Race Car Import Guide: How to Bring Competition Vehicles to the US

Importing race cars to the United States involves navigating complex regulations across multiple federal agencies. At West Coast Shipping, we've facilitated hundreds of race car imports for professional teams, privateers, and collectors. This comprehensive guide covers EPA exemptions, DOT requirements, and customs procedures specifically for competition vehicles entering the US market.

Understanding Race Car Import Categories

Unlike standard passenger vehicles, race cars may qualify for several import exemptions depending on their intended use and specifications. The primary categories include:

Temporary Race Car Importation

For vehicles entering the US temporarily for specific events, competitions, or testing. This category allows cars to enter duty-free for up to one year.

Show and Display Exemption

For historically or technologically significant race cars that don't meet US safety standards but qualify for limited annual mileage importation.

Competition Vehicle Exemption

For purpose-built race cars that will never be used on public roads and qualify for reduced tariffs under specific HS codes.

As detailed in our race car tariff exemption guide, proper classification can save tens of thousands in import duties.

EPA Requirements for Race Car Imports

EPA Exemption for Competition Vehicles

Race cars built exclusively for competition may qualify for EPA exemption under several categories:

Nonroad Vehicles: Cars designed solely for closed-course competition and never intended for highway use.

Racing Vehicles: Purpose-built vehicles that lack equipment required for street legal operation.

Test Vehicles: Prototypes or development vehicles used for automotive testing and research.

Documentation Required by EPA

To obtain EPA exemption, you must provide:

• Manufacturer certification that the vehicle was built exclusively for racing

• Technical specifications proving the vehicle lacks required street equipment

• Competition documentation showing the vehicle's racing history or intended use

• Owner declaration confirming the vehicle will not be used on public roads

EPA Application Process

Unlike tourist vehicle imports, race cars often qualify for exemptions that don't require advance approval letters. However, proper documentation at the border is critical to avoid delays.

DOT Requirements for Race Car Imports

DOT Form HS-7 Completion

Race cars typically qualify for DOT exemption under several categories on Form HS-7:

Box 8: Vehicles not subject to safety standards (for purpose-built race cars)

Box 9: Vehicles imported for show or display (for historically significant race cars)

Box 2: Vehicles temporarily imported (for cars entering for specific events)

Safety Standard Exemptions

Competition vehicles may be exempt from Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) if they:

• Were never manufactured for public road use

• Lack basic safety equipment required for street vehicles

• Are intended solely for closed-course competition

• Will be used exclusively on private property or race tracks

Customs Classification and Tariff Considerations

HS Code 9903.94.02 Exemption

As outlined in our tariff exemption analysis, purpose-built race cars may qualify for 0% duty under HS code 9903.94.02 if they meet specific criteria:

Non-Passenger Vehicle Designation: The vehicle must lack features required for street registration including:

• DOT-approved lighting systems

• VIN plate with passenger car designation

• Removable roll cage or safety equipment

• Street-legal emissions equipment

Manufacturer Documentation: Build sheets specifying "competition use only" and manufacturer letters confirming track-only design.

Entry Documentation: Commercial invoices stating "Not for road use" and proper HS code declaration.

Potential Savings

Proper classification can result in significant savings. For example, a $250,000 race car could save:

• $62,500 in import duties (25% to 0%)

• Additional VAT reduction on the total landed cost

Customs Clearance Process for Race Cars

Required Documentation at the Border

When your race car arrives at a US port, customs officials will require:

EPA Documentation: Either exemption letter or proof that vehicle qualifies for automatic exemption

DOT Form HS-7: Properly completed with appropriate exemption category selected

Commercial Invoice: Clearly stating "Competition vehicle - not for road use"

Bill of Lading: Transport documentation from shipping company

Technical Specifications: Proving the vehicle's competition-only design

Customs Broker Recommendations

Given the complexity of race car imports, we strongly recommend using a customs broker experienced with competition vehicles. They will ensure:

• Proper HS code classification for maximum tariff savings

• Correct completion of all required forms

• Smooth clearance process without delays

• Compliance with all federal regulations

State-Level Considerations

Registration Requirements

Most states do not require registration for vehicles that will never be operated on public roads. However, some considerations include:

Track Insurance: Many racing organizations require proof of liability coverage

Transportation: Moving the vehicle between tracks may require special transport permits

Storage Regulations: Some municipalities have restrictions on storing race cars in residential areas

California Specific Requirements

California has additional environmental regulations that may affect race car imports:

• CARB Compliance: Racing fuels and emissions equipment may be subject to state regulations

• Noise Ordinances: Local sound restrictions may limit where vehicles can be operated

Temporary vs. Permanent Import Strategies

Temporary Importation (Up to 1 Year)

Ideal for:

• Cars entering for specific racing seasons

• Development vehicles for testing programs

• International teams competing in US series

Benefits: No import duties, simplified customs process

Requirements: Must export vehicle within one year

Permanent Importation

Better for:

• Vehicles purchased for long-term competition programs

• Classic race cars for collection or historic racing

• Cars that will be based permanently in the US

Benefits: No export requirement, full ownership transfer

Requirements: Payment of applicable duties and taxes

Why Choose West Coast Shipping for Race Car Imports?

Specialized Racing Industry Experience

Our team understands the unique requirements of competition vehicles:

• Technical Knowledge: We understand racing regulations and competition requirements

• Customs Expertise: Experienced with HS code classification for race cars

• Logistics Coordination: Specialized handling for valuable and delicate race cars

Comprehensive Services

• Secure Container Shipping: Climate-controlled transport for sensitive race cars

• Customs Clearance: Complete documentation and border clearance services

• Door-to-Track Delivery: Direct transport to racing facilities

• Insurance Options: Coverage appropriate for high-value competition vehicles

Professional Network

We work with:

• Licensed customs brokers specializing in automotive imports

• Racing industry freight forwarders

• Competition vehicle insurance specialists

• Track-to-track transport providers