You generally cannot import a new car into the United States because it fails to comply with a complex set of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emissions regulations. These rules are designed specifically for the U.S. market. Even if a car sold in Europe or Japan has similar or higher safety ratings, its specific equipment—like headlights, side-impact beams, or onboard diagnostics—often differs from the exact specifications required by U.S. law.
The process of making a non-compliant vehicle compliant is called homologation. This involves costly modifications, independent testing, and certification by a Registered Importer (RI). For a single new car, this process can cost tens of thousands of dollars, far exceeding the vehicle's value, making it economically unfeasible for individuals. Furthermore, the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) maintains a list of vehicles eligible for importation; most new models are not on this list for at least 25 years due to the "25-Year Import Rule."
This rule is a key exception. It allows for the import of vehicles that are at least 25 years old without needing to meet current FMVSS standards, as they are considered collector's items. For newer cars, manufacturers must certify them for sale, a process baked into the original manufacturing for U.S.-spec models. Attempting to bypass these regulations can result in the car being refused entry, impounded, or even crushed by U.S. Customs.
| Regulatory Hurdle | Governing Body | Key Requirement | Cost Implication for Compliance |
|---|
| Safety Standards (FMVSS) | NHTSA | Specific crash test protocols, airbag systems, headlight patterns, side-impact protection. | $10,000 - $30,000+ for modifications and testing. |
| Emissions Standards | EPA | Conformity with U.S. tailpipe emissions limits and onboard diagnostics (OBD-II). | $5,000 - $15,000+ for catalyst and ECU modifications. |
| Theft Prevention Standards | NHTSA | Required anti-theft devices and parts marking. | Varies, but adds to the overall cost and complexity. |
| Homologation Process | Via a Registered Importer (RI) | Extensive paperwork, physical modifications, and crash testing. | High fees for the RI's services and bond requirements. |
| 25-Year Import Rule | NHTSA | Vehicle must be 25 years or older from its manufacturing date. | No compliance costs if rule is met; primary cost is shipping. |
