Importing a Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) car is an exciting milestone for any enthusiast, but the next step—registering and insuring your new ride—can feel overwhelming. Each state has different rules, and California has the toughest standards in the country. This guide will walk you through the process of legally registering and insuring your JDM import in California and across the United States, while also breaking down costs, options, and insider tips.
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 clean and clear US vehicle Wisconsin title that comes with your new JDM vehicle. We can usually get the new vehicle title before the car even leaves Japan. Typically the process is as easy and signing the title and handing it to you. In the case of some states such as Montana, all they need is a picture of the front and back of our title to complete your new registration.
Understanding JDM Car Registration in the U.S.
The federal government allows JDM vehicles that are 25 years or older to be imported without meeting U.S. crash test and emissions requirements. However, once the car arrives, state laws determine how registration and emissions testing are handled.
- Some states are very friendly toward JDM imports (Montana, Florida, Texas).
- Others have stricter requirements, especially California, where you’ll need to comply with the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
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.
To register your car outside of California read our blog on Montana registration for JDM vehicles.
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. We have heard that even if you obtain registration this way they will flag it down the line and revoke it so take caution.
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?
See our blog on Montana registration for JDM vehicles.
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. He also provides quotes and coverage in many other states. You can email him here: mattn@AmerAdv.com
Progressive Insurance will also insure any JDM car for normal, everyday use just like your normal daily driver. Their rates have been $40-$80 per month depending on the year and location of the vehicle. This cannot be done online, you must speak with an agent and they can override the 17-digit VIN requirement. We have had Progressive say they can’t insure JDM cars, but if you talk to someone else they will approve it. The VIN override is the most important piece.
Hagerty Insurance seems to be hit or miss with JDM makes and models or which agent you get. We have received quotes on JDM cars from them without any issues. With any insurance company your rates may vary, but typically we are seeing between $40 – $100 per month depending on the state, amount of coverage, deductible, whether its daily driven or a pleasure vehicle and your age and driving record. Just like Progressive we had Hagerty deny coverage through one agent, but provide coverage through another agent.
You can also seek out a local independent insurance agent. The agent can use their resources and do the legwork for you. They will provide you with various options for insurance or collector insurance if none of the above options work for you. Rates through an agent typically aren’t any higher than getting a quote on your own.
Check our our cars for sale and buy your JDM car today. Contact us if you want something special and unique.
Yes, but the vehicle must meet California Air Resources Board (CARB) standards. This often requires costly modifications and emissions testing, typically ranging from $5,000 to $15,000.
Montana, Florida, South Dakota, and Texas are among the easiest states, with no smog testing or minimal import restrictions.
Yes, vehicles over 25 years old are exempt from federal safety and emissions standards. However, state laws, like California’s, may still require emissions compliance.
Progressive is a popular option for JDM owners. Collector insurance providers such as Hagerty, American Collectors, and Traction Insurance also offer tailored coverage.
If your JDM is not a daily driver, collector insurance usually offers agreed value coverage, lower premiums, and better protection for modifications.
