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.
Unlike standard passenger vehicles, race cars may qualify for several import exemptions depending on their intended use and specifications. The primary categories include:
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.
For historically or technologically significant race cars that don't meet US safety standards but qualify for limited annual mileage importation.
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.
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.
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
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.
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)
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
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.
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
We work with:
Licensed customs brokers specializing in automotive imports
Racing industry freight forwarders
Competition vehicle insurance specialists
Track-to-track transport providers