What is a Certificate of Title? US vehicle documents explained

When buying a car from the United States, Canada or other English-speaking countries, you will encounter a document called the Certificate of Title. It is the most important vehicle document — without a certified sworn translation, you cannot register the car in Poland. Here is everything you need to know.

What is a Certificate of Title?

A Certificate of Title is an official document issued by a US state authority or Canadian province confirming legal ownership of a vehicle. It is the equivalent of the Polish vehicle registration Part II (or German Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil II).

Most common entries in US Certificate of Title

38 entries • vehicle ownership document • registration in Poland • practical tips

Registration possible

Possible with difficulty

Impossible

Verification required

Click a row to see details

Registration possible

With difficulty

Impossible

Verify

Title type	Translation EN	Description	Registration PL
Registration in Poland possible
Clean Title	Clean title	Best possible vehicle history. No total loss, no lien, no theft. Still always order CarFax (~$40) — private repairs don't appear in the title registry.	YES
Clean Title What it means Vehicle never declared a total loss. No record of theft, flooding, fire or active lien. Most desirable title for import. Risks and notes Clean Title does not guarantee accident-free history Always order CarFax or AutoCheck Check Lienholder field — should be empty or None/N/A Verify VIN in NICB database Registration in Poland Standard inspection — no OSKP Sworn translation of Certificate of Title required GIOŚ opinion straightforward for Euro 4+ ADL tip: Even with Clean Title, consider US inspection (approx. $150–200) — especially for vehicles over $10,000.
Clear Title	Title free of encumbrances	No active bank lien. Check the Lienholder field on the title — should be empty or show None/N/A.	YES
Clear Title What it means No active lien on the vehicle. Seller has full ownership rights. Often used interchangeably with Clean Title. Risks and notes Check Lienholder field carefully Can coexist with accident history — check CarFax Registration in Poland Standard registration Sworn translation of title required No OSKP needed ADL tip: Clear Title is a good sign, but always verify complete vehicle history via CarFax.
Rebuilt Title	Rebuilt title	Repaired salvage, road-approved after state inspection. Best option when importing a damaged vehicle — repair documentation available. Names vary: TX 'Rebuilt Salvage', GA 'Reconstructed'.	YES
Rebuilt Title What it means Vehicle had Salvage Title but was professionally repaired and passed state technical inspection. One of the best titles when buying a previously damaged vehicle. Risks and notes Repair quality depends on state and workshop — verify documentation Possible insurance issues in Poland Check which parts replaced — A/B/C pillars, floor, sills Registration in Poland OSKP inspection mandatory GIOŚ emissions opinion Sworn translation of title and Bill of Sale Individual homologation if no EU type approval ADL tip: Rebuilt with repair documentation often a great deal. OSKP may challenge weld quality — order inspection before registration.
Reconstructed	Reconstructed	Identical status to Rebuilt — used in states GA, VA and others. In sworn translation: reconstructed vehicle.	YES
Reconstructed What it means Vehicle with Reconstructed title (Reconstructed vehicle) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Reconstructed we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Hail Damage	Hail damage	Purely cosmetic hail dents — engine, electronics and structure intact. Inexpensive PDR repair. Tornado alley states (TX, OK, KS) produce a disproportionate number of these vehicles.	YES
Hail Damage What it means Vehicle suffered exclusively hail damage. Mechanics and electronics untouched — only cosmetic body dents. Risks and notes Cosmetic damage only — no effect on mechanics Unrepaired dents reduce resale value Check if windows are cracked Registration in Poland Standard procedure — no OSKP Sworn translation of title Polish technical inspection straightforward ADL tip: PDR (Paintless Dent Repair) costs 200–800 PLN per panel in Poland. Hail-damaged car bought cheap and repaired with PDR — often excellent investment.
Revived Salvage	Revived salvage	California equivalent of Rebuilt Title — passed CHP (California Highway Patrol) inspection. Stricter requirements than most states. Good documentation for OSKP inspection in Poland.	YES
Revived Salvage What it means Vehicle with Revived Salvage title (Revived Salvage (California)) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Revived Salvage we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Registration possible with difficulty — repair or additional documents required
Salvage Title	Salvage title	Insurer declared repair uneconomical (75-80% threshold). Registration after repair and OSKP inspection. GIOS risk — NSA rulings 2023-2024 improving situation. Repair in Poland 2-3x cheaper than in the USA.	YES
Salvage Title What it means Insurer declared repair costs as exceeding vehicle value (usually over 75%). Condition varies greatly — from slightly damaged to severely wrecked. Risks and notes GIOŚ — rejection risk for V8 or non-Euro 4 OSKP — negative if safety cage deformed Hidden structural damage not visible in auction photos Comprehensive insurance difficult in Poland Registration in Poland OSKP inspection mandatory GIOŚ emissions opinion Individual homologation if no EU type approval Sworn translation of title and Bill of Sale High-risk states Florida / Texas — flood states Louisiana / North Carolina — frequent flooding ADL tip: Repair in Poland 2–3× cheaper than USA. Avoid vehicles with A/B/C pillar and floor damage — OSKP will refuse registration.
Salvage Certificate	Salvage certificate	Equivalent to Salvage Title in some states. Identical consequences — treat the same when assessing import and registration.	YES
Salvage Certificate What it means Vehicle with Salvage Certificate title (Salvage damage certificate) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Salvage Certificate we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Prior Salvage	Prior salvage	Vehicle previously had Salvage Title but was rebuilt. Verify VIN via CarFax — check quality and scope of the rebuild.	YES
Prior Salvage What it means Vehicle with Prior Salvage title (Prior salvage status) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Prior Salvage we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Salvage Retention	Salvage retention	Owner bought wreck back from insurer after payout. Vehicle gets Salvage Title. Common when owner wants to repair the vehicle themselves.	YES
Salvage Retention What it means Vehicle with Salvage Retention title (Owner retained vehicle) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Salvage Retention we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Owner Retained	Owner retained	Same as Salvage Retention. Title may not contain 'Salvage' — legally identical. Check whether repairs were made.	YES
Owner Retained What it means Vehicle with Owner Retained title (Owner kept vehicle) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Owner Retained we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Total Loss	Total loss	Formal insurer determination — triggers issuance of Salvage Title. Entry in auction documentation means vehicle has or will have a Salvage Title.	YES
Total Loss What it means Vehicle with Total Loss title (Total loss) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Total Loss we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Insurance Loss	Insurance loss	Documentary equivalent of Total Loss. Appears in CarFax reports and auction docs. Treat like Salvage Title.	YES
Insurance Loss What it means Vehicle with Insurance Loss title (Insurance loss) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Insurance Loss we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Flood Damage	Flood damage	One of the riskier designations. Electronics corrosion and mould can appear 2-3 years later. Special risk: SRS airbag module. After Harvey (TX 2017) and Ian (FL 2022) hundreds of thousands on the market.	YES
Flood Damage What it means Variant of Flood Title — vehicle suffered water damage but title may not yet be updated. Practically identical risks. Risks and notes Electronics corrosion after 2–3 years Mold and moisture in cabin Underbody corrosion Registration in Poland OSKP and electrical inspection required Sworn translation of documents required (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) ADL tip: Flood Damage without Flood Title may mean damage was not reported to insurer. Check NICB regardless of title status.
Flood Title	Flood title	Like Flood Damage with formal title. Avoid vehicles where flooding reached above the dashboard. Commission specialist electronics inspection before purchase.	YES
Flood Title What it means Vehicle was submerged or severely flooded. One of the most risky title types — damage may only appear after 2–3 years of use. Risks and notes Wiring harness corrosion — symptoms after 2–3 years Mold in upholstery, carpets, A/C Corrosion of ABS sensors, airbag controllers, ECU Rust on underbody, sills, floor DSG/CVT transmission failures after flooding Registration in Poland OSKP required Electrical inspection by expert GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of documents required (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) High-risk states Florida — Hurricane Ian 2022 (~300,000 vehicles) Texas — Hurricane Harvey 2017 (~500,000 vehicles) Louisiana — Ida 2021, Katrina 2005 South Carolina — Florence 2018 ADL tip: Flooding above dashboard — strongly not recommended. Always order independent electrical inspection. Check under carpets and behind dashboard — mud residue.
Water Damage	Water damage	Broader term — flooding from rain, river, faulty AC or leaky roof. Damage ranges from minimal to severe.	YES
Water Damage What it means Vehicle suffered water damage — could be rain, garage flooding or river. Damage extent varies greatly: from minimal to severe. Risks and notes Damage extent hard to assess without physical inspection Electrics and electronics particularly at risk Mold with high cabin humidity Registration in Poland OSKP required Electrical inspection recommended Sworn translation of documents required (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) ADL tip: Water Damage generally less serious than Flood Title — but always requires inspection. Check VIN weather history.
Recovered Theft	Recovered theft	Condition from nearly untouched to stripped for parts. Check completeness, locks and alarm. CarFax shows theft and recovery dates.	YES
Recovered Theft What it means Vehicle was stolen and recovered. Condition varies greatly — from nearly untouched to completely stripped for parts. Risks and notes Stolen vehicles often stripped for parts Damaged ignition lock, steering column, immobilizer Missing interior parts (audio, airbags, seats) Paint and window damage Registration in Poland OSKP required VIN verification by Polish police Sworn translation of title High-risk states Most common theft states: California, Texas, Florida Popular targets: Honda Civic, Toyota Camry, catalytic converter thefts ADL tip: Check via NICB VINCheck that vehicle is not still listed as stolen. Order physical inspection in USA — assess completeness of equipment.
Theft Recovery	Theft recovery	Like Recovered Theft — used interchangeably. Thieves often strip vehicles for parts — verify completeness before purchase.	YES
Theft Recovery What it means Synonym for Recovered Theft — vehicle stolen and recovered. Identical risks and registration procedures. Risks and notes Same as Recovered Theft — check equipment completeness Verify VIN in NICB before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP required Sworn translation ADL tip: Treat identically to Recovered Theft. Physical inspection before purchase is mandatory.
Lemon Law Buyback	Lemon law buyback	Manufacturer bought back after 3-4 failed repairs of the same fault. Defect may still be present — find out what it was before purchase.	YES
Lemon Law Buyback What it means Manufacturer repurchased vehicle under Lemon Law. Applies when same defect occurred at least 3–4 times within 2 years or 24,000 miles. Risks and notes Defect may still exist May not appear in CarFax if repaired at dealership Possible electronics or transmission issues Registration in Poland Possible — OSKP and GIOŚ required Independent inspection recommended Sworn translation required ADL tip: Check NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) complaints for model and year. Lemon Law often covers specific serial defects — the issue is identifiable.
Manufacturer Buyback	Manufacturer buyback	Voluntary buyback without formal Lemon Law. May involve serious safety defects. Check the NHTSA complaints database.	YES
Manufacturer Buyback What it means Manufacturer repurchased vehicle due to serious factory defects — similar to Lemon Law but often at manufacturer's initiative or through legal settlement. Risks and notes Serious factory defect — check NHTSA database May involve safety (airbags, brakes, suspension) Detailed repair history in documentation Registration in Poland OSKP and GIOŚ required Sworn translation ADL tip: Check NHTSA recall database for active recalls on this model. Manufacturer Buyback often involves a serious safety issue.
Warranty Return	Warranty return	Returned under warranty due to serious technical problems. Find out what the warranty covered and whether the fault was fixed.	YES
Warranty Return What it means Vehicle with Warranty Return title (Warranty return) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Warranty Return we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Mileage Exempt	Mileage exempt	Legal for vehicles over 10 years — does not automatically mean rollback. However, often exploited by dishonest sellers. Always verify via CarFax.	YES
Mileage Exempt What it means Vehicle with Mileage Exempt title (Mileage exempt) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Mileage Exempt we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
TMU - True Mileage Unknown	True mileage unknown	True Mileage Unknown — common at Copart/IAAI for older vehicles or after odometer failure. Price conservatively with a pessimistic mileage estimate.	YES
TMU - True Mileage Unknown What it means Vehicle with TMU - True Mileage Unknown title (True mileage unknown) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For TMU - True Mileage Unknown we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Biohazard	Biohazard	Contaminated with blood or human remains. Specialist decontamination required. May cause legal import issues — disclose to translator.	YES
Biohazard What it means Vehicle with Biohazard title (Biohazard) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Biohazard we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Police Vehicle	Police vehicle	Intensive service use. Engine usually well-maintained, but suspension, brakes and gearbox may be heavily worn.	YES
Police Vehicle What it means Vehicle with Police Vehicle title (Former police vehicle) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Police Vehicle we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Taxi	Taxi	Very intensive urban use — often 300,000+ km at purchase. Interior and upholstery heavily worn. Check suspension and steering.	YES
Taxi What it means Vehicle with Taxi title (Former taxi) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Taxi we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Fleet Vehicle	Fleet vehicle	Company fleet vehicle — usually regularly serviced but fleet drivers often care less than private owners. Check service history.	YES
Fleet Vehicle What it means Vehicle with Fleet Vehicle title (Fleet vehicle) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Fleet Vehicle we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Gray Market	Gray market	Outside official US distribution. Possible homologation and parts availability issues. Check emission standards before purchase.	YES
Gray Market What it means Vehicle with Gray Market title (Gray market) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Gray Market we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Salt Water Damage	Salt water damage	Salt water flooding — more destructive than fresh water. Salt accelerates electronics and structural corrosion many times over. Common after hurricanes on Florida and North Carolina coasts.	YES
Salt Water Damage What it means Vehicle with Salt Water Damage title (Salt water damage) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Salt Water Damage we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Vandalism	Vandalism	Deliberate damage by third parties — windows, paintwork, interior. Damage extent varies. CarFax may show date and location of the reported incident.	YES
Vandalism What it means Vehicle with Vandalism title (Vandalism) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Vandalism we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Collision	Collision	Vehicle was in a reported collision — reported to insurer or DMV. Doesn't mean total loss. Estimated 30-40% of collisions are not reported — CarFax is not everything.	YES
Collision What it means Vehicle with Collision title (Collision damage) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Collision we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Original Police	Original police	Vehicle currently registered as a police vehicle in the USA. On import to Poland: former police vehicle status. Engine usually well-serviced, check suspension and brakes especially.	YES
Original Police What it means Vehicle with Original Police title (Active police vehicle) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Original Police we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Prior Police	Prior police	Was registered as police vehicle — identical recommendations to Police Vehicle. Check service documentation from service period — regularly serviced police cars can be better than neglected civilian ones.	YES
Prior Police What it means Vehicle with Prior Police title (Former police vehicle) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Prior Police we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Original Taxi	Original taxi	Vehicle currently registered as a taxi. On import will have former taxi status. Very intensive urban use — verify mileage via CarFax/NAP.	YES
Original Taxi What it means Vehicle with Original Taxi title (Active taxi) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Original Taxi we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Hazardous	Hazardous	Contaminated with hazardous substance — unlike Biohazard (biological): chemicals, explosives or radioactive materials. May require specialist decontamination or be unfit for use.	YES
Hazardous What it means Vehicle with Hazardous title (Hazardous material) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Hazardous we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Antique	Antique	Vehicle over 50 years old — exempt from many safety and emission requirements. In Poland registration as a historic vehicle (Road Traffic Law art. 73). Different customs procedure — consult an agency.	YES
Antique What it means Vehicle with Antique title (Antique vehicle) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Antique we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Classic	Classic	Vehicle over 20 years meeting additional state criteria — reduced requirements. In Poland normal registration or historic vehicle (after 30 years from production). Check production date.	YES
Classic What it means Vehicle with Classic title (Classic vehicle) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Classic we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Street Rod	Street rod	Vehicle modified away from manufacturer specs — classic hot rod or custom car. Homologation in Poland very difficult — may not meet EU safety standards. Consult an expert before purchase.	YES
Street Rod What it means Vehicle with Street Rod title (Street rod) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Street Rod we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Replica	Replica	Built as stylistic copy of another vehicle from another year/brand. Not original brand or model. Homologation in Poland very difficult — VIN comes from original frame. Check documents before purchase.	YES
Replica What it means Vehicle with Replica title (Replica) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Replica we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Test Vehicle	Test vehicle	Built and retained by manufacturer for testing — never sold as new. Service history may be incomplete or confidential. Registration possible but complicated — requires thorough verification.	YES
Test Vehicle What it means Vehicle with Test Vehicle title (Test vehicle) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Test Vehicle we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Refurbished	Refurbished	Modified by installing new cab/chassis on existing body — mainly buses and special vehicles. Registration in Poland requires homologation verification of individual components.	YES
Refurbished What it means Vehicle with Refurbished title (Refurbished vehicle) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Refurbished we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Remanufactured	Remanufactured	Rebuilt directly by the manufacturer — differs from Rebuilt (independent workshops). Manufacturer may have replaced key components. Check what the remanufacturing involved before purchase.	YES
Remanufactured What it means Vehicle with Remanufactured title (Remanufactured vehicle) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Remanufactured we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Kit Vehicle	Kit vehicle	Built from one chassis and parts from others — VIN comes from donor chassis. Homologation in Poland very difficult or impossible. Consult an expert before purchase.	YES
Kit Vehicle What it means Vehicle with Kit Vehicle title (Kit vehicle) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Kit Vehicle we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Reissued VIN	Reissued VIN	Same VIN reissued — may be a legal state procedure or signal VIN cloning. Mandatory verification via NMVTIS and physical check of the vehicle's identification plate.	YES
Reissued VIN What it means Vehicle with Reissued VIN title (Reissued VIN) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Reissued VIN we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Bond Posted	Bond posted	Insurance issued bond as ownership could not be proven — allows sale and title issuance. Only valid for vehicles titled before January 17, 2003. Rarely encountered.	YES
Bond Posted What it means Vehicle with Bond Posted title (Bond posted) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Bond Posted we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Memorandum Copy	Memorandum copy	Document is a copy (facsimile), not an active title. Requires verification of original title at issuing DMV. Polish customs will not accept a copy without the original.	YES
Memorandum Copy What it means Vehicle with Memorandum Copy title (Memorandum copy) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Memorandum Copy we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Salvage: Stolen	Salvage: stolen	Vehicle was stolen and insurer paid the owner — Salvage status due to theft. Vehicle may be incomplete or damaged. Check CarFax in detail — was it recovered and in what condition.	YES
Salvage: Stolen What it means Vehicle with Salvage: Stolen title (Salvage: stolen) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Salvage: Stolen we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Agricultural Vehicle	Agricultural vehicle	Primarily for private agricultural roads — exempt from many state registration requirements. In Poland can be registered as agricultural vehicle, not as passenger car.	YES
Agricultural Vehicle What it means Vehicle with Agricultural Vehicle title (Agricultural vehicle) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Agricultural Vehicle we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Logging Vehicle	Logging vehicle	Primarily for private logging roads — exempt from many registration requirements. Similar to Agricultural Vehicle — limited road registration options in Poland.	YES
Logging Vehicle What it means Vehicle with Logging Vehicle title (Logging vehicle) requires special attention when importing to Poland. Risks and notes Verify vehicle history via CarFax Possible additional registration requirements in Poland Expert consultation before purchase Registration in Poland OSKP may be required GIOŚ opinion standard Sworn translation of title required ADL tip: For Logging Vehicle we recommend detailed inspection and document verification before purchasing.
Registration impossible — vehicle classified as waste or permanent ban
Fire Damage	Fire damage	Fire permanently destroys wiring, tank and structure. OSKP usually refuses approval. Special risk with EVs — Li-Ion batteries can spontaneously ignite weeks after the incident.	YES
Fire Damage What it means Vehicle with Fire Damage title (Fire damage) — permanently withdrawn from road traffic. Risks and notes Registration impossible in Poland or USA OSKP refuses inspection Vehicle insurance unavailable Registration in Poland Registration impossible Purchase only for spare parts Sworn translation of documents required (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) ADL tip: Purchase only for spare parts or as a display piece.
Non-Repairable	Non-repairable	Permanent state registration ban even after full repair (CA, TX, OR). Customs will refuse clearance — vehicle classified as waste.	YES
Non-Repairable What it means Vehicle declared non-repairable by state DMV. Damage so extensive that repair is technically impossible. Risks and notes Registration impossible in USA or Poland OSKP refuses inspection No vehicle insurance possible Registration in Poland Registration impossible Purchase only for parts Sworn translation of documents required (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) ADL tip: Non-Repairable on Copart/IAAI is a cheap parts vehicle. Check engine and gearbox condition before buying.
Non-Repairable Vehicle Certificate	Non-repairable certificate	Formal certificate — identical consequences to Non-Repairable. Vehicle may be sold for parts in USA, but cannot be imported to Poland as a vehicle.	YES
Non-Repairable Vehicle Certificate What it means Vehicle with Non-Repairable Vehicle Certificate title (Non-repairable certificate) — permanently withdrawn from road traffic. Risks and notes Registration impossible in Poland or USA OSKP refuses inspection Vehicle insurance unavailable Registration in Poland Registration impossible Purchase only for spare parts Sworn translation of documents required (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) ADL tip: Purchase only for spare parts or as a display piece.
Irreparable	Irreparable	Equivalent to Non-Repairable in some states. Permanent road ban — even after complete physical rebuilding.	YES
Irreparable What it means Vehicle with Irreparable title (Irreparable) — permanently withdrawn from road traffic. Risks and notes Registration impossible in Poland or USA OSKP refuses inspection Vehicle insurance unavailable Registration in Poland Registration impossible Purchase only for spare parts Sworn translation of documents required (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) ADL tip: Purchase only for spare parts or as a display piece.
Junk Title	Junk title	Do not confuse with Salvage Title — a fundamental difference. After a Junk Certificate (IL 625 ILCS 5/3-117.1) the vehicle can NEVER again receive a title enabling registration.	YES
Junk Title What it means Vehicle permanently withdrawn from traffic. DMV issues Junk Title when owner or junkyard submits for scrapping. Risks and notes Return to road is a federal crime Poland: GIOŚ opinion impossible OSKP refuses inspection Insurers refuse vehicle insurance Registration in Poland Registration impossible Only as parts source Sworn translation of documents required (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) ADL tip: Appears on Copart as 'Parts Only'. Can buy engine, gearbox, body — but not as a drivable vehicle.
Parts Only	Parts only	Like Junk Title — import to Poland for registration is impossible. Risk: customs detention and disposal costs (several thousand EUR).	YES
Parts Only What it means Vehicle intended exclusively for spare parts. Cannot legally drive on public roads. Risks and notes Registration impossible Cannot be re-registered as road vehicle Registration in Poland Registration impossible Sworn translation of documents required (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) ADL tip: Buy when you need specific parts. Often cheap source for engines, gearboxes, bumpers.
Certificate of Destruction	Certificate of destruction	VIN recorded in NMVTIS as crushed — registration impossible worldwide. Error costs: return transport to USA (3,000-6,000 EUR) or disposal in Poland.	YES
Certificate of Destruction What it means Vehicle with Certificate of Destruction title (Certificate of destruction) — permanently withdrawn from road traffic. Risks and notes Registration impossible in Poland or USA OSKP refuses inspection Vehicle insurance unavailable Registration in Poland Registration impossible Purchase only for spare parts Sworn translation of documents required (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) ADL tip: Purchase only for spare parts or as a display piece.
Scrap Title	Scrap title	Regional equivalent to Junk Title. Do not confuse with Salvage — identical consequences: dismantling only, registration impossible.	YES
Scrap Title What it means Vehicle with Scrap Title title (Scrap title) — permanently withdrawn from road traffic. Risks and notes Registration impossible in Poland or USA OSKP refuses inspection Vehicle insurance unavailable Registration in Poland Registration impossible Purchase only for spare parts Sworn translation of documents required (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) ADL tip: Purchase only for spare parts or as a display piece.
Dismantled	Dismantled	Vehicle disassembled or being dismantled. Usually no registration possible — check the exact content of the specific title.	YES
Dismantled What it means Vehicle with Dismantled title (Dismantled vehicle) — permanently withdrawn from road traffic. Risks and notes Registration impossible in Poland or USA OSKP refuses inspection Vehicle insurance unavailable Registration in Poland Registration impossible Purchase only for spare parts Sworn translation of documents required (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) ADL tip: Purchase only for spare parts or as a display piece.
Mileage and history issues — verification mandatory
Odometer Rollback	Odometer rollback	Federal crime in the USA — up to $10,000 and 3 years imprisonment. NHTSA: approx. 450,000 vehicles annually. Always verify via CarFax/AutoCheck.	YES
Odometer Rollback What it means Odometer intentionally tampered with. Federal crime in USA (Federal Odometer Act). NHTSA estimates 450,000 tampered vehicles per year. Risks and notes Real mileage may be 2–3× higher Accelerated wear of engine, transmission, suspension Underestimated service costs Registration in Poland Technically possible — risky ECU diagnostics — often stores real mileage Verification by expert Sworn translation of documents required (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) ADL tip: Check mileage in CarFax (Odometer Readings tab). BMW, Mercedes, Audi ECU logs mileage in control modules — cannot be deleted.
Not Actual Mileage	Not actual mileage	Seller cannot confirm accuracy of odometer reading — broken odometer, instrument replacement or suspected tampering. Price conservatively like TMU.	YES
Not Actual Mileage What it means Not Actual Mileage (Not actual mileage) — vehicle mileage requires additional verification. Risks and notes Real mileage may be higher than displayed Accelerated component wear ECU often stores actual mileage Registration in Poland Registration possible ECU diagnostics recommended Sworn translation of documents required (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) ADL tip: Check ECU records via computer diagnostics — actual mileage often readable.
Salvage Only	Salvage only	WARNING: don't confuse with regular Salvage Title! This is a Junk Certificate — permanently excluded from registration. Common in Illinois. 'Non-Registerable' on the title.	YES
Salvage Only What it means Vehicle with Salvage Only title (Salvage only) — permanently withdrawn from road traffic. Risks and notes Registration impossible in Poland or USA OSKP refuses inspection Vehicle insurance unavailable Registration in Poland Registration impossible Purchase only for spare parts Sworn translation of documents required (Certificate of Title, Bill of Sale) ADL tip: Purchase only for spare parts or as a display piece.

Each US state has its own title format, but all contain the same key information.

What does a Certificate of Title contain?

VIN — 17-digit vehicle identification number
Vehicle data — year, make, model, body type, colour
Owner data — name or company, address
Odometer reading — mileage at the time the title was issued
Lien holder — information about any creditor (bank, leasing company)
Title brand — vehicle status (Clean, Salvage, Rebuilt, Flood etc.)

Watch out for Title Brands: If the title shows "Salvage", "Rebuilt" or "Flood", the vehicle was seriously damaged. This may complicate or prevent registration in Poland.

What is a Bill of Sale?

A Bill of Sale is a purchase agreement confirming the transaction between seller and buyer. It contains the purchase price, transaction date and details of both parties. It is required by customs authorities to establish the tax base.

Why is a sworn translation required?

Polish vehicle registration offices require documents in Polish, or accompanied by a translation authenticated with the sworn translator's official stamp. Machine translation (Google Translate) or regular office translations are not accepted.

How much does it cost and how long does it take?

A sworn translation of a Certificate of Title costs from 60 to 100 PLN, depending on the document length and issuing state. Standard turnaround: 1–2 business days. Express service (24h) available including weekends.

Delivery: You will receive a PDF scan by e-mail on the same day. The original with stamp is sent by InPost/DHL/DPD courier, or you can collect it in person in Bydgoszcz.

Get your Certificate of Title translated fast

Sworn translations of US and Canadian vehicle documents — certified, with official stamp, accepted by all registration offices in Poland.

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ADL Tłumaczenia Przysięgłe · Bydgoszcz, Poland · ●●● · ●●●
Listed in the register of sworn translators of the Polish Ministry of Justice