Buying A Canadian Car In The Us May 2026
: Vehicles 25 years or older are exempt from most DOT and EPA requirements, significantly simplifying the process. Customs Process & Documentation
: The "Entry Summary" provided after clearing customs, which is required by the DMV.
To buy a Canadian car and permanently bring it into the U.S., you must navigate a formal importation process involving federal safety and emissions compliance, customs duties, and state-level registration. buying a canadian car in the us
You must declare the vehicle at a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Port of Entry . : DOT Form HS-7 : Declares safety compliance. EPA Form 3520-1 : Declares emissions compliance.
: The undercarriage must be free of foreign soil to pass U.S. Department of Agriculture inspections. Costs and Duties : Vehicles 25 years or older are exempt
: Check under the hood for a "Vehicle Emission Control Information" label. If missing, you need a letter of compliance from the manufacturer.
Importing a Motor Vehicle | U.S. Customs and Border Protection You must declare the vehicle at a U
: Original Canadian title, registration, and a Bill of Sale showing the VIN and purchase price.

