Which document does your vehicle have?
Read the document heading and disclose it to the buyer. A damaged car does not automatically have a salvage certificate, and a mechanical failure does not by itself tell you the title status. Keep the insurer’s settlement documents separate from the ownership certificate.
When is Form MV-6 used?
PennDOT uses MV-6 for nonrepairable or salvage certificate applications and for duplicate salvage certificates. Its instructions identify the eligible applicant and the ownership document that must accompany the application. Follow the correct application block; an ordinary owner sale should not be relabeled as salvage merely to avoid a missing title.
Can a nonrepairable vehicle return to the road?
No. MV-6 states that a vehicle issued a nonrepairable certificate may be used only for parts or scrap and may not receive a title or salvage certificate. A salvage vehicle has a different status; do not advertise it as road-ready on the strength of a salvage certificate.
What should you tell the purchasing partner?
Describe collision, flood or fire damage, missing components and whether the wheels move. Confirm whether you or an insurer owns the vehicle following any settlement. Provide the certificate type before pickup and retain the transfer record. If you are still deciding whether to retain an insurance total loss, obtain the insurer’s paperwork instructions before selling.
Official sources.
Sources reviewed September 25, 2026. Use the current instructions for your vehicle and transaction.