Vermont
LegalVT
Kei trucks are street-legal and can be titled and registered for on-road use in Vermont as of August 2026.
Vermont allows kei trucks on all public roads following S.326, signed June 16, 2026 and effective July 1, 2026. The law writes 'kei vehicle' into state statute — four wheels, 660cc or less displacement, 130 inches or less overall length, 78 inches or less height, 60 inches or less width — and defines a 'kei truck' as a kei vehicle used primarily to transport property. Qualifying vehicles register as regular motor vehicles with no special speed restriction. Vermont previously did not register kei trucks. Annual safety inspections are required for 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.
Recent News & Politics
- S.326 — Omnibus motor vehicle bill defining kei vehicles
Vermont General Assembly ·
Signed by Gov. Phil Scott June 16, 2026; effective July 1, 2026. Defines kei vehicle and kei truck in statute and directs the DMV to register qualifying vehicles as regular motor vehicles — no speed cap, standard inspection.
- Vermont bill aims to ease registration of mini trucks
WCAX (CBS affiliate, Burlington) ·
Active legislation in the Vermont Statehouse aiming to ease mini-truck registration. Coverage from local TV; the bill is moving through committee as of April 2026.
Restrictions
- Must pass state safety inspection
How to Register a kei vehicle in Vermont
- 1
Get insurance
Obtain liability insurance before visiting the DMV. See our insurance directory for companies that cover kei vehicles.
- 2
Pass required inspections
Vermont 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.
Vermont DMV/DOTVermont DMV/DOTLast verified: August 2026 · 1 month ago
Tips for Vermont
- 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.
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 Vermont’s neighbours.