Minnesota
RestrictedMN
Kei trucks are street-legal with restrictions in Minnesota as of August 2026.
Minnesota has no statewide authorization for kei trucks on public roads. Instead, Minn. Stat. § 169.045 lets counties, cities and towns authorise mini-trucks by local ordinance, and road use requires both that ordinance and a permit issued under it — without them, DVS will not register the vehicle for on-road use. In practice legality changes at the county line: Hubbard and Becker counties and several northern communities have adopted ordinances, while much of the state has not. HF 3865, which would have created a statewide collector-vehicle path in 2026, died in committee. Check with your specific city or county before buying.
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
No vehicle inspection is required.
Restrictions
Speed restriction: Only on roads covered by a local mini-truck ordinance
- No statewide authorization — road use depends on a local ordinance
- A local permit is required in addition to the ordinance
- DVS will not register for on-road use without both
How to Register a kei vehicle in Minnesota
- 1
Get insurance
Obtain liability insurance before visiting the DMV. See our insurance directory for companies that cover kei vehicles.
- 2
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
- 3
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.
- 4
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.
Minnesota DMV/DOTMinnesota DMV/DOTLast verified: August 2026 · 1 month ago
Tips for Minnesota
- Be aware of the specific restrictions before purchasing a kei vehicle for use in Minnesota.
- Speed restrictions limit where you can drive — plan your routes accordingly.
- Contact your local DMV office to confirm current requirements before visiting.
Kei rules in nearby states
Legality changes at the state line, and often dramatically. If you are close to a border, or shopping across one, these are Minnesota’s neighbours.