The Importance of Submitting Titles to NMVTIS and How to Get Started
Sept 15, 2025 - Jonathan Kusowski
The National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) is a federal database designed to protect consumers and businesses from fraud, unsafe vehicles, and illegal activities tied to motor vehicle titling. It was established under the Anti Car Theft Act and is managed by the U.S. Department of Justice. For auto salvage yards, recyclers, junk yards, and insurance carriers, participation in NMVTIS is not optional—it is a legal requirement.
Why Submitting Titles Matters
Every year, millions of vehicles are damaged, scrapped, or deemed a total loss. Without proper reporting, some of these vehicles can re-enter the market with "clean" titles, putting consumers at risk of purchasing unsafe cars. By submitting title information to NMVTIS, facilities help:
- Prevent Fraud and Theft: Reporting ensures that stolen vehicles or fraudulent titles are flagged, protecting buyers and businesses alike.
- Promote Safety: Vehicles deemed junk or salvage are documented, reducing the chance they are rebuilt and resold without proper disclosure.
- Support Law Enforcement: NMVTIS data provides investigators with reliable information about a vehicle's history, aiding in combating crime.
- Ensure Compliance: Federal law requires reporting. Facilities that fail to report can face penalties, fines, and loss of licenses.
For recyclers and salvage yards, compliance is not just about following the law—it is about maintaining industry integrity and protecting customers.
Who Must Report
Under federal law, any entity that handles junk, salvage, or total-loss vehicles must report to NMVTIS. This includes:
- Auto recyclers and dismantlers
- Salvage yards and scrap processors
- Insurance carriers that determine total-loss vehicles
Reports must be submitted on a monthly basis, though many businesses submit more frequently.
What Information Must Be Submitted
The key pieces of information required include:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Date the vehicle was obtained
- Name of the reporting business
- A declaration of whether the vehicle is "junk," "salvage," or "total loss"
This information helps ensure that all vehicles are tracked accurately across states.
How to Sign Up and Report
The Department of Justice has authorized several NMVTIS Reporting Service Providers to help businesses submit data. These providers offer user-friendly online platforms where you can upload your required information quickly and securely.
To sign up:
- Choose a Service Provider: A list of authorized providers is available on the NMVTIS website (www.vehiclehistory.gov). Compare costs and features to determine the best fit for your operation.
- Register Your Business: Create an account with the provider, supplying basic business details and contact information.
- Begin Reporting: Once registered, you can submit title information either through direct entry, batch uploads, or system integration depending on the provider's tools.
Final Thoughts
Submitting titles to NMVTIS is not just a compliance obligation—it is a way to protect consumers, uphold industry standards, and safeguard your business from penalties. By registering with an authorized reporting service and committing to timely submissions, salvage yards and recyclers demonstrate responsibility and integrity in their operations. If you handle junk, salvage, or total-loss vehicles, don't delay—get signed up with an NMVTIS service provider today and stay ahead of the requirements.
