Reconstructed and homebuilt vehicles
Vehicle title approval process for specially constructed, reconstructed, replica, and street rod vehicles
For vehicles built by a nonrecognized manufacturer or modified beyond their original state, the Iowa Department of Transportation's Motor Vehicle Division's Bureau of Investigation & Identity Protection must inspect the vehicle for compliance with Iowa law and rules along with validating ownership documents. Prior to building or modifying a vehicle, review Iowa Administrative Rules 761 IAC 400.16 and 761 IAC 450.
Required documents
Retain all ownership documents for essential parts used to construct or reconstruct the vehicle and present those to the investigator during the inspection. Essential parts are those that are integral to the vehicle and removal of such parts would conceal the identity of the vehicle or alters its method or mode of operation. These documents may include the following:
• Titles
• Junking certificates
• Bills of sale
• Receipts
A bill of sale or receipt should list the vehicle identification number (VIN) of the original vehicle for any used parts purchased for the vehicle; and the name, address, and telephone number of the seller.