Mini Marvels on American Roads: How Kei Trucks Are Finally Getting the Green Light Across the U.S.

Once dismissed as “too small” or “too foreign,” Japan’s tiny workhorses—known as kei trucks—are slowly but surely becoming road-legal in more U.S. states. These compact, right-hand-drive utility trucks are built for efficiency, affordability, and charm—and they’re winning over American car enthusiasts, farmers, and small business owners alike.

But until recently, many states either banned kei trucks outright or restricted them to off-road use only. Now, thanks to shifting attitudes and federal 25-year import exemptions, these miniature machines are getting a second look.

Here’s everything you need to know about where kei trucks are street legal, partially legal, or still off-limits in the U.S.

Kei trucks (or kei-class trucks) are light-duty utility vehicles that originated in Japan to meet government regulations on size, engine displacement (typically 660cc), and emissions. Despite their small stature, they’re known for being rugged, fuel-efficient, and incredibly versatile.

Because they’re classified as “nonconforming” by U.S. federal safety standards, most kei trucks can only be legally registered once they are 25 years old—thanks to the same exemption law that allows classic imports like the Nissan Skyline R32 into the country.

States Where Kei Trucks Are Legal on Public Roads

The following states allow on-road registration of kei trucks, often with some restrictions based on vehicle age, road type, or speed limits:

• Washington – Fully legal for on-road use if 25 years or older

• Texas – SB1816 passed in 2023 legalized 25+ year-old kei trucks statewide

• Florida – Allowed on roads under 35 mph with county approval

• North Carolina – Legal for full road use

• Idaho – Legal on all public roads

• Indiana – Registered for public roads with no speed cap

• Oklahoma – Legal except on interstate highways

• Wyoming – Classified as multipurpose vehicles

• Wisconsin – Legal with collector or hobbyist plates

• Mississippi – Full road use allowed with a bonded title

• Louisiana – Legal on roads up to 55 mph

• Tennessee – Legal on roads posted 35 mph or lower

• New Hampshire – Road use limited to 35 mph roads and 25-mile radius

• Ohio – Legal on roads 35 mph or less

• South Carolina – Legal up to 55 mph

• South Dakota – Road use allowed

• Utah – Legal up to 50 mph roads

• Arizona – Legal with minor restrictions

• Nebraska – Legal under certain conditions

• Kansas – Legal under certain conditions

• North Dakota – Legal up to 55 mph

• Massachusetts – Legalized 25+ year-old kei trucks in 2024

States With Partial or Off-Road-Only Use

These states may allow kei trucks for farm, off-road, or recreational use but restrict their use on public roads:

• California – Street legal only under 55 mph; highway use prohibited

• New York – Must meet FMVSS/EPA standards (rare for kei trucks)

• New Jersey – Only allowed if fully FMVSS/EPA compliant

• West Virginia – Off-road use only within 20 miles of farm

• Connecticut, Maryland, New Mexico, Nevada, Vermont – No current on-road framework or only allow off-road use

States That Currently Ban Kei Trucks for Road Use

A few states still prohibit registration of kei trucks altogether or are actively revoking previously issued titles:

• Rhode Island – Banned kei truck registrations in 2023 citing safety

• Maine – Deregistered existing titles in 2021; off-road use only

• Oregon – No public road use allowed

• Georgia – Actively revoking kei truck titles since 2022

• Pennsylvania – Reclassified kei trucks as off-road/farm/antique only

• Hawaii – Treated as off-road vehicles; not road legal

Pro Tips for Kei Truck Buyers

• Stick to 25+ year-old models to avoid federal safety compliance issues

• Verify your local DMV’s stance—some counties vary even within legal states

• Use off-road registration if needed—many states still allow farm or UTV classification

• Have proper documentation: bill of sale, export certificate, and import paperwork

• Call your insurance company to confirm they’ll insure the vehicle (many do now!)

Final Thoughts

The kei truck movement in the U.S. is gaining real momentum—and for good reason. These little giants pack surprising capability, character, and economy into a bite-sized package. As more states open the door to street registration, kei trucks are transforming from niche collector curiosities into practical daily drivers and business tools.

Whether you're cruising downtown or hauling gear on a farm, kei trucks might just be the coolest (and quirkiest) legal import on the road.

One of the struggles to registering your freshly imported RHD JDM car from Japan is that you will need to get your Export Certificate translated. This was a big struggle for me when I started importing cars as the licensing office could not give me proper guidance to get the export certificate translated. So I spent days upon days trying to find the best way to get the forms translated. I almost lost my first car sale due to this issue as I ended up going to three different licensing offices and they all wanted different documents.

So long story short, we here at RHD Motorsports can help you get the translation you are desperately seeking. Simply email us at RHDmotorsports@gmail.com with your export certificate and we will get a translation completed in 48 hours or less for a small fee.

If you are needing to get the translation along with the appraisal done on your import then we can make a bundle deal happen for you. If you really dont want to do anyting at all then we can handle the entire importing process for you for a reasonable fee. At the end of the day we are part of the car community and simply want to help our are friends. Let us know how we can help you!

Did you just import a RHD classic JDM car from Japan? Are you frantically trying to find a dealership to give you an appraisal for your RHD car? This is a challenge that many first time (even repeat) buyers of RHD cars face. I had this experience myself when I imported my very own car and its not a good feeling! I went to what must have been a dozen used car lots and nobody was willing to help.

I realize that there is a need for someone to provide these appraisals for the car community as 95% of the used car lots in America will not appraise these classic RHD cars as they simply do not know the value of them or even know how to come up with a value for the vehicle. We here at RHD Motorsports are ready to help the community by providing these appraisals for a small fee. Shoot us a text to 360.362.2462 with your information (your name, the car make, model, miles, mods, and any selling points, along with exterior and interior pics) and we will get you an appraisal of your vehicle in 24 hours or less.

If you are also in need of assistance with the entire process of licensing your car then let us know, we are here to help!

Craving something different on the road? Tired of seeing the same sedans and SUVs everywhere you look? Then the world of JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) and RHD (Right-Hand Drive) cars might be your perfect escape. These vehicles offer a unique combination of performance, style, and a taste of Japanese automotive culture.

JDM: More Than Just Tuning

JDM isn't just about loud exhausts and flashy body kits. It encompasses a wide variety of cars, from iconic sports cars like the Nissan Skyline and Toyota Supra to practical kei cars and off-road legends like the Toyota Land Cruiser. These cars were originally built for the Japanese market, often featuring specific features and higher performance compared to their North American counterparts.

RHD: A Different Perspective

One of the most striking features of JDM cars is the right-hand drive configuration. While it might take some getting used to, driving RHD offers a fresh perspective on the road. Plus, many JDM enthusiasts appreciate the authenticity and connection to the car's Japanese origins.

Beyond the Hype: Things to Consider

While JDM and RHD cars offer undeniable appeal, there are some factors to consider before taking the plunge. Parts availability and potential import restrictions can vary depending on the car's age and origin. Additionally, driving an RHD car requires some adaptation, especially when navigating tight spaces or making left turns.

Finding Your Dream JDM or RHD Car

If you're ready to explore the exciting world of JDM and RHD cars, there are various avenues to consider. Online marketplaces and specialized dealerships often carry a diverse selection of imported vehicles. Thorough research and pre-purchase inspections are crucial when buying a used car, especially an imported one.

Embrace the Uniqueness

Owning a JDM or RHD car isn't just about transportation; it's a statement and a gateway to a vibrant automotive culture. Whether you're a seasoned gearhead or simply someone looking for something different, these unique vehicles can offer an unforgettable driving experience. So, are you ready to turn heads and experience the thrill of something truly special?