’s minimum liability coverage or full coverage for adequate protection.
When you should not claim an abandoned car
You should avoid claiming an abandoned vehicle if it’s severely damaged or if the repair costs exceed its value. It’s also best to walk away if the vehicle has signs of being stolen, has significant loans and pending fees or if the legal process seems unclear or overly complicated in your area.
In these situations, attempting to claim the vehicle can lead to legal issues, unexpected expenses or disputes that are simply not worth the risk.
Frequently Asked Questions: Abandoned vehicles
Can I claim an abandoned car left on my property?
You can claim an abandoned car left on your property, depending on your state or local laws.
In some states, if you have a car abandoned on your property, you must first contact your local law enforcement officials, as each area has different rules regarding this matter.
Some law enforcement agencies will come to your property and remove the vehicle; others will ask you to locate the owner yourself and contact them as the car is abandoned on your property. If local law enforcement will not remove the vehicle, you would need legal advice and possibly a court-ordered title to be put in your name.
How long does it take to register an abandoned car?
It depends on your state laws, but expect it to take several weeks to a few months.
In most places, you first file an abandoned-vehicle report, have the car inspected and submit forms and fees to the DMV. Then, there’s a legal waiting period while the state notifies the last registered owner and any lienholders, giving them a chance to claim the vehicle. If no one responds, the state can approve the transfer and then only you can register the car in your name.
Key takeaways on registering and insuring an abandoned vehicle
An abandoned vehicle can take up space, create legal headaches and even affect your insurance. And the process for claiming ownership isn’t always simple, and it usually depends on your state’s laws. Before taking any steps, it’s essential to understand what legally qualifies as an abandoned vehicle and the options available for dealing with one.
Sources
- J.D. Power. “How To Get An Abandoned Vehicle Title.” Accessed November 2025.
- Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. “Abandoned Vehicle Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).” Accessed November 2025.
Still have a question? Ask our experts
Get advice from an experienced insurance professional. Our experts will help you navigate your insurance questions with clarity and confidence.
Browse all FAQs
