Colorado
RestrictedCO
Kei trucks are street-legal with restrictions in Colorado as of June 2026. A state inspection is required.
Colorado allows kei trucks with speed-limited road restrictions. Emissions testing applies in the Denver metro area and other Front Range counties.
Registration Status
Street Legal
Kei Vehicles can be driven on public roads.
Titleable
You can obtain a state title for a kei vehicle.
Registerable
Kei Vehicles can be registered with the state.
Inspection Required
A safety and/or emissions inspection is required.
Recent News & Politics
Keijira deep dive
Read our full coverage of Colorado's situation →
- HB25-1281 — Title, Register, & Drive Kei Vehicles
Colorado General Assembly ·
Gov. Polis signed the SEMA-backed bill May 9, 2025 — adds 'kei vehicle' to the definition of motor vehicle. Effective July 1, 2027; registrations begin Jan 1, 2028.
- Small Trucks, Big Win: SEMA-Backed Kei Truck Bills Signed Into Law in Colorado, Texas
SEMA ·
Industry trade group walk-through of both wins and what they mean for the broader fight.
- Get ready to see a lot more mini-trucks on the road in Colorado
Colorado Public Radio ·
Public radio reporting on what the new law does, the 55 mph speed cap, and the implementation timeline.
- Colorado Finally Legalizes Kei Vehicles! But There's a Catch...
TFLcar ·
Catch is the 2-year delay — DMV and emissions systems need to be updated before owners can register.
Restrictions
Speed restriction: Limited to roads with speed limits of 55 mph or below
- Limited to roads with posted speed limits of 55 mph or below
- Must pass emissions testing in Front Range counties
How to Register a kei vehicle in Colorado
- 1
Get insurance
Obtain liability insurance before visiting the DMV. See our insurance directory for companies that cover kei vehicles.
- 2
Pass required inspections
Colorado requires a vehicle inspection. Take your kei vehicle to a licensed inspection station. Emissions testing is also required in certain counties.
- 3
Gather your documents
Bring to the DMV:
- Bill of Lading (proof of shipment)
- Customs Entry Summary (CBP 7501)
- EPA Form 3520-1
- NHTSA/DOT Form HS-7
- Japanese Export Certificate
- Bill of Sale
- Proof of insurance
- Inspection certificate
- 4
Visit the DMV and apply for title
Request a title application for an imported vehicle. The Japanese chassis number will serve as the VIN — clerks may need to enter it manually. If the clerk is unfamiliar with kei vehicles, ask to speak with a supervisor.
- 5
Pay fees and get plates
Pay titling fees, registration fees, and applicable sales tax. You'll receive a state title, registration card, and license plates.
For a detailed walkthrough, see our Title & Registration Guide.
Official Source
Visit your state's DMV/DOT website for the most current information on vehicle registration and titling.
Colorado DMV/DOTLast verified: 2026-06
Tips for Colorado
- Be aware of the specific restrictions before purchasing a kei vehicle for use in Colorado.
- Speed restrictions limit where you can drive — plan your routes accordingly.
- Contact your local DMV office to confirm current requirements before visiting.