Illinois Catalytic Converter Laws

Selling Catalytic Converters in Illinois

Updated Definitions from Public Act 103-0677

As of 2025, Illinois has updated its legal definitions and restrictions around the buying and selling of catalytic converters through Public Act 103-0677 and amendments to the Recyclable Metal Purchase Registration Law (815 ILCS 325).

Key Terms:

  • Catalytic Converter: A post-combustion device that oxidizes hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide gases or reduces oxides of nitrogen. Includes nonferrous parts such as rhodium, platinum, and palladium.
  • Detached Catalytic Converter: A catalytic converter that was previously installed on a motor vehicle and subsequently removed.
  • Recyclable Metal Dealer: A business engaged in the purchase and resale of recyclable metals, including catalytic converters. Excludes licensed automotive parts recyclers and scrap processors.

Restrictions on Sales and Purchases

Who Can Sell?

  • Only licensed automotive parts recyclers or scrap processors may legally sell detached catalytic converters.

Who Can Buy?

  • Only licensed recyclable metal dealers may buy detached catalytic converters.
  • The purchase must occur at the fixed business address of the licensed dealer.

Prohibited Transactions:

  • It is illegal to buy, sell, or possess a catalytic converter that is not attached to a vehicle unless the seller is licensed.
  • Catalytic converters clearly marked as belonging to another business or government entity cannot be sold.

Record-Keeping Requirements

Licensed recyclable metal dealers must:

  • Maintain an electronic record of each purchase.
  • Include:
    1. Dealer’s name and address
    2. Date and place of the transaction
    3. Seller’s name, address, driver’s license, and valid license as a parts recycler or scrap processor
    4. Vehicle license plate number of the delivery vehicle
    5. Description of metal (weight, form, etc.) and VIN of the vehicle from which the catalytic converter was removed
    6. Photographs or video of the seller and the materials
    7. Signed declaration that the material is not stolen
    8. Copy of title or invoice showing ownership of the vehicle

Retention Periods:

  • Purchase records: 3 years
  • Photographs: 3 months
  • Videos: 1 month

Inspection:

  • All records must be made available to law enforcement upon request.
  • A 1099-MISC form must be filed unless the seller is licensed.

Payment Restrictions

  • No cash payments allowed for catalytic converters valued at $100 or more.
  • Payment must be made via check or money order to the individual or business named in the transaction.

Penalties for Violations

  • First offense: Class A misdemeanor
  • Second or subsequent offense: Class 4 felony
  • Each day of non-compliance counts as a separate offense
  • Violating this law can result in forfeiture of metal obtained illegally
Sell Your Converters Legally

Selling to RRCats from Illinois

Although Illinois has strict regulations around selling detached catalytic converters in-state, RRCats is based in New Jersey, which means Illinois residents can legally ship converters to us without needing to be a licensed automotive recycler or scrap processor in Illinois. This allows you to bypass many of the local restrictions while still complying with all federal and New Jersey laws. It’s a faster, easier, and legally sound way to sell your used converters.

If you’re in Illinois and want to sell your catalytic converter to RRCats:

  • Provide all required documentation, including proof of ownership and vehicle title.
  • Enter all required serial data and photo documentation
  • After approving our quote you get paid!
    • We do not pay in cash – all payments are processed digitally or by mailed check.

Need Help?

Not sure how the process works? See how it works »

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Check corners, under shields, and down pipes for numbers. Not all catalytic converters have numbers.
Drag & Drop Files, Choose Files to Upload You can upload up to 10 files.
To get a quote sooner, attach photos of any serial numbers and an overhead pic of the catalytic converter(s).
Drag & Drop Files, Choose Files to Upload You can upload up to 3 files.
Upload a Photo: Please include a clear photo of one of the following documents: Vehicle or equipment, Registration, Title, or Bill of Sale. Why do we need this? We are required by law to verify proof of ownership before purchasing certain equipment or materials to prevent theft and ensure lawful transfer. For more details, refer to New Jersey Scrap Metal Laws – N.J.S.A. 13:1E-99.12 (or insert exact link to the statute you want to reference). This requirement is mandatory to receive a quote.

Who Is RRCats?

Nationwide catalytic converter buyers

Fair. Consistent. Reliable.

“Their online system works great. Verifying ID and proof of ownership worked smoothly and gave me confidence that I was dealing with a reputable company.”

~ Customer, Mike K.*

“Very fast service! I submitted my info for a quote and got it the next morning. The only thing that was slow about the process was me packing it all up to ship out!”

~ Customer, Steven C.*

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