What are Import Forms?
Import forms are documents that are required by the DMV to show the vehicle was legally imported and that it meets EPA standards. Since Mini Trucks are generally much older vehicles, they are usually EPA exempt.
What do I need to do?
The following forms are required
U.S. Customs entry document (Form CBP7501) (Download form)
It must show the VIN/Serial Number of the vehicle
It must be stamped or completed electronically by CBP (Customs and Border Protection)
For a list of the customs entry stations where vehicles can be entered and documents obtained, visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website at http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/toolbox/contacts/ports/mt/.
Blank Form CBP7501
Completed Form CBP7501
EPA Form 3520-1 (Download Form)
This form shows that the EPA requirements are met
Vehicles 21 years old or older (2003 and older as of (1/1/24) are exempt from meeting EPA requirements, so box for “Code E” should be checked on this form.
This form gets completed by you or the customs broker.
Blank Form 3520-1
Completed Form 3520-1
DOT Declaration form (HS7) (Download Form)
The form is used to declare whether the vehicle complies with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or is exempt. Vehicles 25 years old or older are exempt. (1999 or older as of 1/1/24)
This is a form you or the shipping broker gives to Customs when the vehicle enters the country
This form gets completed by you or the customs broker.
Blank Form HS7
Completed Form HS7
The (Japanese) export certificate and English translation
This is considered the foreign vehicle title
This document must be translated to English by a certified translation company. You can find numerous websites online that can handle this for you, like THIS one.
BEFORE - Export Certificate (In Japanese)
AFTER - Export Certificate (Translated to English)
Why is this needed?
These forms are needed to ensure the vehicle can be legally registered and titled in the US.