Vehicles and animals · DOT (NHTSA)
DOT Form HS-7: Declaration for imported motor vehicles and equipment (FMVSS)
DOT Form HS-7 declares the basis on which a motor vehicle or vehicle equipment enters under U.S. safety, bumper and theft prevention standards. It is filed at the time of entry.
At a glance
- Issued by
- NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation
- Rules
- 49 CFR 591.5 and 19 CFR 12.80
- When
- When the vehicle is offered for importation
- How it is filed
- With the entry, on paper or electronically in ACE
- Box 1
- Vehicles 25 years or older
DOT Form HS-7
What is DOT Form HS-7?
DOT Form HS-7 is the NHTSA declaration for imported motor vehicles and motor vehicle equipment. The importer checks the box that states why the item may enter.
A vehicle can enter because it conforms to the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and bears the maker's label. A vehicle at least 25 years old can enter under Box 1 without regard to FMVSS.
Other declarations cover Canadian-certified vehicles, vehicles brought into conformity by a Registered Importer, and temporary imports with NHTSA approval.
Who and when
Who needs it and when?
- Anyone importing a car, motorcycle, truck or trailer, and importers of regulated equipment such as tires.
- It is due when the vehicle is offered for importation (49 CFR 591.5).
- A nonconforming vehicle under 25 years old generally needs a Registered Importer. It also needs a DOT bond for 150 percent of its dutiable value (49 CFR 591.5(f)).
Roles
Who signs it and who files it?
- The importer signs the declaration. Your broker files it with the entry.
- Brokers can send the HS-7 data electronically in ACE with the NHTSA message set.
- Attach papers when the declaration calls for them, for example the Registered Importer contract and DOT bond, or an NHTSA approval letter.
Avoid delays
What mistakes delay it?
A vehicle that is not yet 25 years old
The 25 years run from the date of manufacture, not the model year. Check the manufacture date on the label or title.Declaring conformity with no U.S. label
Conformity needs the original maker's certification label. A car built for another market usually lacks it.A Canadian vehicle for resale
The Canadian-certified declaration is for personal-use imports that meet the listed conditions (49 CFR 591.5(g)).No approval letter for a temporary import
Get the NHTSA approval before the vehicle ships. CBP requires the written approvals at entry.No EPA declaration
Vehicles also need EPA Form 3520-1. CBP checks both.
Official source
Where do I get the official form?
NHTSA publishes the HS-7 on its importing page, with separate forms for Box 7 and Box 8 imports. The form link downloads the current PDF.
- Official pageNHTSA: Importing a Vehicle (opens in a new tab)
- Current formDeclaration Form HS-7 (PDF, nhtsa.gov) (opens in a new tab)
- Also officialCBP: Importing a Motor Vehicle (opens in a new tab)
We link to the official source and do not host copies, because agencies replace forms without notice.
Allied CHB
How can Allied help with DOT Form HS-7?
We check the manufacture date and the right declaration before the vehicle ships, then file the HS-7 with the entry.
Allied CHB is a licensed U.S. customs broker in Rahway, New Jersey, CBP filer code 9AJ. We file at all U.S. ports of entry.
Vehicle import service Car, motorcycle and truck entries with HS-7 and EPA forms.
Request: Help with DOT Form HS-7
Quote on request
Questions
What else do people ask about DOT Form HS-7?
Does a 25-year-old car need an HS-7?
Yes. You still file the HS-7 and check Box 1. The age rule removes the FMVSS requirement, not the declaration.
Is the 25-year rule counted from the model year?
No. It runs from the date of manufacture.
Can I import a newer car that was not built for the U.S. market?
Only if it is eligible and a Registered Importer brings it into conformity, with a DOT bond. Some models are not eligible.
Do I also need an EPA form?
Yes. Vehicles also need EPA Form 3520-1 for emissions.
Need help with DOT Form HS-7?
Call (908) 291-8001 or email info@alliedchb.com
Last reviewed September 26, 2026. This page explains customs rules in general terms. It is not legal advice. Duty rates and CBP procedures change often, and we confirm the figures for your shipment in writing before you commit.