How to Scrap a Car in Malta — The Complete Guide to Vehicle Deregistration

Getting rid of an old, non-roadworthy, or end-of-life vehicle in Malta involves more than simply abandoning it or handing it over to someone. The vehicle needs to be formally deregistered with Transport Malta — the authority responsible for vehicle licensing on the island. Until that happens, the car remains in your name and you remain responsible for it, including any associated fees or liabilities.

This guide explains every step of the process, from arranging collection to completing the deregistration, so you know exactly what to expect.

When Does a Car Become a Scrap Vehicle?

A vehicle is typically ready for scrapping when one or more of the following apply:

•        The cost of repairs exceeds the vehicle's market value

•        The vehicle has failed its roadworthiness test and the issues are not worth fixing

•        It has been in a serious accident and is declared a write-off by an insurer

•        It has not been driven for years and has deteriorated beyond practical use

•        It is an old vehicle that the owner simply wants removed

•        The vehicle has no current registration or has been declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notice)

Even if your vehicle ticks none of these boxes but you simply no longer want it, scrapping is a legitimate option — particularly for older vehicles with low resale value.

Step 1 — Arrange Collection

The first step is to arrange for the vehicle to be collected. Super Road Assistance provides free scrap car collection across all of Malta. We collect vehicles in any condition — whether they start and roll, or have been stationary for years. We use tow trucks to extract vehicles that cannot move under their own power, including from garages, private land, and tight spaces.

When you call, have the following ready: the vehicle's location, make, model, and approximate condition. If access is restricted (low ceiling, narrow gate, private land), let us know so we can bring the right vehicle.

Step 2 — The Transport Malta Deregistration Process

This is the step most people are unsure about. Deregistration is the formal removal of the vehicle from the Transport Malta register — it takes the car out of your name and ends your responsibility for it.

What you need

•        The vehicle's registration document (logbook / V5C or equivalent)

•        Your identity document (ID card or passport)

•        Proof of the vehicle's disposal — this is typically provided by the licensed recycling facility that takes the vehicle

•        A completed Transport Malta deregistration form

What if I have lost the documents?

Lost documentation does not necessarily prevent deregistration, but it requires a different process. Contact Transport Malta directly at their offices in Marsa to discuss your specific situation. In some cases an affidavit or statutory declaration may be accepted in place of the original registration document. Super Road Assistance can advise on this when you call.

Where to submit the deregistration

Transport Malta's main office is located in Marsa. Deregistration can be submitted in person. The process typically takes a few working days once all documentation is in order.

Step 3 — Licensed Disposal

In Malta and across the EU, end-of-life vehicles must be disposed of at a licensed vehicle recycling facility. Dumping a vehicle on public land, leaving it at a private address without deregistering it, or selling it to an unlicensed trader does not constitute legal disposal — the vehicle remains on the register and the owner may face fines.

Vehicles collected by Super Road Assistance are transported to a licensed recycling facility in Malta where they are dismantled and processed in compliance with Maltese and EU environmental regulations. We provide the documentation you need for the deregistration process.

What About the Road Licence?

If your vehicle has a current road licence (road tax), you may be entitled to a refund for unused months once the vehicle is deregistered. Contact Transport Malta with your deregistration confirmation to enquire about a refund. The amount depends on how much of the licence period remains.

Scrap Car Malta — Frequently Asked Questions

Is scrap car collection free in Malta?

This depends the condition of the vehicle. Nowadays more stringent rules are being introduced by licensed scrap facilities and authorities and therefore depending the condition we can assess if we can take the car for free or a small cost. Super Road Assistance collects scrap and end-of-life vehicles across all of Malta free of charge.

Do I have to be present when the vehicle is collected?

Someone needs to be present or arrange access to the vehicle. If you cannot be there in person, you can arrange for another person to be present on your behalf.

Can you collect a car that does not start or has flat tyres?

Yes. We use tow trucks to extract non-operational vehicles. Even if the car has not moved in years, we can collect it.

How long does the deregistration process take?

Once documentation is submitted to Transport Malta, the process typically takes a few working days.

What happens to my vehicle after collection?

It is transported to a licensed vehicle recycling facility in Malta where it is dismantled and processed in compliance with environmental regulations.

Can you collect from a garage or enclosed space?

Yes in most cases — call us and describe the access situation. We will confirm the right equipment.

Ready to Arrange Collection?

Call +356 7713 1071 or send photos of the vehicle via WhatsApp to the same number. Tell us where it is and its condition — we will arrange a collection time that suits you and guide you through the deregistration paperwork.