Importing a car to Honduras requires following a precise sequence of steps, each with specific documentation, timing, and compliance requirements. This comprehensive guide breaks down the entire process into manageable stages, helping you understand exactly what to expect from initial planning through final registration. While the process involves multiple agencies and can take 6-10 weeks total, following these steps systematically ensures successful completion of your vehicle import.
For detailed information about costs, documentation requirements, and vehicle restrictions, reference our comprehensive shipping a car to Honduras complete 2025 import guide. At West Coast Shipping, our expertise in international car shipping ensures your Honduras import follows all required procedures for successful completion.
Begin your import process by confirming your vehicle meets Honduras's import requirements, which can vary based on current regulations and enforcement.
Age Restrictions: Verify current age limits with Honduras customs - sources report both 7-year and 10-year limits for passenger vehicles
Drive Configuration: Ensure vehicle is left-hand drive, as right-hand drive vehicles are completely prohibited
Vehicle Type: Confirm your specific vehicle category is permitted for import
Title Status: Vehicle must have clear title without liens or salvage designations
Research Current Regulations:
Honduras import regulations can change, so verify current requirements with Honduras customs authorities or experienced customs brokers before proceeding with purchase or shipping arrangements.
Calculate comprehensive import costs to ensure importing makes financial sense compared to purchasing locally in Honduras.
Vehicle purchase price in the United States
Shipping costs: $3,150 from New York to Puerto Cortés (14 days transit)
Import duties: typically 5-20% of CIF value
VAT: 15% of duty-inclusive value
Selective consumption tax: 1% of cumulative value
Registration and compliance fees
Professional services and customs broker fees
Begin collecting required documents 30-45 days before shipping to allow time for authentication and translation processes.
Original Vehicle Title: Clear title with proper signatures and notarization
Commercial Invoice or Bill of Sale: Detailed purchase documentation
Certificate of Origin: For US-manufactured vehicles to claim CAFTA-DR benefits (can apply to personal imports though primarily used in commercial contexts)
Personal Identification: Valid passport and Honduras residency documentation
Financial Documentation: Proof of ability to pay import duties and taxes
Prepare additional documents specific to Honduras customs for smooth processing.
RTN (Registro Tributario Nacional): Honduras tax identification number
Import Authorization: Filed with Honduras customs authorities
Power of Attorney: Authorization for customs broker representation
Vehicle Compliance Documentation: Technical specifications and safety certifications
Phytosanitary Certificate: Usually not required for vehicle imports unless specific vehicle condition or contamination concerns arise during inspection
Complete document authentication and translation to meet Honduras legal requirements.
Apostille certification for specific US documents
Consular legalization when required
Certified Spanish translations for non-Spanish documents
Proper notarization of copies and translations
Complete vehicle purchase with proper documentation for Honduras import requirements.
Verify vehicle meets age requirements before purchase
Ensure title is clear and transferable
Obtain detailed purchase documentation for customs valuation
Consider CAFTA-DR eligible vehicles for duty savings
Secure comprehensive protection for your vehicle during transit to Honduras.
Full marine cargo coverage for vehicle value
Port-to-port protection from US through Honduras delivery
Coverage documentation required for customs clearance
Consider additional coverage for high-value vehicles
Container shipping provides the best protection and flexibility for Honduras vehicle imports.
Maximum protection from weather and handling damage
Allows personal items to accompany vehicle (subject to restrictions)
Flexible loading for non-operational vehicles
Enhanced security during transit
Preferred method for standard passenger vehicles
New York to Puerto Cortés: $3,150 in 14 days transit time
Book shipping after confirming all documentation is prepared
Time your vehicle export with document completion to avoid delays and storage fees.
Submit vehicle to export facility 3-5 days before sailing
Complete US customs export documentation
Vehicle inspection and loading preparation
Final loading and departure confirmation
Ensure all US export requirements are satisfied before vessel departure.
File export declaration with US Customs
Present all required documentation
Allow for customs inspection if required
Receive export clearance confirmation
Obtain bill of lading from shipping company
Stay informed about your vehicle's transit progress and prepare for Honduras arrival.
Track vessel progress during 14-day transit
Prepare Honduras import documentation
Coordinate with Honduras customs broker
Arrange for payment of import duties and taxes
Present all required documentation to Honduras customs upon vessel arrival at Puerto Cortés.
Bill of lading presentation
Import documentation review
Vehicle specification verification
Customs valuation assessment
Duty and tax calculation
Allow for Honduras customs vehicle inspection to verify documentation and condition.
Physical vehicle examination
VIN verification against documentation
Condition assessment for customs valuation
Safety and emissions compliance check
Documentation accuracy verification
Complete payment of all assessed duties and taxes for vehicle release.
Review complete tax calculation
Verify all assessed amounts
Submit payment for duties, VAT, and selective consumption tax
Pay customs processing fees
Obtain payment receipts and clearance authorization
Ensure vehicle passes required technical inspections for Honduras road legal operation.
Safety systems verification
Emissions testing (if applicable)
Lighting and equipment compliance
Overall roadworthiness assessment
Obtain inspection certificates
Complete vehicle registration process for legal operation on Honduras roads.
Present all customs clearance documentation
Complete vehicle registration forms
Pay registration fees and processing charges
Obtain Honduras license plates
Receive official registration certificate
Fulfill all legal requirements for vehicle operation in Honduras.
Obtain mandatory Honduras vehicle liability coverage
Present valid Honduras driver's license or international permit
Understand annual inspection and tax obligations
Register for ongoing compliance requirements
Coordinate vehicle pickup from Puerto Cortés after completing all clearance requirements.
Confirm all requirements completed
Schedule pickup from port facility
Present identification and clearance documentation
Conduct final condition inspection
Accept delivery and obtain all original documents
Maintain compliance with Honduras vehicle operation requirements for legal road use.
Annual vehicle inspection compliance
Tax obligation fulfillment
Coverage renewal as required
Registration renewal procedures
Address changes with transportation authority
Prevent documentation delays through proper preparation and professional assistance.
Begin document preparation 60+ days before shipping (experienced brokers recommend this extended timeline for maximum safety)
Use experienced customs brokers familiar with current requirements
Maintain multiple certified copies of all documents
Allow extra time for authentication processes
Address potential valuation issues through proper documentation and professional representation.
Maintain comprehensive purchase documentation
Consider professional appraisal for high-value vehicles
Work with experienced customs brokers
Understand appeals process if needed
Classic car permits are rare and handled case-by-case by Honduras authorities
Additional duties, restrictions, or special requirements typically apply
Success is not guaranteed even with proper documentation
Consult with experienced brokers before pursuing classic vehicle imports
Consider alternative markets if vehicle exceeds standard age limits
Stay informed about changing regulations that could affect your import.
Monitor Honduras customs announcements
Work with professionals familiar with current requirements
Verify age restrictions and documentation requirements
Understand CAFTA-DR benefits and requirements
Choose experienced customs brokers for optimal results and minimal complications.
Honduras customs expertise and experience
Current knowledge of regulations and procedures
Established relationships with customs authorities
Transparent fee structure and communication
Problem resolution capabilities
Utilize professional services for complex documentation and translation requirements.
Accurate document preparation and authentication
Certified translation services
Current knowledge of requirements
Reduced delay risk
Professional advocacy for complications
Ready to begin importing your car to Honduras with professional step-by-step guidance? Understanding each phase of the import process, preparing comprehensive documentation, and working with experienced professionals ensures successful completion while managing costs and timelines effectively. Our systematic approach helps navigate Honduras's requirements while optimizing your import for successful delivery through Puerto Cortés and legal road operation throughout Honduras.