Interest in importing electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids to the U.S. has never been higher. But navigating America’s regulatory landscape for modern zero-emission vehicles requires planning, patience, and a deep understanding of eligibility and compliance rules. This guide provides a current, clear-eyed look at how to successfully import an electric or hybrid car in 2025, the potential challenges you may face, and how West Coast Shipping’s expertise makes a difference at every step.
Every EV or hybrid under 25 years old must meet two major regulatory hurdles: EPA emissions standards and DOT Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). Battery and electric-drive vehicles are not exempt from U.S. import scrutiny, and for most, the compliance process is stringent:
EPA Compliance: Even zero-tailpipe-emission vehicles must present documentation. The EPA reviews battery technology, labeling, and environmental impact. Use EPA Form 3520-1 for environmental declaration at import.
DOT Compliance: FMVSS standards cover crashworthiness, safety equipment, labeling, lighting, and more. Vehicles not originally certified for the U.S. may require substantial modifications and must be imported through a DOT-licensed Registered Importer—but not every model or year is eligible. Always verify NHTSA model eligibility on the official NHTSA list.
While it’s sometimes possible to import and “federalize” a foreign EV via an RI, eligibility ultimately depends on whether NHTSA has ruled the model programmable for U.S. specification. Some models—especially newer or region-specific EVs—aren’t eligible for import or modification at any cost due to unavailable compliance data. For those that are eligible, conformity costs can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, and not all compliance attempts are successful.
If a vehicle is not eligible for RI import, NHTSA requires it to be re-exported or destroyed (see 49 CFR § 592.6).
Cars 25 years and older are exempt from EPA and DOT requirements—an option widely used for classic gasoline cars, but almost irrelevant for EVs as of 2025, since mass-market electric vehicles weren’t produced before 2000. If you’re targeting a first-generation Tesla Roadster or early Leaf, this exemption will only be relevant in the 2030s.
Electric cars bring special shipping requirements due to their high-voltage lithium-ion batteries. International maritime carriers generally recommend (or may require) EV batteries to be shipped at a low state-of-charge, often under 30%, but this is a carrier/industry best practice rather than a strict global regulation. Check with your shipper and get any requirement in writing. Always declare battery specs—make, model, capacity—on shipping documents and ensure the car is thoroughly inspected for leaks or damage.
Noncompliance risks rejection at origin ports, customs holds, or even being turned away at U.S. entry ports.
Even if you clear all regulatory hurdles, support in the U.S. is not guaranteed. Some OEMs—especially Tesla—will not activate U.S. software, enable Supercharging, or provide service for a foreign-market VIN. This can leave a compliant car nearly unusable in the U.S.—always confirm with the manufacturer before purchasing for import. Where coverage may apply (as with some Norwegian-market Teslas), per-VIN confirmation is critical and generally must be documented via the U.S. or international OEM support portal prior to shipping.
Other brands may offer even less coverage, meaning part and repair logistics become the buyer’s responsibility.
Proof of ownership: Title, registration, bill of sale.
EPA Form 3520-1 (emissions/environmental declaration).
DOT HS-7 Form (safety/compliance declaration).
Manufacturer’s compliance certificate (if available), or proof of RI eligibility.
Shipping documents (bill of lading, packing list).
Detailed battery info (Make, model, chemistry, serial, state-of-charge at shipping).
VIN and prior service/warranty info (for support verification).
Proactive compliance with paperwork accelerates the process at both ends of the journey.
Temporary use: Non-U.S. residents may temporarily import EVs for up to one year without full U.S. compliance under specific exemptions (e.g., diplomatic, tourist uses).
“Show or Display” Exemption: Extremely limited—reserved for rare vehicles and usually allows only 2,500 miles per year.
If you’re considering a special exemption route, work with a compliance expert familiar with NHTSA, EPA, and U.S. customs policies regarding eligibility and temporary import qualifications.
The EV import landscape is more complex than ever, and a single missed detail can cost you tens of thousands or result in vehicles being denied entry to the U.S. West Coast Shipping has up-to-date compliance expertise, can recommend eligible models, and provides trusted partners for RI, pre-shipment inspection, and safe maritime container shipping tailored to electric vehicles.
For each purchase, use our car import calculator to estimate all duties, shipping costs, and logistics with current 2025 regulatory info.
EV and hybrid imports to the U.S. demand preparation, professional coordination, and a vigilant approach to eligibility, paperwork, and OEM support. Avoid surprise costs and customs delays—launch our 2025 car import calculator today, and count on West Coast Shipping to guide your modern electric or hybrid vehicle safely from port to driveway.