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Learn About Importing Vehicles and Engines
Glossary
Overview of EPA Import Requirements for Vehicles and Engines: This document provides a summary of EPA requirements for importing vehicles and engines.
The Clean Air Act prohibits importation into the United States of any motor vehicle, motor vehicle engine, nonroad engine and equipment that does not conform to United States EPA emission standards and requirements. These standards apply to all vehicles and engines including imported motor vehicles, heavy-duty engines, nonroad engines, (generators, watercraft, and lawn and garden equipment), and recreational vehicles, whether they are new or used, manufactured domestically or abroad.
Nonconforming vehicles and engines can be imported in two circumstances:
EPA regulations also allow nonconforming vehicles and engines to be temporarily imported under United States Customs bond, if they qualify for an EPA exemption. EPA and Customs regulations allow for the temporary importation of nonconforming vehicles with EPA pre-approval for the following purposes:
- Testing
- Display
- Repair or alteration
- Nonresident
- Competition/Racing
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make arrangements with an ICI for modifications, testing, and certification, or
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obtain EPA pre-approval for the exemptions listed above.
Importers are encouraged to read the detailed information on the importation of nonconforming vehicles and engines, which can be found in the Procedures for Importing Vehicles and Engines into the United States.
Also be aware that United States Customs and/or EPA can seize and/or export any goods that arrive at a United States port of entry without the appropriate ICI arrangements or a valid EPA exemption, and can levy other fines and penalties.