Your chance to export Japanese vehicles and kei trucks—coming in 2025 and 2026 under the 25-Year Rule
Japanese cars are beloved worldwide, but in the American market especially, the “25-Year Import Rule” has drawn major attention.
Under this system, Japanese vehicles that are more than 25 years old from their date of manufacture can be officially imported and registered in America.
Starting in 2025, model year 2000 vehicles will be eligible, and in 2026, model year 2001 vehicles will qualify.
JDM (Japanese domestic market sports cars) and kei truck exports are expected to surge.
Good Loop handles vehicle sourcing and export services for customers looking to ship Japanese cars to America.
This article walks you through everything: how the rule works, which models are hot, and the actual procedures involved.
What is America’s “25-Year Rule”?
In the United States, vehicles that are more than 25 years old from their date of manufacture are classified as “Classic Cars,” and
compliance with federal safety standards (FMVSS) is waived.
This means right-hand-drive vehicles can be imported and registered in their original Japanese configuration.
The rule was established as an exception to import regulations that were tightened in the 1980s and 1990s.
It aims to preserve and display vehicles of cultural value, and
supports the thriving collector market for Japanese cars.
Model years eligible under the 25-Year Rule (2025–2026)
| Year | Model years eligible | Popular models |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2000 | Skyline GT-R R34, Silvia S15, S2000, Evolution VI TME, and others |
| 2026 | 2001 | R34 V·spec II, RX-7 (FD3S late), Stagea M35, and others |
Standout models for 2025–2026
JDM sports cars (Japanese vehicles that are huge in America)
- Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34) : 2000 model year becomes legal in 2025. Extremely sought-after worldwide, with prices climbing.
- Nissan Silvia (S15) : Never sold in the US, so demand is expected to explode once the 25-Year Rule takes effect.
- Honda S2000 (AP1) : The JDM version with a high-revving engine, different from the North American market variant.
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI TME : A limited edition that WRC fans dream about.
Hidden gems for the connoisseur
- Toyota Crown Athlete (JZS171) : Equipped with a 1JZ turbo. A rare front-engine, rear-drive sedan in North America.
- Subaru Legacy GT-B (BH5) : A turbocharged, all-wheel-drive sports wagon.
- Nissan Stagea 260RS Autech Version (1998–2001)
- Toyota bB (first generation) : Getting fresh attention as the predecessor to the “Scion xB” sold in North America.
- Honda Insight (first generation) : A symbol of the early hybrid era.
Kei trucks and kei vans
In America, kei trucks are surging in popularity—appreciated for being small, tough, and cute.
They’re finding their way into farms, outdoor ventures, repair shops, and much more.
- Suzuki Carry (DA52/DA62) : 4WD and manual transmissions especially sought-after.
- Daihatsu Hijet (S200 series) : Great availability of parts and easy to maintain.
- Honda Acty (HA6/HA7) : Mid-engine layout delivers stable handling.
- Subaru Sambar (TT1/TT2) : Nicknamed “the Porsche of farm roads”—some models feature a supercharger.
- Mitsubishi Minicab (U61 series) : Good value and inexpensive to ship.
Things to watch when exporting under the 25-Year Rule
1. Verify the manufacturing date
The 25-Year Rule is based on the month and year of manufacture, not the model year.
For example, a car made in January 2000 becomes legal in January 2025, while one made in December 2000 becomes legal in December 2025.
Check the original manufacturer’s certificate or vehicle inspection document.
2. Registration rules vary by state
American laws differ by state.
Particularly in California, emissions standards (CARB regulations) are strict, and registration may not be possible in some cases.
3. Prepare customs documentation
Documents required for export:
- Export cancellation certificate
- Invoice
- Packing list
- Certificate of manufacturing date (issued by manufacturer)
- HS-7 form (to be submitted on the US side)
Good Loop’s export support
Good Loop handles everything from sourcing vehicles domestically in Japan all the way through to arrival in America.
What we do
- Source vehicles from auctions and dealerships throughout Japan
- Handle export cancellation and prepare customs documentation
- Arrange container and RoRo shipping
- Manage marine insurance and post-clearance support
Ports we serve
- Departure ports: Yokohama, Kobe, Nagoya, Hakata
- Arrival ports: Long Beach, Tacoma, Baltimore, and other major US ports
Whether you’re an individual buyer living in America or a dealer on the ground,
we can handle everything from sourcing to shipping as a one-stop service.
Wrap-up: The 25-Year Rule is your next business opportunity
The years 2025–2026, when model years 2000 and 2001 become legal, are the moment when the “Heisei neo-classic era” comes back to life in America.
Beyond just the Skyline and Silvia, Japanese vehicles that capture the essence of Japan—kei trucks, Crowns, and more—are drawing attention from around the world.
Good Loop handles vehicle sourcing, inspection, export procedures, and shipping all in one package.
If you’re looking to bring a Japanese car to America or want to start an export business, please reach out and let’s talk.