title: "The 25-Year Import Rule, Explained" description: "Why most JDM cars become legal to import to the US at 25 years old, and what that means for buyers."

The 25-Year Import Rule, Explained

US law (the Imported Vehicle Safety Compliance Act) bars importing a vehicle that was not built to US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards — unless it is at least 25 years old, measured from the month of manufacture. Once a car crosses that line it can be imported as a "show or display" / historic vehicle, exempt from FMVSS and most EPA requirements.

This is why a 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 became broadly importable in 2024, and why the importers in this directory track build months closely. Work with a specialist who handles customs (CBP form 7501), DOT (HS-7) and EPA (3520-1) paperwork so the car clears without surprises.