Are Kei Trucks Legal In Louisiana?
Kei trucks are incredible small vehicles from Japan, known for their adaptability and excellent fuel economy! Although figuring out the regulations for kei trucks in the U.S., especially in Louisiana, can seem daunting, there's no reason to worry! This blog post aims to simplify everything, assisting you with the legal requirements, titling, registration, and more. Let's embark on this exciting journey together!
What are the Federal Regulations?
Understanding Kei Trucks & Federal Regulations
To understand state regulations, it is important first to comprehend the federal rules related to importing kei trucks into the United States. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are responsible for essential standards that these vehicles must meet to comply with safety and environmental laws.
A key regulation to note is the 25-year rule, which allows vehicles older than 25 years to bypass certain standard safety requirements, thereby making it easier for collectors and enthusiasts to import and register their cherished kei trucks. However, those interested in acquiring newer models must still pass safety and emissions tests, which can be challenging because these vehicles are built quite differently from conventional U.S. cars.
What are the Louisiana Regulations?
Registering Kei Trucks in Louisiana
In Louisiana, kei trucks, which are small vehicles, can be driven on regular roads but not on highways specifically designed for fast traffic, like interstate highways.
According to state law (RS 32:299.2), here are some important points about driving mini-trucks in Louisiana:
- A. You can drive a mini-truck on roads where the speed limit is 55 miles per hour or lower, but you can't take them onto highways that are meant for fast-moving vehicles.
- B. If you do drive a mini-truck, it needs to have working lights (both front and back), turn signals, brake lights, an outside mirror on the driver's side, and either a mirror on the passenger's side or one inside. It also needs a parking brake, a windshield wiper, a speedometer, an odometer, brakes for each wheel, seat belts for every seat, and a vehicle identification number.
- C. Mini-trucks must be registered as off-road vehicles and display a special decal from the motor vehicle office. If the truck's title is in another language, you might have to present a certified translation at your own expense.
- D. Only licensed drivers are allowed to operate mini-trucks on Louisiana roads.
- E. Mini-trucks need to have liability insurance that meets the same minimum requirements as regular vehicles.
- F. A mini-truck is defined as a four-wheeled vehicle that is smaller than typical trucks, has a maximum speed of 65 miles per hour, and comes with a truck bed for carrying items along with a closed area for passengers.
- G. The Department of Public Safety will create rules to help enforce these regulations.
- H. Importantly, state departments and local governments can restrict mini-truck use on certain roads if they think it is necessary for everyone's safety.
These rules were established to ensure that mini-trucks can be safely used on Louisiana roads.
Whats the workaround?
How to Drive Newer Kei Trucks on Louisiana roads
At Shogun Imports, we help people register their kei trucks so they can drive them legally in 45 states. These unique, small vehicles can bring a great deal of joy to their owners. Our trustworthy legal team manages all the necessary paperwork for the registration of your kei truck, whether it comes with license plates from another state or is classified as a utility vehicle. They make sure that everything meets the local regulations in the states that accept driver’s credentials from different areas. The whole process can be completed by mail, and you do not need to live in the state where you are registering your truck. This allows you to enjoy your kei truck without any hassle!