US States Kei Truck Registration Guide 
by derekheidenreichNovember 2, 2024
Are Kei Trucks Street Legal In Alabama
by derekheidenreichNovember 2, 2024Are Kei Trucks Legal In Alabama?
Kei trucks are amazing little vehicles from Japan, and they are celebrated for their versatility and outstanding fuel efficiency! While understanding the regulations for kei trucks in the U.S., particularly in Alabama, might feel overwhelming, there’s no need for concern! This blog article is here to make everything easier, guiding you through the legalities, titling, registration, and more. Let’s explore this exciting journey together!
What are the Federal Regulations?
Understanding Kei Trucks & Federal Regulations
Before exploring the details of state regulations, it is crucial to grasp the federal guidelines for importing kei trucks into the United States. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversee significant standards for these vehicles to ensure they meet safety and environmental regulations.
An important regulation to remember is the 25-year rule, which permits vehicles that are older than 25 years to avoid some standard safety requirements, making it simpler for collectors and enthusiasts to bring in and register their beloved kei trucks. However, for those interested in newer models, they will still be required to undergo safety and emissions testing, which can pose a challenge since these vehicles are constructed quite differently from standard U.S. cars.
What are the Alabama Regulations?
Registering Kei Trucks in Alabama
Kei trucks are a fantastic option for residents in Alabama, as they are legally allowed on the streets, with a friendly speed limit of 25 mph. This exciting information is based on the Alabama vehicle registration laws, specifically found in Alabama Code Title 32, Motor Vehicles, and Traffic, Section 32-6-59.1, and is updated as of December 30, 2022.
For those who qualify, Alabama residents can obtain a unique motorcycle license plate that aligns with their eligibility. The regular motorcycle registration fee applies, and if there’s any exemption or reduction in fees for private passenger cars, pickup trucks, or pleasure vehicles within a certain distinctive plate category, rest assured that the same benefits extend to motorcycle license plates! It's great to know that any additional annual fees associated with your specific license plate category will also apply to your motorcycle plate.
It's important to keep in mind that license fees and taxes must be paid for the years you don’t receive a new tag or plate, as detailed in Section 32-6-63.
When it comes to appearance, these distinctive motorcycle plates will match those used for private passenger vehicles or pickup trucks in each specific category, adding a sleek and uniform look to the roads.
Do note, however, that this section does not apply to Amateur Radio Operator plates mentioned in Sections 32-6-70 and 32-6-90. The Department of Revenue is also empowered to create any necessary rules for the smooth implementation of these guidelines.
It’s exciting to explore the opportunities available with Kei trucks and motorcycle license plates in Alabama!
Whats the workaround?
How to Drive Newer Kei Trucks on Alabama roads
At Shogun Imports, we assist individuals in getting their kei trucks registered so they can operate them legally on the roads in 45 states. These distinctive, compact vehicles can bring a lot of happiness to their owners. Our reliable legal team takes care of all the required paperwork for registering your kei truck, regardless of whether it has license plates from another state or is categorized as a utility vehicle. They ensure that everything complies with local laws in the states that accept driver’s regulations from other areas. The entire process can be completed by mail, and you aren't required to reside in the state where you are registering your truck. This enables you to enjoy your kei truck without any complications!