| Importing a Japanese used car is going to be a | | | | Also, requirements are focused on cars that are to be |
| possible but usually expensive process for US but for | | | | used on any public road. That means, if you don't want |
| some it is worth it. Getting your dream car is not as far | | | | to use for street use, you can import under different |
| out of your reach as you think. US regulations has | | | | reasons: |
| three sets of rules for importing cars for public road | | | | - You declare it for Race/Track purpose only (need |
| use: | | | | special permission) |
| | | | - You declare it for Show purpose only (need special |
| 1. Reimporting Exported American Cars | | | | permission) |
| 2. Importing Canadian Cars | | | | - You declare not fit for public road use (off-road |
| 3. And Importing Cars from Elsewhere (ie. Japan) | | | | vehicle) (need proof) |
| While the first two mostly involve showing supporting | | | | - You declare it a "kit car" (need proof) |
| documents and maybe some minor change (such as | | | | If your car doesn't fall in any of the above categories |
| adding safety restraints and replacing catalyst | | | | and doesn't meet age exemptions, you must import |
| converters that were used with leaded fuel), importing | | | | the car as an "Eligible Non-conforming Vehicle". In short, |
| from other countries is a different story. Before going | | | | here is the way: |
| further, there is a few exceptions: | | | | To pass DOT standards, you need a Registered |
| Depending on the age of the car, the US Government | | | | Import (RI) able to import your car. To pass EPA |
| wants you to meet DOT (Dept. of Transport) | | | | standards, you need a Independent Commercial |
| standards for Safety, Bumper, and Anti-Theft. Also, the | | | | Importer (ICI) that is able to import your car and bring it |
| EPA will want you to meet Emission standards. Here's | | | | up to spec. You must use them if you don't qualify for |
| a general guideline: | | | | exemptions (such as the 25 and 21 year rules). |
| | | | Depending on the complications of the vehicle you |
| 1. If the car is 25 or older, you don't need to pass any | | | | want, I can be between the same day of arrival or up |
| standards. | | | | to 3 months after arrival to get your vehicle legal in the |
| 2. If the car is 21 or older, you don't need to pass | | | | USA and in your hands. Likewise, depending on what is |
| emission standards. | | | | your dream, costs can vary considerably. |