How to Legally Import a JDM Car to the USA [2025 Guide]
How to Legally Import a JDM Car to the USA [2025 Guide]
At Toprank Importers and Importavehicle.com, we handle the entire JDM import process for you—legally and seamlessly. Whether the vehicle is already in our U.S. inventory, located at our Japan facility, or available through dealer or auction networks, we make it easy to own your dream Japanese car.
✨ Why Import a JDM Car with Toprank?
- Exclusive Access: Choose from our own inventory in Japan or the U.S., or let us source through trusted auctions (USS) and other dealers.
- One-Stop Solution: We manage export, shipping, customs clearance, compliance, and even DMV paperwork.
- Legality Guaranteed: Every vehicle is imported under the 25-Year Rule and compliant with DOT/EPA standards.
Step 1: The 25-Year Rule (We Handle the Details)
Vehicles over 25 years old (based on production month and year) are exempt from DOT and EPA regulations. We: - Verify eligibility by chassis number and export certificate - Ensure documentation matches U.S. Customs requirements - Offer storage in Japan until eligibility month if needed
Example: A car built in October 2000 is legal for import October 2025. We’ll track and schedule shipping accordingly.
Step 2: Source Your Car
You can: - Select a car from our U.S. inventory (no wait) - Choose from our in-stock Japan inventory - Request us to buy from dealer stock or bid at auction on your behalf
We provide: - Photos, auction sheets, and inspection reports - Service history (when available) - Guidance on model differences, rarity, and investment potential
Step 3: We Handle Shipping & Customs
Toprank arranges: - RoRo or container shipping from Japan - Export paperwork, translations, and document prep - Filing of EPA 3520-1, DOT HS-7, and CBP forms - U.S. port clearance and coordination with a licensed broker
We ensure smooth customs release and offer bonded storage if you need to delay pickup.
Step 4: Delivery, Title & Registration Support
Once cleared, we: - Deliver to your home or nearest transport hub - Provide stamped EPA/DOT forms and Customs Entry Summary - Assist with state DMV title and registration, including smog and VIN verification guidance
In California or other strict states? We’ll advise what’s eligible and help navigate CARB requirements.
What’s Legal in 2025? (We Track Every VIN)
Here are some JDM icons eligible under the 25-Year Rule in 2025: - 2000 R34 Skyline GT-T (RB25DET Neo) - 2000 Honda S2000 (JDM AP1) - 2000 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI TME - 2000 Toyota Verossa and Altezza RS200
We’ll confirm build dates and offer legal import-ready listings months in advance.
✨ Why Trust Toprank?
- Vehicles in stock in both Japan and the USA
- Legal import and compliance experts with 20+ years experience
- Transparent pricing and detailed documentation
Visit importavehicle.com to start your search, reserve a car, or request an auction bid.
Want a JDM car legally, with no headaches? We do the work. You get the keys.
