West Virginia
RestrictedWV
Kei trucks are street-legal with restrictions in West Virginia as of August 2026.
West Virginia does register kei trucks, but as 'street-legal special purpose vehicles' rather than ordinary motor vehicles, and the conditions attached are unusually specific. No controlled-access highways including interstates, nothing built under a federal highways program, and no more than 20 miles in one go on a highway with centerline markings — which effectively confines you to local and county roads. Counties, municipalities and the Division of Natural Resources can each prohibit them locally on top of that. A driver's licence, state-minimum insurance and the listed lighting equipment are 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: No controlled-access or federally funded highways; max 20 miles on a centerline-marked highway
- Registered as a street-legal special purpose vehicle, not an ordinary car
- No controlled-access highways, including interstates
- Not permitted on highways built under a federal highways program
- No more than 20 miles at a stretch on a highway with centerline markings
- Counties, municipalities or the DNR may prohibit them locally
- Equipment required: head, tail, brake and plate lamps, rear reflectors, turn signals
How to Register a kei vehicle in West Virginia
- 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.
West Virginia DMV/DOTWest Virginia DMV/DOTLast verified: August 2026 · 1 month ago
Tips for West Virginia
- Be aware of the specific restrictions before purchasing a kei vehicle for use in West Virginia.
- 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 West Virginia’s neighbours.