What does a registered importer (RI) do?

A Registered Importer (RI) is a company certified by NHTSA to modify non-conforming foreign vehicles to meet US safety standards. For vehicles under 25 years old, an RI must physically modify the vehicle (airbags, bumpers, odometer conversion, lighting) and then petition NHTSA to "bond release" the car for title. The process takes 6-18 months and costs $5,000-$20,000+ depending on the vehicle. For 25-year-exempt cars, an RI is unnecessary.