Importing JDM Vehicles to America: The Complete Guide to Auctions, Exporters, Shipping, an

What is the 25-year rule for importing JDM cars?

US federal law (the Imported Vehicle Safety Compliance Act) prohibits importing vehicles less than 25 years old unless they meet all FMVSS safety standards. This means a 1999 Nissan Skyline R34 becomes legal to import in 2024. The clock starts from the month of manufacture, not the model year. Some states have additional requirements — California is the strictest with CARB emissions compliance.

What does NHTSA require when importing a JDM car?

Vehicles under 25 years old must be certified as conforming to FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) or imported as Show or Display (rare exemption). For 25-year-exempt vehicles, you file NHTSA Form HS-7 checking Box 8 (over 25 years old), which requires no modifications. If the vehicle is under 25 years and not otherwise exempt, it must be brought into FMVSS compliance or is not legal for road use — there are very few exceptions.