Georgia
RestrictedGA
Kei trucks are street-legal with restrictions in Georgia as of January 2025. A state inspection is required.
Georgia allows kei trucks on non-interstate roads. Emissions testing is required in the 13-county metro Atlanta area.
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
- Georgia's Governor Vetoes The Imported Car/Kei Legalization And The Reason Is Really Weird
The Autopian ·
Gov. Kemp vetoed HB 308 on May 14, 2025 — despite the bill passing both chambers with major bipartisan support. The reasoning cited was widely criticized as out of step with current federal import rules.
- Policy Bulletin MVD-2023-05 — Japanese Kei Vehicles and Mini-Trucks
Georgia Department of Revenue (Motor Vehicle Division) ·
The 2023 GA DOR policy that stopped new kei registrations and authorized recall of existing titles — the legal basis the vetoed bill was trying to undo.
- Georgia's New Ban on Kei Trucks
Kei Truck Connect ·
Enthusiast-side reporting on how the GA DOR ban played out for current owners and what farm-use carve-outs still exist.
Restrictions
Speed restriction: No interstate highway use
- No interstate highway use
- Must pass emissions testing in metro Atlanta counties
How to Register a kei vehicle in Georgia
- 1
Get insurance
Obtain liability insurance before visiting the DMV. See our insurance directory for companies that cover kei vehicles.
- 2
Pass required inspections
Georgia 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.
Georgia DMV/DOTLast verified: 2025-01
Tips for Georgia
- Be aware of the specific restrictions before purchasing a kei vehicle for use in Georgia.
- Speed restrictions limit where you can drive — plan your routes accordingly.
- Contact your local DMV office to confirm current requirements before visiting.