How to Import a Car from Japan to the U.S. (the 25-Year Rule Explained)

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Japanese cars, trucks and kei vehicles are popular with U.S. collectors and small businesses. Importing one is very doable, but only if the vehicle qualifies. This guide explains the basics.

The 25-year rule

In general, a vehicle can be imported to the U.S. without meeting U.S. safety (FMVSS) and emissions (EPA) standards only if it is at least 25 years old, counted from its month and year of manufacture. A car built in March 2001, for example, becomes eligible in March 2026. Newer vehicles must have been built to U.S. standards, and most Japanese-market cars were not.

Step by step

  1. Choose an eligible vehicle. Confirm the build date from the chassis plate or documents, not just the model year.
  2. Inspect it. Check rust, mileage, accident history and mechanical condition with photos, video or an in-person inspection.
  3. Buy and collect documents. You need the bill of sale and Japanese export documents, including the deregistration (export) certificate.
  4. Ship it. Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping is common; containers cost more but add protection.
  5. Clear U.S. customs. Entry normally involves the bill of lading, bill of sale, and the EPA and DOT declaration forms. An importer security filing is needed for sea freight.
  6. Title and register. Each state sets its own titling rules, so check yours before you buy.

What it costs

Budget for the purchase price, domestic transport in Japan, export fees, ocean freight, U.S. duties and port fees, a customs broker, and inland delivery. Duties vary by vehicle type and change over time.

Common mistakes

  • Relying on the model year instead of the exact build month.
  • Skipping an independent inspection.
  • Not checking state registration and insurance rules for right-hand-drive vehicles.

How PDC helps

We find eligible vehicles, verify condition and paperwork before purchase, and coordinate export and delivery to a U.S. port. Browse vehicles or tell us what you are looking for.

This guide is general information, not legal, tax or customs advice. Rules change and depend on the item and destination. See What We Can’t Ship or Buy and confirm requirements with the relevant agency.

Ready to start? Send us a request and we will check it before you spend anything, or browse our listings.

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