Import Regulations for Car Shipping to USA

Shipping a car from the UK to the USA is straightforward for vehicles 25 years or older — these are exempt from EPA emissions and DOT safety compliance under the 25-Year Rule and qualify for the 2.5% base duty rate. UK-manufactured vehicles under 25 years old, within the annual 100,000-vehicle quota under the US-UK Economic Prosperity Deal, pay a combined 10% tariff. Vehicles under 25 years old that were not manufactured for the US market face complex and often prohibitively expensive compliance requirements. Confirm your vehicle’s eligibility before committing to any shipment.

The 25-Year Rule: The Most Important Regulation for UK Car Exports to the USA

The 25-Year Rule is the single most significant regulation for anyone importing a vehicle from the UK into the United States. It is enforced jointly by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) and has been the cornerstone of classic British car exports to America for decades.

What Does the 25-Year Rule Actually Mean?

The rule states that any vehicle manufactured 25 years or more before the date of its US customs entry is exempt from EPA emissions standards and DOT Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. A vehicle that meets this threshold can be imported into the United States without modification, provided it is in a safe and roadworthy condition.

How Is the 25-Year Threshold Calculated?

The 25-year threshold is calculated from the month and year of manufacture — not the model year, not the UK registration date. A vehicle manufactured in October 2001 becomes eligible for straightforward US import from October 2026. A vehicle manufactured in July 2001 becomes eligible from July 2026. The specific manufacture month matters.

Which UK Cars Benefit Most from the 25-Year Rule?

This rule makes the USA one of the most accessible international markets for classic and vintage British vehicles. A 1970s Land Rover Series III, a 1980s Jaguar XJS, a 1990s Lotus Elise, a right-hand drive Subaru Impreza from the early 2000s — all of these become eligible for clean, modification-free import once they reach the 25-year threshold. The UK’s reputation for producing desirable classics, combined with American enthusiasm for British cars, makes this one of the most commercially active routes ShipCars manages.

For all 25-year-exempt vehicles, you will declare the exemption on DOT Form HS-7 at US customs entry. Your US customs broker will handle this as standard procedure.

Vehicles Under 25 Years Old: A Different Picture

Importing a vehicle less than 25 years old from the UK to the USA is significantly more complex, substantially more expensive, and in many cases not feasible at all.

Vehicles under 25 years old that were not manufactured to US specifications must be brought into compliance with all applicable EPA and DOT standards. This process must be carried out by a Registered Importer — a company specifically licensed by NHTSA to import and modify non-compliant vehicles. The modifications required to bring a European-specification vehicle into US compliance can include changes to the lighting system, bumper height, seatbelt configuration, airbag calibration, speedometer conversion, and exhaust emissions systems. The cost of this work, including the RI’s certification fee, commonly runs to several thousand pounds and in many cases exceeds the vehicle’s value.

Can Every Vehicle Under 25 Years Old Be Made Compliant?

Not all vehicles under 25 years old can be made compliant even with a Registered Importer. Some models have EPA or DOT incompatibilities that cannot be resolved within the bounds of the regulatory framework. Before committing to any shipment of a sub-25-year vehicle, verify with a US Registered Importer that your specific vehicle can be brought into compliance and obtain a cost estimate in writing.

Ship Cars Ltd  strongly advises against attempting to import non-exempt modern vehicles without confirmed RI engagement and a clear compliance pathway. The consequences of importing a non-compliant vehicle range from storage costs during the compliance process to mandatory exportation at your cost, or in extreme cases, destruction of the vehicle by US authorities.

The Three US Governing Agencies

Three separate federal agencies are involved in any vehicle import into the United States. Understanding what each does and when it becomes relevant removes a significant amount of confusion from the process.

All three agencies are involved in every import. CBP is the point of contact at the port. EPA and DOT involvement is handled through the documentation your US customs broker submits on your behalf. For 25-year-exempt vehicles, this is largely a paperwork exercise. For sub-25-year vehicles, EPA and DOT involvement is substantive and requires active engagement.

Import Duty: What You Actually Pay in 2026

The duty rate for UK vehicles importing into the USA changed fundamentally in June 2025. The article you may have read before this one including earlier versions of this page — stated 2.5% as the duty rate for passenger vehicles. That figure was the pre-2025 MFN base rate. It is no longer the complete picture.

Under Executive Order 14309 (signed June 16, 2025), implementing the US-UK Economic Prosperity Deal, a new tariff structure applies to UK-origin vehicle imports. This executive order is confirmed in CBP Quota Bulletins QB 25-508 and QB 26-508 and is the operative framework for all UK-to-USA vehicle imports in 2026.

Current duty structure (verified September 2026):

The manufacturing origin distinction is critical. The 10% preferential rate applies exclusively to vehicles that are products of the United Kingdom — meaning manufactured in the UK. A Toyota Land Cruiser registered in the UK but built in Japan, a BMW 3 Series registered in the UK but built in Germany, a Volvo registered in the UK but built in Belgium — none of these qualify for the 10% quota rate. They pay 27.5%.

To determine whether your vehicle qualifies as UK-origin, check the VIN. The first character of the VIN indicates the country of manufacture: S indicates the United Kingdom. Always confirm with your US customs broker.

Source: Executive Order 14309, Federal Register Vol. 90, No. 123 (June 30, 2025); CBP Quota Bulletins QB 25-508 and QB 26-508. Verify current quota status at cbp.gov before shipping.

Step-by-Step Import Process

Step 1: Pre-Shipment Eligibility Check

This is the most critical step. Do not ship your vehicle until you have confirmed eligibility.

Confirm the vehicle’s manufacture date from the VIN plate or manufacturer’s certificate. If it is 25 years or older, you can proceed with confidence. If it is under 25 years old, contact a US Registered Importer before booking shipping. Obtain confirmation in writing that the vehicle can be brought into US compliance and a firm cost estimate for the work.

Confirm the vehicle’s country of manufacture to determine the applicable duty rate. If the vehicle is UK-manufactured, confirm current quota availability with your US customs broker.

Step 2: UK Export Preparation

ShipCars manages the UK-side of your shipment as part of every booking. This includes DVLA notification, HMRC export customs declaration through the Customs Declaration Service, UK port handling, and ocean freight.

For the complete UK export process including DVLA V5C notification and what happens at the UK port, see: How to Export a Car from the UK

Step 3: US Customs Entry and Documentation

Once your vehicle arrives at the US port, your appointed US customs broker files an entry with CBP. Ship Cars works with a network of trusted US customs brokers and can make introductions. The documents required at US customs entry are:

The original Bill of Lading, issued by the shipping line and provided to you by Ship Cars before the vessel sails. The original purchase invoice or bill of sale showing the vehicle’s value — this is what CBP uses to calculate duty. The UK V5C logbook or title document as proof of ownership. EPA Form 3520-1, declaring the vehicle’s EPA status — for 25-year vehicles, this will note the age-based exemption. DOT Form HS-7, declaring the vehicle’s DOT status — for 25-year vehicles, this will declare the Box 6 exemption. CBP Form 7501 (Entry Summary), filed by your customs broker.

Your customs broker will prepare the EPA and DOT forms based on the vehicle details you provide. Their fee for managing the US customs entry is separate from ShipCars’ UK-side shipping quote.

Step 4: Paying Import Duty

CBP assesses and collects import duty before releasing the vehicle. The applicable rate depends on the vehicle’s origin and age as described in the duty table above. Duty is calculated on the customs value — the purchase price including the cost of shipping and insurance to the US port.

For a 25-year-exempt vehicle valued at £20,000 with £2,000 shipping costs, the customs value is approximately £22,000 and the duty at 2.5% is approximately £550.

For a UK-manufactured modern vehicle valued at £20,000 with £2,000 shipping, within the annual quota at 10%, the duty is approximately £2,200.

Step 5: State-Level Registration

Clearing federal customs with CBP is only part of the process. You must then register and title the vehicle in your US state of residence. Each state operates independently and sets its own requirements.

The typical state registration process involves presenting your CBP release documents and proof of ownership to your local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles), completing the state’s vehicle registration application, paying state registration fees and any applicable state sales tax, and in many states presenting the vehicle for a physical inspection to verify the VIN.

Some states also require a state-level emissions inspection or safety inspection. These requirements vary considerably — California has the most stringent emissions standards in the USA, while other states accept any federally compliant vehicle without additional state inspection. Research your destination state’s specific DMV requirements before shipping.

Many US states offer special antique or historic vehicle registration categories for older vehicles, which can carry tax advantages, reduced registration fees, and in some cases exemption from annual safety or emissions inspections. The qualifying age varies by state — typically 25 or 30 years — and these registrations often come with mileage restrictions for personal use rather than daily driving.

Right-Hand Drive Vehicles: The US Position

There is no federal prohibition on importing right-hand drive vehicles into the United States. CBP will clear an RHD vehicle without restriction, and RHD cars are specifically addressed in the 25-year exemption framework.

At the state level, the position varies. Most US states have no practical barrier to registering a classic British RHD car. A small number of states impose additional inspection requirements on RHD vehicles, and some require specialist modifications such as a passenger-side mirror that meets the state’s visibility requirements. Insurance for RHD vehicles can sometimes be more expensive or may require a specialist provider rather than a standard US insurer.

The practical position for most classic British car enthusiasts shipping to the USA is straightforward. British cars with UK VIN numbers, documented UK histories, and verifiable manufacture dates import cleanly under the 25-year exemption, register in most states without complication, and insure readily through specialist classic car insurance providers in the US market.

Transit Times: UK to USA

ShipCars operates regular RoRo services from UK departure ports to multiple US East and West Coast ports. Current transit times from ShipCars’ live sailing schedule:

Halifax, Canada is included because it represents the fastest North America port option from the UK and is frequently used by buyers with final destinations in the US Northeast, where Halifax combined with road transport to the US border can be faster than a direct US East Coast sailing. Confirm with ShipCars whether this routing suits your final destination.

For the complete transit time breakdown covering 60-plus destinations: How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car from the UK?

Special Considerations for Vintage and Classic British Cars

The 25-Year Rule makes the USA one of the most welcoming major markets for classic British cars. British vehicles carry particular prestige in the American market — Land Rover, Jaguar, Aston Martin, MG, Triumph, Lotus, and Austin-Healey all have strong followings and active owners’ communities across the USA.

Several factors are worth noting for classic car shipments specifically.

Does Documentation and Provenance Affect Value at US Customs?

Documentation and provenance add value. A well-documented history — original V5C, previous MOT certificates, restoration records, period photographs — is valuable both at US customs (where it supports your declared value) and in the eventual US sale or registration. British cars with complete UK documentation are more desirable to American buyers than those without.

Container shipping is recommended for high-value classics. While ShipCars’ RoRo service is safe and professional, a sealed dedicated container provides maximum protection for concours-condition or high-value vehicles during the Atlantic crossing. For any vehicle where cosmetic condition is critical to value, dedicated container shipping is the appropriate choice.

State antique registration provides long-term benefits. Many states offer historic or antique registration plates for vehicles over 25 or 30 years old, with reduced fees and in some cases fewer ongoing compliance requirements. Classic British car owners often register under these schemes rather than standard vehicle registration.

What Are the Biosecurity Requirements for Shipping a Classic Car to the USA?

The biosecurity position for the USA is significantly less demanding than for Australia or New Zealand. While the vehicle should be reasonably clean, the USA does not impose the same stringent biosecurity cleaning requirements that Australian and New Zealand authorities apply. A normally maintained vehicle arriving at a US port will not typically face biosecurity complications.

Prohibited and Restricted Vehicles

Certain vehicles cannot be imported into the USA or face significant restrictions.

Vehicles under 25 years old that do not meet EPA and DOT standards and cannot feasibly be brought into compliance by a Registered Importer cannot be imported for road use. They may be imported for display or show purposes only, under a bond, but cannot be registered or driven on US roads.

Stolen vehicles will be seized by CBP and US law enforcement at the point of entry. A full UK history check including Motor Insurance Anti-Fraud and Theft Register clearance is strongly recommended before purchasing any vehicle specifically for export.

Vehicles with outstanding safety recalls must have all open recalls addressed before importation. CBP cross-references the VIN against the NHTSA recall database. A vehicle entering with an open recall may be held until the recall is resolved.

Vehicles exceeding one per person per year may trigger commercial importer requirements. The USA limits personal vehicle imports to one vehicle per individual per year. Importing more than one vehicle in a calendar year requires the importer to be registered as a commercial importer. Dealers and traders purchasing multiple UK classics for the US market should confirm their compliance position with a US customs attorney before proceeding.

Your Pre-Shipment Action Plan

Before confirming any UK-to-USA vehicle shipment with ShipCars, work through this checklist in sequence.

Step 1 — Confirm the Manufacture Date

One: confirm the manufacture date. Calculate from the VIN plate or manufacturer’s records. If the vehicle is 25 years or older, proceed. If under 25 years, engage a Registered Importer before proceeding.

Step 2 — Determine the Country of Manufacture

Two: determine the country of manufacture from the VIN. If UK-manufactured (VIN beginning S), the 10% quota rate may apply — confirm current quota availability with your US customs broker. If non-UK-manufactured, budget for 27.5% duty.

Step 3 — Gather Your Documentation

Three: gather your documentation. Original V5C, original purchase invoice, service and restoration records, marine insurance certificate. For 25-year vehicles, any documentation confirming the precise manufacture date.

Step 4 — Select Your US Port

Four: select your US port. ShipCars can advise on the most efficient port for your final destination. East Coast ports serve the most US population centres and have the shortest transit times. West Coast ports serve California and the Pacific Northwest. Consider Halifax for the US Northeast.

Step 5 — Appoint a US Customs Broker

Five: appoint a US customs broker. This is not optional — CBP requires a licensed broker to file your customs entry. ShipCars works with a network of trusted US customs brokers and can make introductions.

Step 6 — Research Your State DMV Requirements

Six: research your state DMV requirements. Before the vehicle arrives, confirm what your destination state requires for title, registration, insurance, and any inspection. Do not assume federal CBP clearance is all you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 25-Year Rule for importing a car to the USA?

The 25-Year Rule exempts vehicles manufactured 25 years or more before the date of US customs entry from EPA emissions standards and DOT Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Exempt vehicles can be imported without modification and pay only the 2.5% base duty rate, exempt from Section 232 tariffs. For 2026 imports, this applies to vehicles with a confirmed manufacture date of October 2001 or earlier. The rule is calculated from manufacture month and year, not registration date.

What import duty do I pay on a car shipped from the UK to the USA?

Under Executive Order 14309 (June 2025), UK-manufactured vehicles within the annual 100,000-vehicle quota pay a combined 10% tariff — 2.5% MFN base plus 7.5% Section 232. Above the quota the rate reverts to 27.5%. Vehicles 25 years or older pay only 2.5% base duty, exempt from Section 232. The 10% quota rate applies only to vehicles manufactured in the UK — not all UK-registered vehicles. Confirm manufacturing origin and current quota status with your US customs broker before shipping.

Do I need to modify my UK car to import it to the USA?

Only if the vehicle is under 25 years old and was not originally manufactured to US specification. Vehicles over 25 years are exempt from EPA and DOT compliance and import without modification. Vehicles under 25 years old must be modified by a Registered Importer to meet US standards — a process that is expensive and not always possible for all models.

Can I register a right-hand drive UK car in the USA?

Yes. There is no federal prohibition on RHD vehicles. CBP clears RHD cars without restriction. Most US states have no practical barrier to registering a classic British RHD car. A small number of states have additional inspection requirements. Some insurers charge higher premiums for RHD vehicles or require specialist coverage.

Related Guides

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car from the UK to the USA?

How to Export a Car from the UK

How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car from the UK?

Car Shipping Documents Required

Classic Car Shipping from the UK

Ship Your Vehicle to the USA with Ship Cars Ltd

ShipCars has managed UK-to-USA vehicle shipments for over a decade. We understand the 25-Year Rule and the 2026 duty framework inside out, and we work with a trusted network of US customs brokers to ensure your vehicle clears CBP without delays.

Call 01495 320540, email info@shipcars.co.uk, or use the online quote form. Quotes are returned within 30 minutes during business hours.