How Long Can a Foreign Car Stay in the US?

1. US Car Import Regulations
2. Motor Vehicle Requirements
3. Emission standards
4. U.S Customs and Border Protection
5. Foreign licenses
6. License plates
7. Identification cards
8. Ask the Pros

Foreign cars are a popular choice among American drivers, but what happens when it's time to move abroad or sell the vehicle? One question that often arises is how long a foreign car can stay in the US.

A foreign car's stay in the US depends on various factors, including its owner's residency status and compliance with US regulations. There are different regulations for temporary visitors, students and permanent residents.

In this article, we'll look into all of the factors governing how long foreign cars may stay on US streets and steps owners can take to comply with US laws and regulations.

US Car Import Regulations

This article seeks to educate readers on how long foreign cars may remain in the US as well as any regulations and requirements regarding importation into this country.

Anyone looking to import a foreign car into the United States must follow strict regulations and requirements, including a thorough import process and emission standards.

These regulations are enforced by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and failure to comply can result in penalties and possible seizure of the vehicle.

The duration a foreign car can stay in the United States will depend on several factors including:

• Import documents
• Purchase price
• Emissions requirements
• Safety standards
• Valid passport
• Driver's license
• Additional documentation

A foreign car can stay in the United States for a maximum of 12 months. The duration is calculated from the date of entry and the vehicle must be exported within that period.

It is possible to extend this period, but it requires special permission from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The extension may only be granted in exceptional circumstances such as medical or military reasons.

In addition to the duration, foreign car owners must also comply with other regulations such as emissions and safety standards.

Imported vehicles must meet all U.S. emission and safety regulations before being permitted for import into the country. Owners must present valid passports, driver's licenses and import documents as evidence that their vehicle complies with U.S. regulations and meets ownership.

As with any trip that involves vehicles, whether renting one for rent or importing personal ones into the U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations.

In either situation it's essential that one prepares early so as to prevent issues later.

Motor Vehicle Requirements

Importing motor vehicles into the United States must meet strict regulations for citizen safety, so foreign drivers and visitors must consider several aspects, including emissions standards, registration of their vehicle with authorities and licensing procedures before driving on US soil.

Emission standards

Before you import a foreign vehicle into the U.S., it's crucial that you understand which emission standards must be fulfilled for its acceptance into service.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations mandate all imported vehicles meet US air pollution standards; to achieve this goal they must have installed appropriate emission control systems that ensure it satisfies them.

There are various methods available for verifying whether a foreign vehicle complies, providing evidence of compliance.

One approach would be to compare it with versions currently sold in the US as these vehicles already meet EPA certification criteria.

An alternative method is to look for the vehicle emissions label, which provides detailed information regarding its emissions system and can usually be found under the hood or on the driver-side door jamb.

Vehicles not sold directly in the US but still meeting US emission standards may obtain a written statement from their US representative that verifies they meet emission regulations as proof for customs officials. This statement serves as evidence.

Note that EPA regulations only apply to vehicles 21 years or newer at entry into the US. There may also be exceptions based on modifications for disabled individuals or modified versions designed specifically to assist their use.

Additional paperwork may be needed for these vehicles in order to demonstrate compliance with US emission standards.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) of the U.S. plays a pivotal role in the process of importation for foreign cars into America, upholding regulations concerning this importation while making certain all vehicles comply with all relevant laws and regulations.

Importing a foreign car into the U.S. involves getting approval from customs officers via filing Customs and Border Protection Form 7501.

This form provides CBP with details regarding your vehicle's make, model and origin for their consideration and review. Once accepted by customs officials, this document allows it to be registered legally on U.S. roads.

Certain countries are prohibited from importing cars into the United States due to government regulations and restrictions.

• Cuba
• Iran
• North Korea
• Sudan
• Syria

There may also be restrictions in place for the importation of vehicles from other countries depending on age, condition and emissions regulations for each car in particular.

In Cuba and Iran for instance there may be regulations against importing used cars from these other nations for certain instances relating to age condition emissions requirements and age of registration of an imported car from foreign markets.

Under CBP regulations and requirements relating to import of foreign cars, noncompliance can result in severe sanctions, including vehicle seizure, fines and possible criminal charges.

Foreign licenses

Foreign licenses may be driven legally in the US; it's essential that drivers from other nations understand what requirements must be fulfilled to do so safely and legally.

Visitors to the US with valid foreign licenses are permitted to drive legally for up to three months as long as it remains non-expired and issued in English; furthermore no medical conditions interfere with driving ability are present.

It should be noted however, that not all states adhere strictly to this three month limit as some may place additional requirements or restrictions.

Illegal immigrants living in the US vary in their policy regarding driver's license applications; currently 15 states and Washington D.C. permit illegal immigrants to acquire one.

California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Utah, Vermont, and Washington are just a few states where these activities take place

Renting a car requires having an authentic driver's license that meets rental company specifications; in this regard, make sure the license meets their criteria before booking one with any rental agency.

License plates

Vehicle registration with state authorities requires proof that it has been properly registered; hence the importance of having license plates on vehicles in America. Each license plate displays its unique number to confirm this fact.

State laws govern their own registration processes for license plate registration of foreign vehicles and vary accordingly.

Foreign car owners in the U.S. must apply for license plates within a specified amount of time after importing or purchasing their vehicles here, though each state imposes different rules regarding these plates and time restrictions for applying for them.

Some states may also require additional documentation, including proof of insurance and an up-to-date passport.

To obtain license plates for their foreign car in the US, owners must follow each state's importation procedures.

Submit an application, pay the fees and submit documents to the DMV for review of this application form to determine whether the car meets state-mandated emissions requirements and approve it or reject it based on these elements.

Noteworthy is the fact that foreign drivers may face unique hurdles when applying for license plates in the U.S., such as unfamiliar processes and language barriers.

Consultations with and assistance from U.S. embassies/consulates is essential in order to obtain an approved and authorized license plate.

Identification cards

Non-US citizens wishing to operate motor vehicles within the US must meet specific identification card requirements before operating a vehicle on American soil.

At each service request for driver's license or identification card services, individuals must present original immigration documentation as proof of their identity and legal presence within the US.

Original immigration documentation required may include valid passport, I-94 Arrival/Departure Record and Notice of Action documents as well as expired immigration documents which extend their stay within the US.

Note that each service request for driver's license or identification cards requires providing documentation proving identity and lawful status within the US.

Non-US Citizens must emphasize the I-797C Notice of Action as proof of extended stay lawfully within the US.

Documents will be required in order to obtain a driver's license or identification card.

Note that rental car companies must collect driving licenses or international driving permits (IDPs) from non-US nationals renting their car.

Failing to submit any of these documents could prevent the company from renting out a car; non-US citizens should ensure they possess all required documents before trying to rent in America.

Ask the Pros

To summarize, when entering the US with a foreign car it's essential that you are informed about all regulations and requirements established by government authorities.

Though it can seem intimidating, following all applicable regulations is needed to avoid legal complications.

Doing your research and staying informed are surefire ways of making sure that your foreign car remains on US roads as long as needed and legally.

Contact A1 Auto Transport's car import experts with all of your queries and needs related to car importing.

Over 35 years in the shipping industry have given us confidence in receiving solid advice and service.

Get a complimentary quote right now.