Luckily Tanin JDM handles the title registration process for you. It’s one of the great benefits we provide with a all-inclusive pricing. We decipher and expedite the customs clearance process and handle the DMV paperwork. In the end we receive the, “golden ticket” or vehicle title that comes with your new JDM vehicle. We can usually get the new vehicle title before the car even leaves Japan.
How to register the car in California
Unfortunately, California is very difficult and restrictive when it comes to importing JDM vehicles. There are some ways to do it, but the first step is that you must have a title from another state already. We are not aware of being able to send Japanese paperwork to the CA DMV and have them issue a title for your car unless it’s done through a registered importer as discussed below. If you live in California and want to register your car in California, Tanin JDM provides you with on out of state title for your JDM vehicle to save time and money.
The Pre-1997 diesel exemption
It is possible to register vehicles prior to 1997, that are diesels, in California. This thread on reddit, How to Register your diesel in California, provides insight and hope. Owners have had success with private VIN verification and an out of state title. Once these items are obtained you should be able to receive a California title for your Pre-1997 diesel vehicle. You will not have to smog your vehicle.
California emissions compliance
If your JDM vehicle is not a diesel and it is newer than 1975 you will have to bring the car up to California emission standards and compliance. There is only one certified, emissions testing lab in the world. The car then receives a California BAR label and then it can be smog tested every two years going forward. G&K Automotive Conversion in Santa Ana, CA is the place you need to contact. They can quote the costs involved if you really want to register and title your car in California. The cost is not cheap however. Expect to pay anywhere from $5000 to $15000 to make your JDM car California compliant.
Registration and Title in other states
The easiest way to register your JDM car is to simply use another state. There are many states that will allow you to be a non-resident and register your vehicle. They will happily issue a title and plates. Common states to register your car as a non-resident include Montana, Florida, Vermont, South Dakota, Arizona, Washington. If you are registering in a sales tax state then you will have to pay that amount along with the title and registration costs. If a state does not have sales tax then you won’t need to pay sales tax on your purchase price. Do you know of any other states you can register in?
NHTSA and EPA limits
Federal law states as long as the car is 25 years or older then the imported car is exempt from vehicle safety (FMVSS), theft standards, and EPA emissions regulations. Some states may or may not follow federal guidelines. The states listed above allow registration of these cars.
Insurance for your JDM car
While it may seem more complicated, insuring your JDM car is actually one of the easiest steps. There are many carriers that will insure your JDM vehicle as a collector car and use a stated or agreed value. What this means is that if there is damage or a loss they will pay out the full purchase amount. This is important since you can’t really buy replacement parts for a Japanese car in the USA and body shops can’t really help you. The best part about collector policies is that it can only cost a couple hundred bucks a year.
We highly recommend Matt Nelson at American Advantage Insurance Group in Wisconsin. He always impresses us with coverage amounts and the ability to insure the most obscure cars. You can email him here: mattn@AmerAdv.com
