If vehicles manufactured abroad conform to U.S. safety, bumper, and emission standards, it is
because these vehicles are exported for sale in the United States. Therefore, it is unlikely that a
vehicle obtained abroad meets all relevant standards. Be skeptical of claims by a foreign dealer or
other seller that a vehicle meets these standards or can readily be brought into compliance.
Vehicles entering the United States that do not conform with U.S.
safety standards must be
brought into compliance, exported, or destroyed.
There is good demand for automobile service centre due to increase in the number of
vehicles day to day. After implementation of globalisation and privatisation, many
multi-national companies competing with each other and introduced many models of
4-wheelers and 2-wheelers. Besides, the purchasing power of the people also
increasing considerably and it becomes fall under necessary item in the cities/urban
areas especially for business persons and salaried persons.
Now a days, the middle class persons are also maintaining 4-wheelers/2-wheelers
due to affordable price and changing habits of the consumers. Hence, there is a good
demand for setting up of automobile servicing and repairing units particularly in
some important tribal centres.
This pamphlet provides essential information for U.S. residents, military or civilian government
employees, and foreign nationals who are importing a vehicle into the U.S. It includes U.S.
Customs requirements and those of other agencies whose regulations we enforce.
Since
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements
are subject to change, we recommend that you contact these agencies before buying a vehicle
abroad.
For Customs clearance you will need the shipper’s or carrier’s original bill of lading, the bill of sale,
foreign registration, and any other documents covering the vehicle. You will also be required to
complete EPA form 3520-1 and DOT form HS-7, declaring the emissions and safety provisions
under which the vehicle is being imported.
Vehicles that meet all U.S. emission requirements will
bear manufacturer’s label on the engine compartment in English, attesting to that fact. For vehicles
that lack such a label, the Customs inspector at the port of entry may require proof of eligibility to
import under the EPA exemptions or exclusions specified on form 3520-1.
Vehicles that do not meet all U.S. emission requirements, unless eligible for exemption or
exclusion must be imported through an independent commercial importer (ICI). EPA will not allow
the vehicles’ release to the vehicle owner until ICI work is complete. The ICI will perform any
EPA-required modifications and be responsible for assuring that all EPA requirements have been
met. Some vehicles cannot be successfully imported or modified by an ICI, however, and in
general, ICI fees are very high.
Nonresidents may import an automobile or motorcycle and its usual equipment free of duty for a
temporary stay to take part in races or other specific purposes. However, prior written approval
from the EPA is required and such approval is granted only to those racing vehicles that EPA
deems not capable of safe or practical use on streets and highways. If the contests are for other
than money purposes, the vehicle may be admitted for 90 days without formal entry or bond if the
Customs officer is satisfied as to the importer’s identify and good faith. The vehicle becomes
subject to forfeiture if it is not exported or if a bond is not given within 90 days of its importation.
Prior written approval must be obtained from DOT. A vehicle may be temporarily imported for
testing, demonstration, or racing purposes. |
