Title Check: what a New Hampshire car title really says
No brand, salvage, rebuilt, flood and the other brands this state uses. Each word changes what the car is worth and what you can do with it.
The title is the document that says who owns the car and what serious things have happened to it. Brands and disclosures depend on the issuing jurisdiction’s rules; also review available records from previous states. A branded car can be the right buy at the right price; the problem is paying a no-brand price for one that has a brand.
Title brands and disclosure information in New Hampshire
| Brand or condition | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| No brand | An unbranded title does not establish that there were no accidents, flooding or repairs. Review available records and the car’s condition. | Check odometer and listing history, and get a pre-purchase inspection. |
| Salvage | Total loss: the insurer declared it a total loss from damage or unrecovered theft; for recent cars (model year plus 4 calendar years), when repairs cost 75% or more of the market value before the damage (RSA 261:22, VI). The insurer must apply for the salvage title within 20 days of the total loss payment (RSA 261:22, II). That 75% does not count the cost of repairing, replacing or reinstalling inflatable safety restraints, tires or entertainment systems. It cannot be registered until it passes the DMV salvage inspection. | Not a car to drive; a project. Only at a project price. |
| Rebuilt Vehicle | It was salvage, was repaired and passed the DMV inspection, which checks the VIN and the bills of sale or titles for the major parts. The title and registration say "rebuilt vehicle" and it carries a "salvage vehicle" decal on the left front door post. Removing it is a misdemeanor. | Can be a good buy if the repair was serious. Ask for the adjuster's damage report, the repair receipts and an independent inspection. |
| Recovered Theft | It was stolen, declared a total loss and later recovered; it passed inspection and the NH title shows it. | Check for theft damage (ignition, locks, swapped parts) and that the VIN matches everywhere on the car. |
The law protects you, if you use it
Anyone selling a salvage or rebuilt car must disclose its status and the reason in writing before the sale (RSA 261:22, IV-a). Failing to do so is an unfair or deceptive practice under RSA 358-A:2. If you were not told, or the decal was removed, you can undo the purchase within 3 business days of receiving a title that says salvage or rebuilt (RSA 261:22, V).
How to review the title and available history
- NH DMV: check which title records are available and how to request them.
- NMVTIS: the federal title-history system. Consumer access is through approved providers; report prices and limitations depend on the service.
- NICB VINCheck: thefts and total losses reported by insurers.
- The paper: ask to see the physical title (or the printed electronic one) before handing over money. The VIN on the title must be the car's, and the name the seller's.
Odometer: the other brand
Where an odometer disclosure is required, review the mileage and any notation of unknown mileage or counter limits. Exemptions exist; check current requirements and compare the odometer with maintenance and inspection records.
How much it changes the price
This guide sets no fixed discount and recommends no individual vehicle price. Consider condition, documented repairs, insurance terms and market context, supported by an independent inspection.
From a guide to the individual vehicle
Sources
- RSA 261:22 — Total loss, salvage and rebuilt vehicles
- NH DMV — Salvage and Rebuilt Vehicles
- RSA 261:20 — Fees (salvage vehicle decal, $60 from January 1, 2026)
- NMVTIS — National Motor Vehicle Title Information System
- NICB — VINCheck
- NHTSA — Odometer Fraud
- FTC — Buying a Used Car From a Dealer
This guide informs; it is not legal or financial advice, nor an offer, quote or appraisal. Every figure carries its source and date; check it is still current before you decide.