Learn how to find a title brand and the conditions that require them. Exercise caution and learn how to protect yourself when purchasing a salvage vehicle.If your vehicle has been wrecked or damaged and insurance declares your vehicle a total loss salvage, California DMV can issue a Salvage Certificate. Learn how to register a salvage title vehicle in California, including what documents are required, where to register your vehicle and more. According to California DMV's website though, to be able to register a salvage title car it has to be rebuilt, brakes and lights inspected, etc. Yes you can legally drive it! If the vehicle has a 'salvage title' it has already been restored and the salvage designation will remain on the title. A vehicle that's still titled as a salvaged vehicle cannot be insured, because it's not legally considered safe to drive. It's legal to sell a vehicle with a salvage title in California. If you have obtained a certified vehicle history from NCDMV and it shows the "salvage" brand on the Certificate of Title you may have a claim.