US States Kei Truck Registration Guide 
by derekheidenreichOctober 29, 2024
Kei Truck Street Legal Registration In Illinois
by derekheidenreichOctober 29, 2024Are Kei Trucks Legal In Illinois?
This overview looks at the rules and regulations regarding kei trucks in Illinois. Kei trucks are small, compact vehicles that have specific legal requirements at both the federal and state levels. It covers what documents you need to have, as well as the steps involved in registering and officially owning these unique trucks.
What Are Kei Trucks?
Kei Trucks Are
Kei trucks, commonly known as mini trucks, are small vehicles that come from Japan. They usually have tiny engines, less than 660cc, making them very efficient. Their compact size makes them great for various uses, such as farming, construction, and running small businesses. However, their unique design can create difficulties when it comes to meeting safety and emission standards in the U.S.
What are the Federal Regulations?
Kei Trucks & Federal Regulations
One important guideline to know about is the 25-year rule. This rule allows vehicles that are over 25 years old to avoid some usual safety checks. This makes it easier for people to import and register older kei trucks, which are small Japanese trucks that many fans and collectors love. On the other hand, newer kei trucks still need to pass safety and emissions tests.
It's important to understand the rules for bringing kei trucks into the U.S. These small vehicles must meet certain federal safety and environmental guidelines set by two main agencies: the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Here’s what you need to know:
1. Customs Form 7501: When your kei truck arrives at the port, you'll receive this important document, which you'll need to sign.
2. DOT Form HS-7: This form confirms that your vehicle meets U.S. safety standards. It’s especially important if the vehicle wasn’t originally built to follow U.S. regulations.
3. EPA Form 3520-1: This form ensures that your kei truck follows U.S. emissions rules. Your vehicle must meet these standards or qualify for an exemption.
These forms are crucial for registering your imported vehicle, including kei trucks.
What are the Illinois Regulations?
Registering Kei Trucks in Illinois
Through in-state registration, Kei trucks in Illinois can be driven on public roads with a speed limit of 25 mph or lower. They can also be used on roads with speed limits under 35 mph.
In Illinois, there are additional requirements for registering kei trucks, alongside the federal rules:
1. **Application for Vehicle Transaction**: You’ll need this if you don't plan to drive the truck right away.
2. **Motor Vehicle Tax Forms**: To calculate and pay the necessary taxes, you'll have to fill out forms RUT-25 or RUT-50.
3. **Ownership Documents**: Any ownership papers from the country where the vehicle came from must be in English or have a certified translation. If you bought the truck abroad, you need a bill of sale that includes key details like the year, make, model, VIN, and purchase price.
4. **Federal Compliance**: Your truck needs a Federal Certification Label or a Registered Importer label to show it meets U.S. safety and emissions standards. Without these labels, it will be labeled as "NON-USA STANDARD" on the title and can only be registered as a special interest or collector vehicle.
Following these steps is essential to make sure your kei truck can be legally driven on Illinois roads.
Whats the workaround?
How to Drive Newer Kei Trucks on Illinois roads With Less Restrictions
This can be tricky because they are quite different from regular vehicles in the U.S. Luckily, Shogun Imports provides a way for newer than 25-year-old kei trucks to be registered as street-legal in 45 states for use on all roads except for the interstate. Our recommended legal team will handle the registration of your new Kei truck with out-of-state plates, as well as UTV registration, ensuring it is street-legal in 45 states that recognize other states' laws. Everything will be completed by mail, and there’s no requirement for residency in that state.
Can I Use Collector Plates?
Collector Plates for Limited Use in Illinois
In Illinois, kei trucks, which are small trucks often imported from Japan, can still get titles even if they don't meet federal safety standards. However, their titles will say "NON USA STANDARD." This means these trucks can only be registered as special interest or collector vehicles. As a result, while you can own and drive a kei truck in certain situations, you can't use it for everyday driving on regular roads.
Off-Road Use in Illinois?
Using Kei Trucks Off-Road and for Farming
Kei trucks are becoming more popular in Illinois, especially for off-roading and farming. In rural areas and on private property, these small trucks have fewer rules compared to regular vehicles. This makes them a great option for farmers, ranchers, and businesses that work in off-road settings.