If you’ve been eyeing a left-hand drive (LHD) car from overseas and wondering if you can import it into the United States, you’re not alone. The process of importing a car with LHD into the US involves following certain regulations and requirements set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). From determining if the car meets safety standards to ensuring it complies with emissions regulations, there are steps to take to legally bring a left-hand drive vehicle into the country. It’s important to do your research and carefully follow the guidelines to avoid any legal issues.

Can I Import a Car with Left-Hand Drive (LHD) into the United States?

Hey there! If you’re considering importing a car with left-hand drive (LHD) into the United States, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of what you need to know before you bring a left-hand drive vehicle into the country.

What is a Left-Hand Drive (LHD) Vehicle?

First things first, let’s clarify what a left-hand drive vehicle actually is. In a left-hand drive vehicle, the steering wheel is located on the left side of the car, and the driver operates the vehicle from this position. This is the standard configuration in countries where drivers drive on the right side of the road.

In the United States, vehicles are typically left-hand drive, so if you’re looking to import a car from a country where right-hand drive vehicles are the norm, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

Legal Requirements for Importing a LHD Vehicle into the US

When it comes to importing a left-hand drive vehicle into the United States, there are specific legal requirements that you’ll need to meet. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulate vehicle imports to ensure they meet safety and emissions standards.

NHTSA Requirements

The NHTSA has specific requirements that left-hand drive vehicles must meet in order to be legally imported into the United States. These requirements include compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) to ensure the vehicle is safe to operate on American roads.

Before importing a left-hand drive vehicle, you’ll need to ensure that the vehicle meets all applicable FMVSS requirements. This may involve modifications to the vehicle to bring it into compliance.

EPA Requirements

In addition to NHTSA requirements, the EPA has emissions standards that left-hand drive vehicles must meet in order to be legally imported into the United States. The EPA regulates vehicle emissions to protect public health and the environment.

Before importing a left-hand drive vehicle, you’ll need to ensure that the vehicle meets all applicable emissions standards. This may involve modifications to the vehicle to reduce its emissions.

Steps to Importing a Left-Hand Drive Vehicle into the United States

Now that you’re familiar with the legal requirements for importing a left-hand drive vehicle into the United States, let’s walk through the steps involved in the importation process.

Determine Vehicle Eligibility

The first step in importing a left-hand drive vehicle into the United States is to determine whether the vehicle is eligible for importation. Certain vehicles, such as those that are not originally manufactured for sale in the United States, may not meet the necessary requirements for importation.

Before importing a left-hand drive vehicle, verify that the vehicle is eligible for importation under NHTSA and EPA regulations.

Obtain a Conforming Vehicle

If the left-hand drive vehicle you’re looking to import is not already in compliance with NHTSA and EPA regulations, you’ll need to ensure that the vehicle is modified to meet these requirements. This may involve retrofitting the vehicle with necessary safety and emissions equipment.

Make sure to work with a reputable importer or vehicle modifier to ensure that the modifications are done correctly and that the vehicle meets all applicable standards.

Complete Importation Documentation

When importing a left-hand drive vehicle into the United States, you’ll need to complete various documentation to comply with importation requirements. This may include obtaining an Importer Identification Number (IIN) from the CBP, as well as completing customs forms and other paperwork.

Make sure to gather all necessary documentation and submit it accurately to avoid any delays or issues with the importation process.

Pay Import Duties and Fees

In addition to meeting NHTSA and EPA requirements, you’ll also need to pay any applicable import duties and fees when bringing a left-hand drive vehicle into the United States. The amount of import duties and fees will vary depending on the value of the vehicle and other factors.

Be sure to budget for these costs when considering importing a left-hand drive vehicle into the United States to avoid any surprises along the way.

Register the Vehicle

Once your left-hand drive vehicle has cleared customs and is officially imported into the United States, you’ll need to register the vehicle in the state where you reside. This involves obtaining a title, registration, and license plates for the vehicle.

Make sure to follow the registration requirements in your state to ensure that your left-hand drive vehicle is legal to operate on the road.

Conclusion

Importing a left-hand drive vehicle into the United States involves meeting specific legal requirements set by the NHTSA and EPA. By following the steps outlined in this article and ensuring that your vehicle meets all necessary safety and emissions standards, you can successfully import a left-hand drive vehicle into the country.

If you’re considering importing a left-hand drive vehicle, be sure to do your research and work with reputable professionals who can assist you throughout the importation process. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can enjoy driving your left-hand drive vehicle on American roads in no time.