How to Import a Car into the USA

Vehicles Under 25 Years Old

Vehicles less than 25 years old must comply with all FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) and EPA emissions standards. If the vehicle was not originally manufactured for the US market, it must be modified by a Registered Importer (RI), a DOT-approved company that brings the vehicle into compliance. The RI quotes the cost for each vehicle. Not every model can be converted.

Older and Classic Cars (21 and 25 Years)

Two different age rules apply. DOT: a vehicle at least 25 years old, counted from the month of manufacture, does not have to meet the safety standards (49 CFR 591.5(i)). EPA: a vehicle at least 21 years old (the year of import minus the year of manufacture) and in its original configuration does not have to meet the emissions standards. A car that is 21 to 24 years old passes the EPA rule but still needs DOT compliance. You still need a customs entry, the duty and the documents below. Check your vehicle.

Required Documentation

• DOT Form HS-7: Declaration of compliance or exemption
• EPA Form 3520-1: Declaration of emissions compliance or exemption
• Foreign title or registration: Proof of ownership
• Bill of sale or purchase receipt: For value declaration
• Bill of Lading: From the shipping carrier

Duty Rates

Passenger vehicles are subject to a 2.5% duty rate. Trucks (including SUVs classified as trucks) face a 25% "chicken tax". Motorcycles range from 0% to 2.4%. The Section 232 duty on automobiles adds to these rates, at a rate that depends on the country. It does not apply to a vehicle made in a year at least 25 years before the year of entry (in 2026: made in 2001 or earlier). The IEEPA duties ended on February 20, 2026. See the 2026 vehicle duty table. Since July 24, 2026, a Section 301 duty of 10% or 12.5% also applies to vehicles from many countries, including cars that are exempt from Section 232 because of their age.