How to Import a Car to the USA: HS-7, EPA 3520-1, CBP Forms & Costs
Importing a car to the USA involves navigating federal safety and emissions rules, completing the right Customs and Border Protection (CBP) forms, and budgeting for duties, tariffs, and port fees.
Importing a car to the USA involves navigating federal safety and emissions rules, completing the right Customs and Border Protection (CBP) forms, and budgeting for duties, tariffs, and port fees. Whether you're bringing in a classic JDM sports car, a European sedan, or a Canadian-market SUV, this guide walks you through every step—from HS-7 and EPA 3520-1 declarations to total landed costs and state titling.
Why Importing a Car to the USA Is Complicated
The United States has among the strictest vehicle import regulations in the world. Two federal agencies control whether your car can enter: the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for emissions compliance and the Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA/DOT) for safety standards.
At the port of entry, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforces these rules and collects duties, tariffs, and fees. If your vehicle doesn't meet EPA or DOT requirements, it can be denied entry, exported, or destroyed—unless you work with a Registered Importer (RI) to modify it.
Understanding the forms, age exemptions, and cost structure upfront saves you from costly mistakes. Let's break it down.
Key Forms You Must File: HS-7, EPA 3520-1, and CBP Entry
DOT Form HS-7 (Safety Declaration)
The HS-7 Declaration tells CBP whether your vehicle complies with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). You must file this form at the time of importation.
HS-7 Boxes Explained:
| Box | When to Use |
|---|---|
| Box 1 | Vehicle is 25 years or older (exempt from FMVSS). |
| Box 2A | Vehicle bears a U.S. certification label from the original manufacturer stating it meets all FMVSS. |
| Box 2B | Vehicle was originally manufactured to U.S. standards but lacks the label (requires manufacturer letter). |
| Box 3 | Nonconforming vehicle being imported by or under contract with a Registered Importer (RI) for modification. |
| Box 4 | Temporary importation by non-residents (must be exported within 1 year). |
| Box 5 | Diplomatic or military personnel importing under special provisions. |
| Box 6 | Emergency vehicles imported under specific exemptions. |
| Box 7 | Temporary importation for testing, demonstration, or evaluation (requires NHTSA approval). |
| Box 8 | Conforming vehicle imported under a pre-approval letter from NHTSA. |
| Box 9 | Other (requires explanation and supporting documentation). |
Where to get it: Download the HS-7 form from the NHTSA website.
EPA Form 3520-1 (Emissions Declaration)
The EPA Form 3520-1 declares how your vehicle meets U.S. emissions standards under the Clean Air Act. This form is required for almost all motor vehicle imports, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and kit cars.
EPA 3520-1 Import Codes:
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| A | Vehicle manufactured by a U.S. manufacturer and covered by an EPA certificate of conformity. |
| B | U.S.-certified, unmodified vehicle bearing an EPA emission control label in the engine compartment. |
| C | U.S.-certified vehicle with catalyst restoration (original catalyst replaced with certified unit). |
| D | Vehicle imported under an Independent Commercial Importer (ICI) program. |
| E | Vehicle is 21 years or older (calendar year of manufacture subtracted from year of importation) and in original, unmodified configuration. |
| F | U.S.-certified vehicle with catalyst restoration and other emission control modifications. |
| G | Vehicle imported under an exemption or exclusion (requires EPA written approval). |
| H | Heavy-duty vehicle or engine (must use EPA Form 3520-21 instead for off-road). |
| I | Vehicle imported for testing purposes under 40 CFR 85.1511(b)(2) (requires EPA approval). |
| K, L, M-3, O | Other specialized exemptions or exclusions (all require written EPA authorization). |
Critical note: Although only codes G, I, K, L, M-3, and O require written EPA approval attached to the form, CBP may request documentation for any import code.
Where to get it: Download EPA Form 3520-1 from the EPA website.
CBP Form 7501 (Entry Summary)
Your customs broker files CBP Form 7501 to declare the vehicle's value, classify it under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), and calculate duties and taxes. You'll need this form later when registering the vehicle with your state's DMV.
Importer Security Filing (ISF) – "10+2 Rule"
If your vehicle arrives by ocean freight, you or your broker must file an Importer Security Filing (ISF) at least 24 hours before loading at the foreign port. Missing this deadline triggers a $5,000 penalty.
ISF filing cost: $25–$150 through a broker.
Vehicle Eligibility: Age Rules and Exemptions
The 25-Year Rule (DOT/NHTSA Safety Exemption)
A motor vehicle that is at least 25 years old can be imported without regard to FMVSS compliance. You declare this under Box 1 on the HS-7 form.
Example (2026): A 2001 Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34) becomes eligible in 2026 (2026 – 2001 = 25 years).
The 21-Year Rule (EPA Emissions Exemption)
A vehicle that is at least 21 years old and in original, unmodified configuration is exempt from EPA emissions requirements. You declare this under Code E on EPA Form 3520-1.
Important: If the engine has been replaced, the new engine must be the same model as originally installed, or an EPA-certified engine from a vehicle no older than the one being imported.
Example (2026): A 2005 Toyota Supra (2026 – 2005 = 21 years) qualifies for Code E if it retains its original 2JZ-GTE engine.
U.S.-Certified Vehicles (Canadian-Market Cars)
If a vehicle was originally manufactured to U.S. standards and bears both:
- A U.S. EPA emission control label in the engine compartment, and
- A U.S. DOT certification label on the driver's door jamb,
it can be imported as a conforming vehicle under Box 2A (HS-7) and Code B (EPA 3520-1).
Many Canadian-market vehicles meet this criterion, making them the easiest to import.
Nonconforming Vehicles (Under 25 Years Old)
If your vehicle is under 25 years old and does not bear U.S. certification labels, it is nonconforming and generally cannot be imported unless:
- You contract with a NHTSA-registered importer (RI) to modify it to U.S. standards, and
- You post a bond equal to 150% of the vehicle's dutiable value to ensure modifications are completed within 120 days of entry.
Only an RI can perform these modifications and certify compliance. The list of active RIs is published on the NHTSA website.
Reality check: Modification costs often exceed the vehicle's value, making this route impractical for most personal imports.
Duties, Tariffs, and Total Import Costs (2026)
Importing a car to the USA involves multiple layers of costs: base duty, Section 232 tariffs, port fees, broker fees, and state taxes. Here's what to budget.
Federal Duties and Tariffs
| Vehicle Type | Base Duty (MFN) | Section 232 Tariff (2025–2026) | Effective Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger cars | 2.5% | 25% (15% cap for EU, Japan, South Korea) | Up to 27.5% |
| Light trucks, pickups | 25% ("Chicken Tax") | 25% additional (may apply) | 25–50% |
| Motorcycles | 0–2.4% (engine size dependent) | 25% may apply | Varies |
| Vehicles 25+ years old | 2.5% (cars), 25% (trucks) | Exempt from Section 232 | 2.5% or 25% |
Section 232 Tariff Note: Since April 3, 2025, a 25% national security tariff applies to most imported passenger vehicles and light trucks under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. Some trading partners (EU, Japan, South Korea) have negotiated 15% caps.
Additional Federal Fees
| Fee | Amount (FY 2026) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) | 0.3464% of entry value (min $33.58, max $651.50) | Applies to formal entries |
| Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF) | 0.125% of cargo value | Ocean freight only |
| Customs Bond | $100–$250 (single-entry) or $500–$1,000/year (continuous) | Required for all imports |
| ISF Filing | $25–$150 | Ocean freight, 24 hours before loading |
Port, Broker, and Transport Costs
| Cost Item | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Customs Brokerage | $450–$1,200 | Depends on complexity and vehicle value |
| Port Handling/Destination Charges | $300–$1,200 | Varies by port (e.g., Los Angeles, Houston, New York) |
| Inland Transport (port to home) | $500–$1,500+ | Depends on distance and transport type (open vs. enclosed) |
| Ocean Freight (from Europe/Asia) | $1,500–$4,000+ | Container vs. RoRo, origin port |
Real-World Cost Example: Importing a $40,000 JDM Sports Car (2026)
| Cost Component | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Purchase Price | $40,000 |
| Ocean Freight (Japan to Los Angeles) | $2,500 |
| Base Duty (2.5%) | $1,000 |
| Section 232 Tariff (25%) | $10,000 |
| MPF (0.3464%) | $138 |
| HMF (0.125%) | $50 |
| Customs Bond (single-entry) | $200 |
| ISF Filing | $100 |
| Customs Brokerage | $650 |
| Port Handling (LA) | $800 |
| Inland Transport (LA to Dallas) | $1,200 |
| Total Landed Cost | $56,638 |
Total import costs beyond purchase price: ~$16,638 (41.6% of vehicle value).
Note: If this were a 25-year-old classic (e.g., 2001 model in 2026), the Section 232 tariff would not apply, reducing the total to ~$46,638.
Use the Naira.autos VIN Checker Global to verify a vehicle's manufacturing year and specifications before purchasing.
Step-by-Step: How to Import a Car to the USA
Step 1: Verify Eligibility
Before buying, confirm:
- Vehicle age (25+ years for DOT exemption, 21+ for EPA exemption).
- U.S. certification labels (if under 25 years).
- Country of origin (affects Section 232 tariff rate).
Check the VIN using our Chassis Number Check tool to decode manufacturing details.
Step 2: Hire a Licensed Customs Broker
A broker handles:
- ISF filing (24 hours before loading for ocean freight).
- CBP Form 7501 entry summary.
- Duty and tariff calculations.
- Coordination with CBP at the port of entry.
Broker cost: $450–$1,200 depending on complexity.
Step 3: Arrange Shipping
Choose between:
- RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off): Cheaper, but vehicle is exposed.
- Container shipping: More expensive, but protected (recommended for classics or high-value cars).
Typical ocean freight costs (2026):
- Europe to U.S. East Coast: $1,500–$2,500
- Japan to U.S. West Coast: $2,000–$3,500
- Australia to U.S. West Coast: $3,000–$4,500
Step 4: Prepare Required Documents
Gather:
- Original bill of lading (from shipper/carrier).
- Bill of sale (proof of ownership and value).
- Foreign registration (if applicable).
- EPA Form 3520-1 (completed with correct import code).
- DOT Form HS-7 (completed with correct box).
- Manufacturer's conformity letter (if claiming Box 2B on HS-7).
- RI contract and bond (if importing nonconforming vehicle under Box 3).
Step 5: File ISF (Ocean Freight Only)
Your broker files the ISF at least 24 hours before loading at the foreign port. Missing this triggers a $5,000 penalty.
Step 6: Clear CBP at Port of Entry
At the port, your broker submits:
- HS-7 and EPA 3520-1 forms.
- CBP Form 7501 (entry summary).
- Bill of lading, bill of sale, and supporting documents.
CBP inspects the vehicle (if required), collects duties and fees, and releases the car.
Step 7: Pay Duties, Tariffs, and Fees
Your broker pays on your behalf and invoices you for:
- Base duty (2.5% for cars, 25% for trucks).
- Section 232 tariff (up to 25%).
- MPF, HMF, bond, ISF, and port fees.
Step 8: Transport Vehicle to Final Destination
Arrange inland transport from the port to your home or garage. Costs vary by distance:
- Regional (within 200 miles): $300–$600
- Cross-country: $1,000–$2,000+
Step 9: State Titling and Registration
Take the following to your state DMV:
- CBP Form 7501 (proof of legal import).
- Title or certificate of origin (from country of export).
- Bill of sale.
- EPA 3520-1 and HS-7 copies (some states require these).
- State safety/emissions inspection (if required).
Note: Some states (e.g., California, New York) have additional emissions or safety requirements beyond federal rules.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying a nonconforming vehicle under 25 years old without an RI contract.
- Filing the wrong HS-7 box or EPA code (e.g., using Box 1 for a 20-year-old car).
- Missing the ISF deadline (24 hours before ocean loading).
- Underestimating total costs (duties + tariffs + fees can exceed 40% of vehicle value).
- Assuming Canadian-market vehicles are automatically eligible (verify U.S. labels).
Tool Integration: Simplify Your Import Process
Before purchasing an imported vehicle, use these Naira.autos tools:
- VIN Checker Global: Decode the VIN to confirm manufacturing year, plant, and specifications—critical for verifying 25-year eligibility.
- Chassis Number Check: Cross-reference chassis numbers with manufacturer databases to confirm authenticity and specifications.
For vehicles already in your possession, our AI Mechanic tool can help you understand maintenance requirements and common issues for specific models.
Country-Specific Considerations
Importing from Canada
- Many Canadian vehicles are U.S.-certified and can be imported under Box 2A (HS-7) and Code B (EPA 3520-1).
- Verify the U.S. certification label on the driver's door jamb and EPA label in the engine bay.
- No Section 232 tariff applies to Canadian-origin vehicles under USMCA.
Importing from Japan (JDM Vehicles)
- Most JDM vehicles are nonconforming until they reach 25 years old.
- Popular models (e.g., Nissan Skyline GT-R, Toyota Supra, Mazda RX-7) become eligible in specific years—plan accordingly.
- Use container shipping to protect high-value classics.
Importing from Europe (Germany, UK, Italy)
- European vehicles are typically nonconforming unless U.S.-certified (e.g., BMW M3, Mercedes-AMG models sold in both markets).
- Section 232 tariff is capped at 15% for EU-origin vehicles.
- Verify emissions equipment (some Euro-spec diesels may not meet EPA standards even if 21+ years old).
Importing from Australia
- Australian-delivered vehicles are generally nonconforming and must be 25+ years old for exemption.
- Right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles are legal to import and register in most states, but may face insurance or resale challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I import a car under 25 years old if it's for personal use?
No. Personal use does not exempt you from FMVSS or EPA requirements. Vehicles under 25 years old must be U.S.-certified or modified by a Registered Importer.
What happens if CBP denies my vehicle entry?
You have three options:
- Export the vehicle within a specified timeframe (usually 30 days).
- Abandon the vehicle to CBP (you forfeit ownership).
- Modify the vehicle through an RI (if eligible and cost-effective).
Do I need to pay sales tax when importing?
Federal duties and tariffs are separate from state sales tax. You'll pay sales tax when registering the vehicle in your state, based on the purchase price or assessed value.
Can I import a right-hand drive (RHD) vehicle?
Yes. RHD vehicles are legal to import and register in all 50 states if they meet EPA and DOT requirements. However, some states may have additional restrictions on RHD vehicles for commercial use (e.g., rideshare, delivery).
How long does the import process take?
- Ocean freight: 4–8 weeks from purchase to port arrival.
- CBP clearance: 1–5 business days after arrival (if documents are complete).
- State titling: 1–4 weeks depending on state DMV processing times.
Final Checklist Before You Import
- Verify vehicle age (25+ for DOT, 21+ for EPA).
- Confirm U.S. certification labels (if under 25 years).
- Hire a licensed customs broker.
- Arrange shipping (RoRo or container).
- Complete EPA Form 3520-1 with correct code.
- Complete DOT Form HS-7 with correct box.
- File ISF (24 hours before ocean loading).
- Budget for duties, tariffs, and fees (up to 40%+ of vehicle value).
- Prepare state titling documents (CBP 7501, title, bill of sale).
Last Updated: September 2026
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, financial, or mechanical advice. Consult a qualified professional for your specific situation.