New York: titling an imported car

New York can require imports to meet state safety and emissions standards even when federally exempt, and has a specific kei-class rule.

Sources checked 2026-10-17. Not legal advice; rules change.

At a glance

• Import ease (where verified): Official sources state barriers or hold-ups for typical 25-year imports. DMV can require state safety/emissions compliance even when federally exempt, and will not title kei-class vehicles without proof of FMVSS/EPA compliance.
• Kei / mini-truck: Official source allows it only with stated limits. NY DMV will not register or title a Kei-class vehicle unless the applicant proves it was brought into compliance with the applicable FMVSS and EPA requirements.

What the official sources say

1. The vehicle must clear U.S. CBP and comply with NYS safety and emissions standards; DMV can require this even if the vehicle meets or is exempt from federal standards.
   Source: NY DMV: Register an Imported Vehicle
2. DMV will not register or title any Kei-class vehicle unless the applicant provides proof it was brought into compliance with the applicable FMVSS and EPA emission requirements in effect when it was manufactured (see the DMV page for exact wording).
   Source: NY DMV: Register an Imported Vehicle
3. Required: acceptable CBP documents, acceptable proof of ownership, certified English translation of non-English documents, and the other standard registration/title documents.
   Source: NY DMV: Register an Imported Vehicle
4. DMV accepts these CBP documents for an imported vehicle: Form 368, 7523, 3299, 3311, 7501 (Entry Summary) and 6059B (Customs Declaration).
   Source: NY DMV: Register an Imported Vehicle
5. Accepted ownership proof includes an MCO (new vehicle made for export to the U.S.), a manufacturer's invoice (new vehicle not made for the U.S., never registered), or a certificate of title or equivalent for a used vehicle; DMV can require a statement from the foreign authority that the document is equivalent to a title.
   Source: NY DMV: Register an Imported Vehicle

Not verified (do not rely on ImportClock for these)

• The page does not define 'Kei-class' or say whether NY applies the kei rule to cars that are 25+ years old; confirm with NY DMV before buying any Daihatsu/Suzuki/other kei car.
• The DMV page does not state what NYS safety/emissions standards an exempt 25-year-old car must meet; the page only says DMV can require them.

All states