Government Reference

Government Forms Reference

Every US government form required to import a JDM vehicle. These are reference cards only — your customs broker files the actual forms. Click the official links to access the real documents.

Note: ImportAJDM does not reproduce or host government forms. These cards summarize what each form does and link directly to the official government source. Always work with a licensed customs broker for filing.

HS-7DOT
View NHTSA Import Info →

NHTSA Vehicle Importation Declaration

Department of Transportation (NHTSA)

Declares whether the vehicle meets all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), or describes the basis for exemption (e.g., the 25-year rule). Required at the port of entry before Customs will release the vehicle.

Who Files

Importer / Customs Broker

When

At port entry — before Customs release

How to Fill It Out

Box 1Importer name and address
Box 2Vehicle make, model, model year
Box 3VIN or chassis number
Box 4Month and year of manufacture (from chassis plate — not model year)
Box 5Leave blank — for vehicles meeting FMVSS
Box 6 ✓CHECK THIS — "The vehicle is 25 or more model years old and is not covered by an applicable FMVSS." This is your exemption.
Box 7–9Leave blank — not applicable for 25-year exempt imports
SignatureSign and date. Your broker submits this with the EPA form.
EPA 3520-1EPA
View EPA Import Info →

EPA Importation of Motor Vehicles & Engines

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Declares the emissions compliance status of the vehicle. Vehicles exempt under the 25-year rule typically use Box 11 (Antique or Collector). Required alongside the HS-7 to clear Customs.

Who Files

Importer / Customs Broker

When

At port entry — before Customs release

How to Fill It Out

Box 1Your name and address as the importer of record
Box 2Vehicle make, model, year, and VIN/chassis number
Box 3Engine displacement in cc (found on chassis plate or auction sheet)
Box 4Country of origin — Japan
Box 5Port of entry (e.g., Los Angeles, Baltimore)
Box 6Leave blank — this is for conforming vehicles
Box 7 ✓CHECK THIS — "The vehicle is 21 model years old or older." This is your exemption.
SignatureSign and date. Your broker files this with the customs entry.
CBP 7501CBP
View CBP Form 7501 →

Entry Summary

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

The formal customs entry document that summarizes the shipment, declares the value, and calculates duties owed (typically 2.5% for passenger vehicles). Filed by a licensed customs broker.

Who Files

Licensed Customs Broker

When

After cargo arrival — typically within 10 days of entry

CBP 3461CBP
View CBP Form 3461 →

Entry / Immediate Delivery

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Allows the vehicle to be released from CBP custody immediately upon arrival, before the full Entry Summary (7501) is filed. Speeds up port pickup. Used when the importer or broker has a continuous bond.

Who Files

Licensed Customs Broker

When

At cargo arrival — before 7501 is due

ISF 10+2CBP
View ISF 10+2 Info →

Importer Security Filing

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

A pre-arrival filing required for all ocean shipments entering the US. Must be submitted at least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded onto the vessel in Japan. Includes 10 data elements from the importer and 2 from the carrier.

Who Files

Importer / Customs Broker

When

24 hours before vessel loads in Japan

Pro Tip: Most licensed customs brokers handle all CBP and EPA filings on your behalf as part of their service fee. The forms you'll most likely sign personally are the HS-7 and EPA 3520-1 — your broker will prep them for your signature.