Used Car Import Regulations in United States
In the United States, vehicles that comply with FMVSS/EPA standards, or vehicles at least 25 years old (25-year rule), can be imported. For arrivals from April 3, 2025, an additional 25% Section 232 tariff applies to passenger cars.
LHD and RHD allowed
No fixed age limit
Helvetica Light is an easy-to-read font, with tall and narrow letters, that works well on almost every site.
Import Eligibility
- DOT/EPA-compliant vehicles: if they met FMVSS and EPA standards at manufacture and bear the manufacturer's certification label, they can be imported regardless of age.
- 25-year rule: vehicles 25 years or older are exempt from FMVSS compliance and can be imported (EPA emissions exemption applies at 21 years).
- Non-compliant vehicles (< 25 years) can be cleared only after modification by a Registered Importer (RI) plus a bond.
- Show or Display (e.g., production of 500 units or fewer) allows special import with an annual mileage limit of 2,500 miles.
Import Duties & Taxes
- Base duty: passenger cars 2.5%, light trucks 25%, motorcycles 2.4% or duty-free.
- Additional Section 232 tariff: as a national security measure, an additional 25% tariff (passenger cars, light trucks, key parts) has been in effect for arrivals from April 3, 2025.
Vehicle Condition
Both new and used vehicles meeting the 25-year or compliance requirements can be imported (note state registration restrictions on salvage vehicles).
Required Documents
- CBP Form 7501 entry summary, commercial invoice, B/L
- DOT Form HS-7 (vehicle safety)
- EPA Form 3520-1 (emissions)
- Japanese deregistration certificate / export certificate, etc.
Steering (RHD/LHD) Rules
Right-hand drive vehicles are also allowed. They can be registered if they meet FMVSS or exemption requirements such as the 25-year rule; federal law has no LHD/RHD prohibition.
Shipping Methods
Discharged by RORO or container at major ports (Los Angeles, New York/New Jersey, Houston, etc.), then inland transport.
Sources
CBP, NHTSA, EPA, White House Proclamation
Information is current as of the verification date. Please check with the relevant government authorities for the latest information.