The Documents You’ll Actually Need
Titling a kei truck isn’t hard, but it’s different from titling a normal used car, and DMV clerks don’t always know the process on sight. Here’s what to bring, based on what our buyers use successfully across permitting states.
| Certificate of Title | Issued after import and customs clearance — JPM provides this with every truck. |
| Bill of Sale | Proof of purchase price and ownership transfer. |
| Japanese Export Certificate | Confirms the vehicle’s origin and de-registration in Japan. |
| U.S. Customs Entry Documents (CBP Form 7501) | Confirms the 25-year import exemption was properly applied. |
| EPA/DOT Import Documentation | Confirms exemption from modern emissions and safety standards under the 25-year rule. |
| VIN/Chassis Verification | Some states require a physical VIN inspection before titling — check with your local DMV. |
Step by Step
Start by confirming your state’s specific classification for kei trucks — some register them as regular passenger vehicles, others as low-speed or restricted-use vehicles with different plate and insurance requirements. See our state legality guide for the general landscape. From there, bring the full document set above to your local DMV or county tag office, request a VIN inspection if required, and apply for title and registration together. Most buyers complete the process in a single visit once they have all the paperwork in hand.
Common Snags
The most common holdup isn’t missing paperwork — it’s a DMV clerk unfamiliar with kei truck imports. Printing your state’s specific statute or administrative rule on kei/mini truck registration (many states publish this) and bringing it with you can speed things up considerably. If a clerk can’t process it, ask to escalate to a titling supervisor rather than leaving and trying a different day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What paperwork does JPM provide with a purchase?
Every truck comes with the title, bill of sale, and Japanese export certificate needed to register in a permitting state.
Do I need a VIN inspection to title a kei truck?
Some states require one before titling; check with your local DMV before your appointment.
What if my local DMV doesn’t know how to process the paperwork?
Ask to speak with a titling supervisor, and bring your state’s specific kei truck statute if available. This is the most common source of delay.
How long does titling typically take?
Often a single DMV visit if you have the complete document set. Processing time for the physical title can take a few additional weeks depending on your state.
Browse current inventory or read the full import guide for the process from purchase to delivery.