Tennessee
RestrictedTN
Kei trucks are street-legal with restrictions in Tennessee as of September 2026.
Tennessee registers kei trucks as “medium speed vehicles”, defined by Tenn. Code § 55-1-125 as four-wheeled vehicles with a top speed above 30 mph but not above 35 mph. Under § 55-8-191(b) they may be driven only on streets posted 40 mph or below, and not faster than 35 mph. The class must meet the federal low-speed vehicle standards at 49 CFR 571.500. A standard Class D licence is enough; no endorsement is required.
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: Streets posted 40 mph or below, and not above 35 mph
- Registered as a medium speed vehicle, not an ordinary motor vehicle
- Streets posted 40 mph or below only
- May not be operated above 35 mph
- Must meet the federal standards in 49 CFR 571.500
How to Register a kei vehicle in Tennessee
- 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.
Tennessee DMV/DOTTennessee DMV/DOTLast verified: September 2026 · this month
Tips for Tennessee
- Be aware of the specific restrictions before purchasing a kei vehicle for use in Tennessee.
- Speed restrictions limit where you can drive — plan your routes accordingly.
- Contact your local DMV office to confirm current requirements before visiting.
Kei dealers & importers in Tennessee
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 Tennessee’s neighbours.