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Can I import it?

Every country counts from the month the vehicle was built, not the model year it is advertised as. That single detail causes most failed imports.

Eligibility calculator

Use the build month and year off the build plate, not the advertised model year.

Enter a four-digit build year to see the eligibility dates.

Guide only. Rules change, being eligible to import does not guarantee you can register the vehicle locally, and state or provincial requirements differ. Send us the chassis code and we will confirm the build month.

USUnited States

25 years from the build month

A vehicle is exempt from FMVSS and EPA requirements once it is 25 years old, counted from the month of manufacture rather than the model year. A vehicle built in November 2001 is not eligible in January 2026, but it is from November 2026.

  • Eligibility date = build month + 25 years
  • The build plate and export certificate are what customs reads
  • State registration rules vary and are completed by you
  • Registration for road use depends on your state, and sometimes your county, and the rules change often

CACanada

15 years from the build month

Transport Canada exempts vehicles 15 years and older from the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, again measured from the month of manufacture. Provincial safety inspection is the step to plan for after arrival.

  • Eligibility date = build month + 15 years
  • Provincial inspection and registration are completed by you
  • Right-hand drive is accepted
  • Opens up vehicles still too new for the US

UKUnited Kingdom

Over 10 years old keeps it simple

There is no long federal waiting period. Vehicles over 10 years old avoid most type-approval friction and go through the standard used-import route, then an MOT and DVLA registration. Duty and VAT apply on arrival.

  • Over 10 years old avoids most type-approval friction
  • MOT before registration, DVLA issues the plate
  • Import duty and VAT payable on arrival

IEIreland

Similar route, plus VRT

Ireland follows a comparable used-import route for older vehicles, with an NCT and registration after arrival. Revenue assesses Vehicle Registration Tax, and duty and VAT apply on import from Japan.

  • Older vehicles use the standard used-import route
  • VRT assessed by Revenue after inspection
  • Duty and VAT payable on arrival

Before you rely on this

  • · Import and registration rules change, and this page is a summary, not legal advice.
  • · Being eligible to import does not automatically mean you can register the vehicle where you live.
  • · State, provincial and national requirements differ, and registration is completed by you.
  • · We will research your specific destination with you before you commit to a purchase.

Have a specific car in mind?

Send the model and chassis code, or a photo of the build plate, and we will confirm the exact month it becomes eligible for your country.

Ask us