Kei truck & JDM legality by U.S. state
Federal clearance · state registration
The federal 25-year rule clears a Japanese import through U.S. customs, but each state decides whether you can title, plate, and drive it on public roads. Pick a state below for registration requirements, relevant statutes, and links to official DMV or DOT guidance.
State guides
Choose your state
These guides cover the most-requested states for importing and registering kei trucks and JDM vehicles. We expand coverage over time — if your state isn't listed, the federal rules on the main import guide still apply.
Arizona
Street use permittedOHV/on-road registration path with Primary On-Road Use — one of the most kei-friendly states.
Read guideTexas
Street use permittedSB 1816 classifies 25+ year miniature vehicles as motor vehicles for title and highway use.
Read guideUtah
Conditional / restrictedGenerally permitted with 50 mph road limits; stricter emissions in Wasatch Front counties.
Read guideIdaho
Conditional / restrictedNo statewide ban; county-level registration with VIN inspection — confirm local road rules.
Read guideWashington
Conditional / restrictedRegisters 25-year imports but limits them to roads posted 35 mph or less — no highways. No emissions test.
Read guideCalifornia
On-road use prohibitedOn-road registration effectively blocked by CARB emissions and FMVSS requirements.
Read guideOregon
On-road use prohibitedDMV won't title or register kei vehicles for road use; off-road Class IV ATV titling only.
Read guideLaws and agency interpretations change. Confirm current requirements with your state DMV before purchasing. These guides are informational only and not legal advice.
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