REG 479 Form – If you operate a salvage pool or hold a DMV occupational license in California and handle abandoned vehicles from total loss insurance claims, the REG 479 form is your required tool. This specialized application allows eligible licensees to request a Salvage Certificate or Nonrepairable Vehicle Certificate for vehicles deemed abandoned after proper notifications.
The California DMV provides the latest REG 479 PDF (revision NEW 2/2025) for free download. Use it to comply with California Vehicle Code (CVC) §11515.3 and legally transfer ownership of these vehicles.
What Is the REG 479 Form?
The REG 479, officially titled Abandoned Vehicle Application for Salvage Certificate or Nonrepairable Vehicle Certificate, is a DMV form designed exclusively for salvage pools (CVC §543) and DMV occupational licensees.
It applies when:
- A vehicle is declared a total loss by an insurance company.
- The insurer authorizes possession but does not take ownership.
- The vehicle is abandoned on the licensee’s lot after required notices to the registered owner, legal owner, and lienholders go unanswered.
Unlike the standard REG 488C (used by vehicle owners or insurers for regular total-loss vehicles), REG 479 handles the unique “abandoned” scenario under CVC §11515.3. Once approved, the DMV issues a branded certificate that limits the vehicle’s future use.
Who Needs to File REG 479?
- Salvage pool operators
- DMV-licensed occupational licensees
- Businesses that tow, store, or process total-loss vehicles on behalf of insurance companies
Note: Individual vehicle owners or insurance companies use REG 488C instead. REG 479 is strictly for industry professionals dealing with abandoned vehicles.
Why File REG 479? Purpose and Legal Requirements?
Under CVC §11515.3, licensees must:
- Send two certified notices (first notice + 30 days; second notice + 14 days; plus 30 extra days if the owner contacts them).
- Document everything.
- Apply for the certificate once the vehicle is legally deemed abandoned.
The form certifies that all notifications were properly sent, license plates were handled, and the licensee indemnifies the DMV. Declaring a vehicle nonrepairable is irreversible—it can never be titled or registered for road use in California.
Step-by-Step: How to Complete the REG 479 Form?
The form is straightforward and divided into seven clear sections. Here’s exactly what to include (based on the official 2025 PDF instructions):
Section 1 – Vehicle Subject to Total Loss Claim
- VIN, license plate number, registration expiration
- Make, year/model
- Date and location of total loss
Section 2 – Insurance Company
- Name, NAIC number, claim number
- Addresses and exact locations where possession was taken and where the vehicle is currently abandoned
Section 3 – Notifications
- List every party notified (registered/legal owner, lienholders) with full addresses
- Dates of first and second certified notices (mark “RU” if returned undeliverable)
- For out-of-state vehicles, note the jurisdiction contacted
- Attach extra pages if needed (record total Section 3 pages)
Section 4 – Application for Salvage Certificate
- Your business name, occupational license number
- Date vehicle came into possession and current vehicle value
- Business and mailing addresses
Section 5 – Application for Nonrepairable Vehicle Certificate (optional)
- Same details as Section 4
- Check condition: Surgical, Strip, Burned, Hulk, or Parts/Scrap Metal (No Resale Value)
Section 6 – Certification of License Plate Disposition
- Number of plates found (Two / One / None)
- Indicate if destroyed, surrendered to DMV, or other (explain)
Section 7 – Certification (Signed Under Penalty of Perjury)
- Confirm insurance company’s instructions and your compliance with CVC §11515.3
- Agree to indemnify the Director of Motor Vehicles
- Provide authorized agent’s printed name, title, phone, email, signature, and date
Tip: Keep copies of all notices, proofs of delivery, and records. Incomplete information may delay or reject your application.
Required Fees and Submission Process
- Salvage Certificate fee: $28 (original or replacement) as of 2026.
- Submit the completed REG 479, supporting documents (notices, proof of delivery), and payment to the California DMV.
- Occupational licensees may use the Virtual Field Office (VFO) system to post fees and generate transmittals electronically for faster processing.
Contact DMV Customer Service at 1-800-777-0133 for questions.
Download the Official REG 479 PDF (Free & Current)
Direct Download Link (2025 Revision):
REG-479-N2-2025-ASB-WWW.pdf
This is the exact form hosted on the official California DMV website. Always download directly from dmv.ca.gov to ensure you have the latest version.
Related DMV Forms You May Need:
- REG 488C – Standard Salvage/Nonrepairable Application
- REG 343 – Application for Title or Registration (for revived salvage vehicles later)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can regular vehicle owners use REG 479?
No. Owners and insurance companies use REG 488C. REG 479 is only for salvage pools and licensed operators handling abandoned vehicles.
Q: What happens if I declare the vehicle nonrepairable?
It becomes irreversible. The vehicle cannot be titled or registered for highway use in California ever again.
Q: How long do I have to file after the vehicle is abandoned?
File as soon as the legal notice periods expire and the vehicle is deemed abandoned per CVC §11515.3.
Q: Where do I mail the completed REG 479?
Follow instructions on the form or use your occupational licensee portal/VFO system. Contact DMV for exact mailing address.
Final Tips for Fast Approval
- Double-check all addresses and notice dates.
- Include proof of certified mailing/delivery.
- Surrender or properly document license plates.
- Maintain records for at least the required retention period.
For the most current information, always visit the official California DMV page: Abandoned Vehicle Application for Salvage Certificate – REG 479.
Need the form right now? Click the download link above and start processing your abandoned total-loss vehicles today—legally and efficiently.
This guide is based exclusively on current California DMV resources and Vehicle Code as of April 2026. Laws and fees can change; verify directly with the DMV before submitting.