Register imported vehicle from Baja to ca

[Tito2122]

Does anyone know anyone that knows how to import a car to the US from Mexico?

 

[badlinesgoodtimes]

Does anyone know anyone that knows how to import a car to the US from Mexico?

@Wes-Wheelin-Wheeler didnt you buy a baja truck ?

 

[badlinesgoodtimes]

My Boy ChatGPT

If you're looking to import a vehicle manufactured or registered in Baja California (Mexico) into California (USA), here's what you need to know:

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1. Determine Nature of Import​

Temporary Border Crossing​

• Mexican nationals (and others) may temporarily drive a Mexican-plated car in the U.S. for up to one year, provided the vehicle is not sold or transferred in the U.S., using CBP-issued temporary import paper, valid license, and insurance Wikipedia+6U.S. Customs and Border Protection+6Reddit+6ShunAuto+1.
• You are not required to register or smog the car in California during that period SmogTips+2Reddit+2.

Permanent Import & Registration in California​

• This is a full import into the U.S. with intent to register and use the vehicle permanently in California.
• You must clear CBP, satisfy EPA and DOT (FMVSS) compliance, pay duties, and then register with California DMV Park(ing) Day+2California DMV+2.

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2. Federal Import Requirements​

a) Customs Entry​

• Submit CBP Form 7501 (Entry Summary). Provide proof of ownership (title), bill of sale, and registration from Mexico Reddit+15ShunAuto+15Park(ing) Day+15.
• Vehicle duties: typically 2.5% for passenger vehicles, or 25% for commercial trucks; some may qualify under USMCA duty-free if rules of origin are met ShunAuto+1.

b) EPA Emissions (Form 3520‑1)​

• If there's an official EPA emissions label certifying U.S. compliance, file code B; otherwise, you may need a compliance letter from the manufacturer or use an independent commercial importer (ICI) Reddit+8bordercenter.org+8trade.gov+8.

c) DOT Safety (Form HS‑7)​

• Vehicles ≤ 25 years old must meet DOT FMVSS standards. If there's a U.S. certification label, declare compliance; otherwise, you’ll need an ICI to bring the vehicle up to standard and post a bond ~1.5× dutiable value trade.gov+2bordercenter.org+2.

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3. California-Specific Compliance (CARB & DMV)​

• California requires vehicles (manufactured after 1968) to meet EPA and CARB emissions standards, including obtaining a smog certificate and CARB certification label or testing via a CARB-licensed lab California DMV.
• If your vehicle was not built to CA standards—even if compliant federally—California may deny registration unless it can be converted under CARB’s Direct Import Program. Motorcycles and diesels cannot be converted as of now California DMV+1.

DMV Registration Requirements:​

• You’ll need:
  • Out-of-state title and ownership documents
  • CBP clearance forms (e.g. stamped HS‑7, 3299, 7501, etc.)
  • Weight certificate (trucks only)
  • Completed California DMV forms: REG 343 (Title/Registration), REG 31 (Vehicle Verification), and others RedditReddit+11California DMV+11Reddit+11.

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4. Special Case: Vehicles 25+ Years Old (“25‑Year Rule”)​

• Cars over 25 years old (original engine, intact) are exempt from DOT & EPA compliance requirements at the federal level lacar.combordercenter.org.
• However, California may still require emissions testing or deny registration if the vehicle is post‑1975. Always confirm with CARB directly lacar.comCalifornia DMV.

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5. Use of Import Agents or Brokers​

• Importing a vehicle legally from Mexico is complex and often requires professional help:
  • A customs broker (agente aduanal) in Mexico handles Mexican export/pedimento.
  • A licensed U.S. customs broker or ICI coordinates CBP entry, EPA/DOT forms, and compliance conversions if needed Park(ing) DayReddit.
• Many importers report that handling it without professional help at U.S. ports (like San Ysidro or Tecate) is nearly impossible for direct importation RedditReddit.

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Summary Table​

Scenario	Requirements
Temporary drive in U.S. (<1 year)	Only passport, Mexican plates, CBP temporary import. No registration/smog required.
Permanent import & registration	CBP entry (7501, HS‑7, 3520‑1), duties, EPA/DOT compliance (labels or ICI conversion), CA smog + CARB, DMV forms and fees.
Vehicle ≥ 25 years old	Federal DOT/EPA exempt, but California may still require emissions compliance or deny registration.

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What You Should Do Next​

1. Determine if your vehicle is intended for permanent U.S. registration. If not, the temporary route may be easier.
2. Check vehicle age, origin, and built-to-market labels/stickers:
   • Does it already have U.S. DOT and EPA stickers?
   • If not, can you get a letter of compliance from the manufacturer?
3. Contact a licensed customs broker in both Mexico and the U.S. to evaluate your case.
4. Contact CARB directly if California emissions compliance is uncertain.
5. Be prepared for broker fees, possible conversion costs, duty/taxes, DMV and smog fees—especially if the vehicle wasn't built for U.S./CA specs.

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🗣 Example Conversations from Others​

“If it’s a Mexican-market car, it likely won’t happen—the CA‑built emissions and safety standards are much more stringent.”
“Trucks with a purpose of transporting goods are usually charged 25% tariff. Make sure you file Forms 7501, HS‑7, and EPA 3520‐1 at the time of import.”
Redditlacar.com

In short: Importing a legitimate Baja‑plated vehicle into California permanently is possible but difficult, and normally requires that the vehicle already meet U.S. and California standards, or that substantial modifications be done via licensed importers. If you're just driving temporarily, it's much less complicated.
Do you have specific details—like the year, model, and whether it has U.S. or Mexican specs? If so, I can help you dig into eligibility further.

 

[Klever]

Hit up Dirt Legal.