Kentucky Catalytic Converter Laws

Selling Catalytic Converters in Kentucky

If you’re thinking about selling a used catalytic converter in Kentucky, it’s important to understand the state’s strict laws designed to prevent theft and ensure legal compliance. Below is a summary of what sellers and buyers need to know before entering into any transaction.

What the Law Says in Kentucky

Kentucky law (KRS § 433.890) outlines specific responsibilities for anyone purchasing catalytic converters, including scrap metal dealers and recyclers. Here’s what you should know:

1. Recordkeeping Requirements

Buyers must collect and maintain a detailed register for every catalytic converter transaction, including:

  • A photocopy of the seller’s valid government-issued photo ID

  • The license plate number and state of the vehicle used to deliver the converter

  • Time, date, and description of the converter, including weight

  • Purchase price and unit of measurement (e.g., per pound)

  • For catalytic converters specifically:

    • A copy of the vehicle title or registration (in the seller’s name)

    • A receipt for the replacement converter

    • Verification the seller meets the minimum age of 18

2. Penalties

Violations of the law—aside from recordkeeping issues—are considered Class B misdemeanors, which can carry criminal penalties.

Exemptions to the Law

Not all catalytic converter sales fall under KRS § 433.890. Some exemptions include:

  • Transactions involving licensed motor vehicles or junked titles

  • Sales from licensed pawnbrokers

  • Converters sold under contract from industrial businesses or registered charitable organizations

  • Single sales under $10, unless there are multiple small sales from the same person in a 7-day period

  • Scrap collected as trash by municipal or licensed waste haulers

  • Sales between two licensed entities already maintaining appropriate records

Can You Sell Your Catalytic Converter to RRCats from Kentucky?

Yes! Even with Kentucky’s stringent laws, you can legally ship your catalytic converter to RRCats. Because RRCats operates out of New Jersey, and we do not conduct in-person transactions within Kentucky, our operations fall outside the jurisdiction of Kentucky’s local transaction laws.

We ensure every seller provides proper documentation, and we comply with all federal shipping and identification standards. Our process makes it:

  • Legal
  • Secure
  • Convenient
Sell Your Converter

Why Choose RRCats?

RRCats offers a better alternative than selling to local scrapyards or middlemen in Kentucky. Here’s why:

  • Top-dollar pricing based on precious metal recovery
  • Free, trackable shipping labels
  • Fast payments via check or direct deposit
  • Dedicated support to help with paperwork

Need Help?

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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.*