Pennsylvania: titling an imported car

Pennsylvania spells out its customs, DOT and EPA paperwork list, and says vehicles over 25 years old do not need EPA Form 3520-1.

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

At a glance

Import ease (where verified): Process documented; 25-year treatment not stated in the sources read. Rule is stated for vehicles made not more than 25 model years ago; EPA 3520-1 is not required for vehicles over 25 years old.
Kei / mini-truck: No kei or mini-truck rule found in the sources read. No kei or mini-truck rule found in the official pages read.

Vehicles made not more than 25 model years ago are subject to FMVSS and emissions requirements and cannot be titled or registered without proof of conformity; vehicles later brought into compliance get a title branded 'G' (originally manufactured for non-U.S. distribution).
Source: PennDOT Import-Export FAQs
Required: Form MV-1 from an authorized agent with VIN tracing/verification, original ownership documents (English translations; kilometers converted to miles), one of CBP 7501/3461/3461ALT showing a port-of-entry number or Customs stamp/seal, shipping documents, a completed HS-7, a copy of EPA 3520-1 given to Customs, a manufacturer letter on safety/EPA compliance, and the NHTSA bond release letter if applicable.
Source: PennDOT Import-Export FAQs
EPA Form 3520-1 is not required for imported trailers or vehicles over 25 years old. Sales tax is due on the purchase price; proof of insurance is required if registering.
Source: PennDOT Import-Export FAQs
Issuing agents may not issue a plate on an imported vehicle until PennDOT approves and processes the title application.
Source: PennDOT Import-Export FAQs

Pennsylvania safety/emissions inspection rules for imported older cars were not verified.
Whether PennDOT accepts an HS-7 box-1 (25+ years) declaration without the 'manufacturer letter' item was not stated; ask PennDOT.
Fee amounts and the PA treatment of kei vehicles were not verified.