Maine
LegalME
Kei trucks are street-legal and can be titled and registered for on-road use in Maine as of January 2025.
Maine allows kei trucks on all public roads. Annual safety inspections are required as with all registered vehicles.
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.
Minimum Vehicle Age: 25 years
The vehicle must be at least 25 years old to qualify for import and registration.
Recent News & Politics
- LD 1209 — An Act to Establish a Working Group to Study Small Lightweight Vehicles
Maine Legislature ·
Passed in May 2025 — creates the Small Lightweight Vehicle Working Group to study safety, emissions, and other states' approaches. Report due Dec 3, 2025; bill recommendation expected 2026.
- Updates from Maine Kei
Maine Kei (enthusiast advocacy group) ·
Community-side tracking of the working-group process and what owners can do to participate in hearings.
Restrictions
- Must pass state safety inspection
How to Register a kei vehicle in Maine
- 1
Get insurance
Obtain liability insurance before visiting the DMV. See our insurance directory for companies that cover kei vehicles.
- 2
Pass required inspections
Maine requires a vehicle inspection. Take your kei vehicle to a licensed inspection station.
- 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.
Maine DMV/DOTLast verified: 2025-01
Tips for Maine
- Bring your import documents (bill of lading, customs entry, export certificate) to the DMV for titling.
- The Japanese chassis number will be used as the VIN — DMV clerks may need to enter it manually.
- Schedule your safety/emissions inspection before visiting the DMV.