FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A - Vehicles that are at least 25 years old, based on their month and year of production, are legal to import to the US under the “25-Year Rule.” Once a vehicle is 25 years old from its production month, it is exempt from Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and EPA requirements for import, but normal customs duties and state registration rules still apply.

As we go into 2026, this means:
– 2000 and older vehicles are already eligible under the 25-year rule
– 2001 vehicles become eligible month-by-month in 2026 (for example, a January 2001 car is legal to import starting January 2026)
– 2002 vehicles become eligible month-by-month in 2027

For examples of vehicles turning 25 in 2026: https://toprankjdm.com/2026

A - Cars over 25 years old, from date of manufacture (month/year) are legal to import. The R34 GT-R and Silvia S15 were produced from 1999 through 2002, so:
– 1999 builds became eligible in 2024
– 2000 builds become eligible in 2025
– 2001 builds become eligible in 2026
– 2002 builds become eligible in 2027

If your preferred car isn’t yet 25 years old, we can buy and store it in Japan until it becomes eligible. Browse R34 GT-Rs for sale  |  Browse Silvia S15s for sale

A - Short version: if a vehicle is less than 25 years old, not originally built to US standards, and not certified to all applicable FMVSS and EPA requirements, you generally cannot permanently import it unless it goes through a Registered Importer (RI) and an NHTSA eligibility determination.

Under 49 U.S.C. § 30112(a), a person may not permanently import into the United States a motor vehicle manufactured after the date that an applicable Federal motor vehicle safety standard (FMVSS) takes effect unless the vehicle complies with the standard and is so certified by its original manufacturer. This prohibition applies to both new and used motor vehicles, but does not apply to motor vehicles that are at least 25 years old (based on the month and year of manufacture).

If a motor vehicle was manufactured to comply with all applicable FMVSS, and bears a label certifying such compliance that was permanently affixed by its original manufacturer, there is no need for NHTSA approval before the vehicle is imported. However, the manufacturer would have to submit to the agency information identifying it and the products that it manufactures that are subject to our standards no later than 30 days after manufacturing begins. In addition, the manufacturer would have to submit to us information necessary to decipher the VIN that it must assign to each motor vehicle it manufactures for sale in the U.S. If the vehicle manufacturer is not located in the U.S. the manufacturer must also designate a U.S. resident as its agent for service of process.

If the vehicle is less than 25 years old and was not originally manufactured to comply with all applicable FMVSS, and/or was not so certified by its original manufacturer, it cannot be lawfully imported into the U.S. on a permanent basis unless NHTSA determines it eligible for importation. The agency makes those determinations on its own initiative or on the basis of a petition from a registered importer. These are business entities that are specifically approved by NHTSA to import nonconforming vehicles and to perform the necessary modifications on those vehicles so that they conform to all applicable FMVSS. The petitions must specify that the vehicle is substantially similar to a vehicle that was certified by its original manufacturer as conforming to all applicable FMVSS and is capable of being readily altered to conform to those standards, or, if there is no substantially similar U.S.-certified vehicle, that the vehicle has safety features that comply with, or are capable of being altered to comply with, the FMVSS based on destructive test information or other evidence the agency deems adequate. Import eligibility decisions are made on a make, model, and model year basis.

An additional requirement for the lawful importation of a nonconforming vehicle is that it be imported by a registered importer (RI) or by an individual who has contracted with an RI to bring the vehicle into conformity with all applicable FMVSS. A bond in an amount equivalent to 150 percent of the declared value of the vehicle must be given at the time of importation to ensure that the necessary modifications are completed within 120 days of entry. A list of RIs can be found at: https://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/import/ You might want to contact one or more of the listed RIs to obtain their opinion on the feasibility of conforming the vehicle that you seek to import to the FMVSS, and the costs involved in petitioning the agency to determine that vehicle to be eligible for importation, as well as the costs for conforming the vehicle to the FMVSS.

A - The R34 Skyline non-GT-R models (25GT, 25GT Turbo, etc.) were produced starting in 1998. The R34 Skyline GT-R was produced from 1999–2002. Each car becomes eligible for import to the US 25 years from its production month (for example, a January 1999 car became eligible in January 2024; a July 2000 car becomes eligible in July 2025).

There are also several R34 GT-R models that are legal to import under the very specific Show or Display NHTSA exemption. No other R34 GT-R variants have been approved for Show or Display. All other R34s must either wait until they are 25 years old or go through a full compliance/RI path, which is generally not practical for most buyers. How to Buy and Store an R34 GT-R in Japan until it is 25 years old
See R34 GT-Rs currently for sale

A - The R33 Skyline GTS/GTS-t versions were produced from August 1993. The R33 Skyline GT-R was produced from 1995–1998. All R33s are now over 25 years old and are normally imported under the 25-Year Rule.

Historically, the 1996–1998 Nissan Skyline GT-R was eligible to the US under VCP-32 through a Registered Importer, and these vehicles had to be modified to meet NHTSA and EPA requirements when they were under 25/21 years old. Today, because these cars are all over 25 years old, they are generally imported under the simpler age-based exemption rather than through the older RI/VCP-32 route. Please call or email us for more details.

A - A car with no engine and transmission, or missing FMVSS-related items, may be treated as “parts” by NHTSA, and EPA may look at it similarly unless it constitutes a disassembled vehicle. However, legally turning a collection of parts back into a car and titling it in the US is a very tricky situation and highly state-dependent. We only want to be involved with importing complete, legal vehicles. Imported legally means fewer hassles down the road.

A - Yes, we import 25-year-old vehicles from anywhere, not just Japan. Europe, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and more. If there is a particular car you are looking for, ask, and we should be able to locate one. http://toprankjdm.com/Find

A - For age-based EPA exemption, vehicles at least 21 years old must generally be in their original unmodified configuration. Vehicles at least 21 years old with replacement engines are not eligible for this exemption unless they contain equivalent or newer EPA-certified engines and emission control systems. 3520-1 Importation of Motor Vehicles and Motor Vehicle Engines Subject to Federal Air Pollution Regulations.

A - Vehicles over 25 years old are NHTSA exempt for import to the US. Vehicles over 21 years old in original configuration are EPA exempt for import to the US. Racing cars can fall under different requirements for importation, but there is no general “track-only” registration category for normal street cars in California.

California identifies a “racing vehicle” as: “a motor vehicle of a type used exclusively in a contest of speed or in a competitive trial of speed which is not intended for use on the highways.” That is a narrow definition, and most customers asking this question are really talking about street cars that will see track use. Those must still meet normal California rules if they are to be registered and driven on public roads. http://toprankjdm.com/California

A - Check out this blog post on what to look for on imported vehicles. Paperwork and history are very important. Anyone owning a direct import vehicle should have the paperwork shown in this post (e.g. HS-7, 3520-1, CBP 7501, etc.). http://www.importavehicle.info/2011/11/is-my-imported-car-legal.html

A – The R35 GT-R launched in Japan in late 2007 and was sold new in the United States starting in 2008 as a 2009 model. U.S.-market R35 GT-Rs were fully certified to meet FMVSS and EPA standards.

JDM, Euro, and other non-US R35 GT-Rs cannot be permanently imported unless they are 25 years old. That means:
• Late-2007 JDM builds become eligible in late 2032
• 2008 JDM/Euro builds become eligible throughout 2033
• 2009+ foreign builds become eligible 25 years after their production month

Until those dates, non-US R35 GT-Rs cannot be imported for permanent road use.

Why non-US R35s cannot be imported earlier:
• They were never certified by Nissan for U.S. sale.
• They are not eligible for the Registered Importer (RI) pathway — NHTSA has not approved any foreign-market R35 as “substantially similar” to the U.S. model.
• They are not eligible for Show or Display (production far exceeds 500 units and they do not qualify).
• Therefore the 25-Year Rule is the only legal path for a JDM/Euro R35.

Want a JDM R35 anyway?
Yes — we can help you buy a JDM R35 in Japan and store it until it reaches its 25-year eligibility date. This allows you to secure an early 2007–2010 R35 before prices increase.

Browse R35 GT-Rs and other JDM inventory at Toprank Global

Conclusion:
• If you want an R35 now: buy a U.S.-market R35 already in the country (we can help).
• If you want a JDM-spec R35: buy and store it in Japan until it becomes 25 years old and fully legal to import.

A - We mostly ship vehicles Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off). This is the same method and on the same ships as many new vehicles. We normally ship very high value, low-clearance, or special vehicles via container, but when possible our preferred method is Ro-Ro because it is typically more efficient and cost-effective.

A - If a vehicle is shipped Ro-Ro then no loose parts are allowed to be shipped inside the vehicle. If we ship via container, then it is possible to include parts, however please contact us first so we can confirm what is allowed and how it must be documented.

A - Toprank International Vehicle Importers primarily receives JDM cars at the ports of Long Beach/Los Angeles, California. From there, we can help coordinate nationwide enclosed or open transport to your location in the US.

A - If the vehicle is already in stock in the US, there are no additional import fees. For vehicles still in Japan (or another country), contact us for an estimate on current shipping and clearing charges (sales@importavehicle.com). Typical fees include:

Purchase and transport costs in Japan, freight forwarder in Japan, THD fee, Express Mail and money order THD, ISF filing, bond and surety fee, import duty (generally 2.5% of the invoice value on passenger vehicles), merchandise processing fee, customs entry fee, and local US transport from the port.

Tariffs and fees can change over time, especially for newer vehicles and light trucks, so always confirm current numbers with us. Beware of price quotes from other importers that don't include all costs. If a car arrives in the USA and money is due, you must pay those costs or risk losing your car.

A - Values change constantly and depend heavily on the specific model (V-Spec, V-Spec II, M-Spec, Nur editions, etc.), condition, mileage, modifications, and documentation. As of now, most R34 GT-Rs in good condition trade well into six figures, and rare or collector-grade examples can reach several hundred thousand dollars or more. Check our current inventory and contact us for up-to-date pricing and guidance.

A - Our vehicles primarily arrive at the Los Angeles/Long Beach, California port. You can pick up in person at our facility, or we can arrange trucking to your location in the US for an additional cost. https://www.importavehicle.com/blog/nationwide-shipping-available

A - Check out this buyer's guide for things to look for. http://www.gtrusablog.com/2014/05/r32-nissan-skyline-gt-r-buyers-guide.html

A - We offer third party financing, with terms and rates dependent on your credit profile and the specific lender programs available at the time of your application. For best results we recommend:

– A strong credit score and several years of credit history
– Multiple account types in your credit history (credit cards, auto loan or other installment loan, mortgage, etc.)
– Strong payment history with few or no delinquencies

Typical loan terms are in the 60–84 month range, but exact rates and terms are determined by the lender after reviewing your application. The car you wish to purchase can be in the United States or in our inventory in Japan, as long as it is stored with us. This financing option is only available to US residents.

Please email or call us for more information: sales@importavehicle.com or 844-523-2233 https://www.importavehicle.com/blog/financing-your-dream-import-car

A - Please do — we encourage it. We want you to be 100% certain of the vehicle you are purchasing. Please call 844-523-2233 or email sales@importavehicle.com for an appointment to view a vehicle.

A - Due to California regulations, you are required to tow/transport the vehicle from our office in California unless you pay applicable California sales tax. If you pay California sales tax, you can drive away on a temporary registration.

A - TOPRANK IMPORTERS can find and buy a vehicle that is not yet 25 years old, and store it in Japan for you until it is 25 years old. Then Toprank will ship it to the US. In Japan, Toprank can handle any service or modifications you are looking to do. Buy now to lock in prices today.

The R34 GT-R and Silvia S15 are two of the most popular cars reaching 25-year eligibility from 2024 through 2027 (1999–2002 production), but there are many others. From the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI to the AP1 S2000 and numerous Y2K-era cars, we can sell you your JDM dream car. How to Buy and Store an R34 GT-R in Japan until it is 25 years old
Browse R34 GT-Rs for sale  |  Browse Silvia S15s for sale

Every company handles insurance differently. Where you live, how long you have been driving, and the value of the vehicle are all factors. It is best to contact your insurance company directly to find out how they will handle insurance for your imported vehicle. https://www.importavehicle.com/blog/insuring-your-japanese-imported-car

A couple of specialty insurance companies:

http://www.americancollectors.com/

http://www.hagerty.com/

A - Every state has different title and registration requirements. It is best to check with your local laws and DMV for specific information on title and registration. Federally, for importation, vehicles over 25 years old are NHTSA exempt, and vehicles over 21 years old in original configuration are EPA exempt. That does not automatically guarantee registration in every state, but it is the federal basis for legal importation. https://www.importavehicle.com/blog/vehicle-title-and-titling-information-by-state

A - Vehicles over 25 years old are not required to meet FMVSS standards, and many imported vehicles will have shorter chassis numbers instead of a 17-digit VIN. Each state handles title and registration differently and may have specific title requirements. Please read this newsletter from the NHTSA before they "assign" a VIN to your vehicle: http://www.importavehicle.info/2014/03/can-i-have-two-vins-on-my-car-or-vin.html

A - The export certificate is the Japanese equivalent of a title. Most states require a translated copy of the export certificate as it is mostly in Japanese. That, together with your customs documents and our paperwork, is normally what your DMV will use to issue a title.

A - Yes, if we sell you the car, we can assist with the California process. California has its own EPA called the ARB (Air Resources Board), often called the California Air Resources Board. The ARB sets California requirements. California is the only state able to set its own emissions standards, separate from the Federal EPA.

Direct import (or gray market) vehicles are vehicles, 1975 or newer, that were manufactured outside the United States for which the original manufacturer did not obtain California or Federal certification. The EPA normally covers direct import vehicles under the ICI program, but if a vehicle is going to be registered in California, it needs to meet the California Direct Import requirements.

Any vehicle 1975 or newer needs to meet these standards, otherwise it is not legal to register it in California. A vehicle model year 1975 or older doesn't need a smog (in-use test) in California. 1975 would need to meet direct import requirements (FTP testing), but then would not need to be smogged after the initial direct import requirements are met. 1974 or older non-USA spec vehicles need to meet EPA requirements per 40CFR Title 85, Subpart P on the date of 11/15/1972.

http://www.importavehicle.info/2014/12/california-certification-procedures-for.html

1976 or newer needs to be smogged in California every 2 years

1975 or newer must meet Direct Import requirements (FTP testing)

1974 or older exempt from smog (in-use testing)

1968–1974 vehicles need to meet EPA requirements per 40CFR Title 85, Subpart P 11/15/1972

1967 or older are exempt from testing/import requirements

A - Each state has specific requirements for registration. Some states exempt older vehicles from emissions testing; others do not. Please check your local laws and requirements. https://www.importavehicle.com/blog/vehicle-title-and-titling-information-by-state

A - In some states, people manage to title and register almost anything. However, many states are now requiring proof of correct importation. Those states will want to see customs documentation (7501, 3461, and related forms) showing that the vehicle legally entered the country. If you can't produce this information, they may not allow you to register the car. Be very cautious with any car that has no import paperwork.

A - We are now able to bring certain cars into California emissions compliance. More information: http://toprankjdm.com/California

California has its own EPA, called the ARB (Air Resources Board), often called the California Air Resources Board. The ARB sets California requirements. California is the only state to be able to set its own emissions standards, separate from the Federal EPA. So in the case of imported (direct import) vehicles over 21 years old, while they may be Federally legal to import, the ARB controls the registration of vehicles through the California DMV. This makes this a difficult question to answer unless you go through all the questions below.

A - Often also called grey market vehicles.
§ 39024.6. Direct import vehicle
Direct import vehicle means any light-duty motor vehicle manufactured outside of the United States which was not intended by the manufacturer for sale in the United States and which was not certified by the state board pursuant to Article 1 (commencing with Section 43100) of Chapter 2 of Part 5.

Added Stats 1989 ch 859 § 1.

A - 44200. Used direct import vehicle

For purposes of this chapter, used direct import vehicle means any 1975 or later model-year direct import vehicle not required to be certified as a new direct import vehicle pursuant to this part.

For purposes of this section, the age of a motor vehicle shall be determined by the following, in descending order of preference:
(a) From the first calendar day of the model year as indicated in the vehicle identification number.
(b) From the last calendar day of the month the vehicle was delivered by the manufacturer as shown on the foreign title document.
(c) From January 1 of the same calendar year as the model year shown on the foreign title document.
(d) From the last calendar day of the month the foreign title document was issued.

Added Stats 1985 ch 1138 § 2. Amended Stats 1986 ch 248 § 154; Stats 1989 ch 859 § 6

A - § 44210. Vehicles which may be registered without certification

The requirements of Section 44202 do not apply to any motor vehicle having a certificate of conformity issued by the federal Environmental Protection Agency pursuant to the federal Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. Section 7401, et seq.) and originally registered in another state by a person who was a resident of that state for at least one year prior to the original registration, who subsequently establishes residence in this state and who, upon registration of the vehicle in California, provides evidence satisfactory to the Department of Motor Vehicles of that previous residence and registration.

Added Stats 1985 ch 1138 § 2.

A - Not without meeting EPA requirements as defined here: http://www.importavehicle.info/2014/12/california-certification-procedures-for.html 1968 model year to 1974 model year vehicles: California does not recommend the purchase or importation of these years of NON-USA vehicles, even if currently registered in another state. These vehicles require compliance with USEPA requirements in effect on the specific date of 11/15/1972. This provision, when written, was considered by the California legislature as a gradual phase-out of very dirty "non-collectable" types of imports, as this specific requirement was understood to become increasingly difficult to meet. Today, this requirement, while not impossible to meet, would require testing expenses and modifications that far exceed most vehicles' value and would make little sense from a collector’s standpoint to attempt. Some limited exemptions apply to individuals moving to California with vehicles of these years registered in their home state for at least a year before moving to California. Contact us for more information.

A - 1967 model year vehicles and older: no modifications and testing are required to register the vehicle in California.

A - 1979 model year and older vehicles with original-equipment diesel engines are exempt from Direct Import lab testing requirements. Please note that any vehicle converted to operate on diesel fuel is subject to lab testing requirements if it is a 1968 model year vehicle or newer.

For smog (in-use testing), a diesel vehicle 1997 or older is exempt from testing. So if you bring a 1997 diesel direct import, or a vehicle that was never originally sold in the USA (does not meet EPA requirements as built) and want to register it in California, it first has to go to the emissions testing lab. This testing can exceed the value of many vehicles, so not very many diesel vehicles are properly brought into California compliance.

A - California requires you to register a vehicle in California within 20 days if you are a resident of the state. https://www.chp.ca.gov/notify-chp/chp-reg-(out-of-state-registration-violators)

Are you a California resident? https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-education-and-safety/special-interest-driver-guides/new-to-california/

A - A rule permitting entry of certain nonconforming motor vehicles for purposes of “show or display” became effective on August 13, 1999. If you wish to import a vehicle for show or display, you must apply to NHTSA for permission to do so and establish that the vehicle is of such historical or technological significance that it is in the public interest to show or display the vehicle in the United States even though it would be difficult or impossible to bring the vehicle into compliance with the Federal motor vehicle safety standards.

This provision is intended to facilitate the importation of historically or technologically significant vehicles that were never certified by their manufacturer for sale in the United States. http://www.showordisplay.com/

A - First check out this list, to see if the car is on there on the approved, or not approved list. http://www.showordisplay.com/p/approved-vehicles.html In this case, the general 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R or the 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R Vspec are on the NOT approved list. Only very specific R34 GT-R variants are approved under Show or Display. Since more than 500 standard R34 GT-Rs were made and they are not on the approved list, those cars don't qualify for Show or Display and must wait for the 25-year rule.

A - In determining whether a vehicle is eligible for importation for show or display, NHTSA will consider the following factors, among others:

1. Whether a vehicle of the same make, model, and model year was manufactured and certified for sale in the United States.
2. Whether a vehicle of the same make, model, and model year has been determined eligible for importation pursuant to 49 CFR Part 593.
3. Whether the vehicle is currently in production.
4. Whether more than 500 of the vehicles were produced.
5. Whether the vehicle is a kit car, replica, or special construction vehicle.

If the answer to any of the above is affirmative, you should not expect NHTSA to grant permission for importation. If the answer to item 4 is affirmative, the applicant must establish that the vehicle is of exceptional technological and/or historical significance.

A - A vehicle eligible for Show or Display may receive NHTSA approval to be driven on the highway. The odometer must not register more than 2,500 miles in a 12-month period. NHTSA approval of limited on-road use is to allow the vehicle to be driven to and from nearby displays of similar automobiles and to maintain the vehicle's engine, braking, lighting, and other dynamic systems in good working order. The vehicle is still required to meet EPA requirements.

A - Once vehicles are 25 years old, they are no longer bound to the insurance and mileage requirements of Show or Display. At 25 years old, they can be imported under the 25-Year Rule and become FMVSS exempt for import. A Show or Display car is an FMVSS exemption but must still meet EPA requirements; at 21 years old, and in original configuration, a vehicle is EPA exempt. After 25 years, the Show or Display mileage limit does not apply — you no longer need the S&D exemption to import that car.