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Importing a vehicle from the EU
European-market vehicles are built to ECE standards, not U.S. FMVSS — so even familiar models usually need conformity work and a registered importer before they're road-legal in the States.
ECE vs. FMVSS
EU-spec lighting, glazing, and restraint systems often differ from U.S. requirements. A registered importer identifies and corrects the gaps.
Customs & emissions
A customs broker files the entry. EPA emissions compliance is confirmed via the engine family / test group on the emission label, or addressed through the RI.
Certify & release
The registered importer brings the vehicle into FMVSS conformity, posts the DOT bond, and submits the package to NHTSA for bond release.
What you'll need
- EU registration & title documents
- EPA emission label (engine family)
- Manufacturer's certification label
- A registered importer to certify conformity
Ready to import?
Get matched with a registered importer who handles this route — free and anonymous.