In Alberta there is a mandatory system for reporting salvage and non-repairable vehicles.

Insurance companies and the self-insured have to report these vehicles to Alberta Transportation within six days of making a payout. Reported vehicles then have to undergo a "salvage" inspection from a licensed vehicle inspection station before they can be re-registered. The owner of a salvage vehicle must ensure that the repairs requiring inspection are exposed and have not been painted, coated or covered when it is submitted for inspection.

A salvage vehicle that has passed inspection is then given a special "rebuilt" rating on the vehicle registration form.

Non-Repairable Vehicles

Any vehicle in Alberta that is declared "non-repairable" will not be issued any further certificate of registration. Non-repairable vehicles can only be sold for parts.

Moving to Alberta?

People moving to Alberta or thinking of purchasing a vehicle out of province should be aware of the rules. Any motor vehicle last registered in another jurisdiction will require a safety inspection before it can be registered in Alberta. This ensures that salvage vehicles from out of province are quickly identified and inspected for their roadworthiness.

Caveat Emptor

Before buying a used vehicle, you can find out whether it has been reported to the government as salvage or non-repairable by obtaining a Vehicle Information Report through any one of the more than 229 Alberta Registry Agents. Registry Agents can also advise on the type of inspection required for your vehicle prior to registration.

Need more Information?

For more information on salvage or non-repairable vehicles, call our information line at 1-800-666-5036. Copies of the Motor Vehicle Inspection Regulation can be purchased from the Alberta Government Publication Services: Phone (780) 427-4952 in Edmonton, or toll-free, call 310-0000.