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Photograph the material, nameplates and quantity, then send them through the quote form, by email or by phone.
COPPER SELLER GUIDE
What ID Do You Need to Sell Copper Scrap?
Every state has its own scrap metal rules — and California just became the first to require a copper seller license. Here is what legitimate sellers need to know.
The basics in every state.
Across the country, selling copper scrap to a legitimate buyer looks the same: government-issued photo ID, a recorded transaction (what you sold, when, for how much), and traceable payment — many states restrict or ban cash payments for scrap metal. These rules protect you as much as anyone: a documented sale is proof the transaction was legitimate.
California AB 476: the first seller license.
California’s AB 476, effective January 1, 2026, makes California the first state to require a license to sell copper scrap. If you sell copper in California, understand the licensing requirement before you show up with a load — licensed, documented sellers move through the process smoothly while unprepared sellers get turned away.
Other states are tightening too.
Texas updated its scrap metal laws in 2025, and the national trend is toward stricter documentation everywhere. The practical move: check your state’s current requirements before a large sale, keep your ID current, and keep any paperwork showing where the material came from — demolition contracts, work orders, and receipts all help.
Sell it the straightforward way.
Photograph what you have — nameplates, labels, and overall condition — and send it to Ironcrest for today’s offer. We buy nationally and coordinate pickup from your site.
Sell your copper to Ironcrest → | Call or text 312-880-8174 | Send photos →
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions, answered.
Do I need a license to sell copper scrap?
In California, yes, as of January 1, 2026 under AB 476. In most other states you need government ID rather than a license — but check your state’s current law, because requirements keep tightening.
What ID is accepted?
Government-issued photo ID — driver’s license or state ID card. The buyer records it with the transaction.
Can I sell copper scrap for cash?
It depends on your state — many states restrict or prohibit cash payments for scrap metal to deter theft. Expect check, ACH, or other traceable payment in those states.
What if I inherited the copper or got it from a demolition?
Bring anything showing legitimate origin: demolition contracts, work orders, estate paperwork, receipts. Documented material sells smoothly; undocumented material raises questions.
Why do legitimate buyers require ID?
Because the law requires it — and because it protects both sides. ID and records prove the transaction was legitimate, which is exactly what serious sellers want.
THE RULES
Legitimate sellers carry ID.
Scrap metal laws exist to stop theft — and they reward sellers who document properly.
New: Explore the Ironcrest Copper Resource Center — grades, markets, identification guides, and interactive tools.
HOW SELLING WORKS
Three steps to an offer.
Material review
We review what the material is, its condition and quantity, and whether it fits a direct purchase.
Receive an offer
For qualifying material, we discuss a direct purchase offer and the next steps.