Kei Truck & Kei Car Laws in Colorado (2025)

Are Kei Trucks Legal in Colorado?

Yes, kei trucks will be fully legal in Colorado starting July 1, 2027, with registration available beginning January 1, 2028. Colorado passed groundbreaking legislation in 2025 that officially legalizes kei vehicles for use on roads with speed limits of 55 mph or less, making it one of the most progressive states for these Japanese imports.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed House Bill 25-1281 into law on May 9, 2025, after it passed unanimously in the state legislature. This landmark legislation, backed by SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association), establishes a clear legal framework for kei vehicles in Colorado.

Key points of the new law:

Effective Date for Sales: Licensed dealers can sell kei vehicles starting July 1, 2027
Registration Opens: Owners can register kei vehicles starting January 1, 2028
Road Use: Legal on roadways with speed limits of 55 mph or less
Interstate Ban: Prohibited on limited-access highways and interstates
No Special Inspections: Kei vehicles cannot be declared non-roadworthy solely due to their design or manufacturing parameters

This makes popular models like the Suzuki Carry, Honda Acty, Daihatsu Hijet, and Mitsubishi Minicab street-legal in Colorado with reasonable restrictions that balance safety concerns with vehicle access.

The law aligns with the NHTSA 25-year import rule, which exempts vehicles 25 years or older from EPA emissions and DOT safety standards. For more details, check our complete guide to importing a kei truck from Japan. Colorado's legislation recognizes these federal exemptions while establishing state-level operational guidelines.

Current Status (Before 2027): If you currently own a kei truck in Colorado, it cannot yet be legally registered for on-road use. You must wait until the registration window opens on January 1, 2028.

How to Register a Kei Truck in Colorado

Registration for kei vehicles will open on January 1, 2028. Here's what to expect based on the new legislation:

Eligibility Requirements:

Colorado's law defines a kei vehicle as one that meets these specifications:

Four-wheeled car or truck
Less than 140 inches in length
67 inches or less in width
Top speed of at least 50 mph
Enclosed passenger cab
Meets the 25-year import requirement under federal law

Registration Process (Starting January 2028):

Step 1: Verify Your Kei Truck Meets Requirements

Measure dimensions: under 140 inches long, 67 inches wide
Confirm top speed capability (at least 50 mph)
Verify 25+ year age (most kei trucks being imported qualify)
Ensure enclosed passenger cab (all standard kei trucks have this)

Step 2: Complete Emissions Testing (If Required) If you live in the Colorado emissions testing area (Denver metro, Boulder, Ft. Collins, parts of northern Front Range), your kei truck must pass emissions testing:

Vehicles 7 model years old and newer are exempt
Most kei trucks are old enough to require biennial testing
Cost: $25 at AirCare Colorado stations

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Original title or proof of ownership
Bill of sale with purchase price
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Entry Summary (CBP Form 7501) for imported vehicles
Valid Colorado driver's license with Colorado address
Proof of Colorado vehicle insurance

Step 4: Visit a County Motor Vehicle Office Take your documents to your local Colorado DMV office. Starting January 1, 2028, DMV systems will be updated to process kei vehicle registrations.

Step 5: Pay Registration Fees Colorado registration fees are based on vehicle weight and type. Expected costs:

Title fee: $7.20
Registration fee: $29-$60+ (based on empty weight and age)
Plate fee: $7.55 (new plates) or $0.60 (transfer)
County fees: Varies by county
Emissions fee: $2 (in emissions areas)

Total registration costs will likely range from $50 to $150 depending on your county and vehicle specifics.

Step 6: Receive License Plates and Registration You'll receive standard Colorado license plates and registration documentation. Display plates according to Colorado requirements (rear plate required, front plate may be required depending on vehicle year).

Renewal: Colorado vehicle registration is typically for 1 year, renewable annually through Colorado DMV online services.

Important Timeline:

Now - July 1, 2027: Cannot register or legally drive kei vehicles on Colorado roads
July 1, 2027: Licensed dealers can begin selling kei vehicles
January 1, 2028: Registration opens for owners; kei vehicles become street-legal

Restrictions and Limitations

Colorado's new law authorizes kei vehicles with specific restrictions designed to balance access and safety:

Speed Limit Restriction: Kei vehicles are prohibited from operating on roadways with speed limits greater than 55 mph. This means:

✓ Most city streets (typically 25-45 mph)
✓ County roads (typically 35-55 mph)
✓ State highways posted at 55 mph
✗ Highways with 60+ mph limits
✗ Any limited-access highways (regardless of speed limit)

Limited-Access Highway Ban: According to HB 25-1281, driving a kei vehicle on a limited-access highway is prohibited. This includes:

Interstate highways (I-25, I-70, I-76, etc.)
US highways with limited access
Controlled-access portions of state routes

No Discriminatory Inspections: The law explicitly states that the Colorado Department of Revenue, Colorado State Patrol, and their agents or contractors may not:

Require special inspections because a vehicle is a kei vehicle
Declare a kei vehicle non-roadworthy due to its design or manufacturing parameters

This protection prevents arbitrary enforcement and ensures kei vehicles are treated like other registered vehicles.

Required Safety Equipment: While kei vehicles can't be discriminated against for their design, they must still meet Colorado's general vehicle equipment requirements:

Working headlights and taillights
Turn signals
Brake lights
Mirrors (rearview and at least one side mirror)
Windshield and windshield wipers
Horn
Seat belts
Adequate brakes
Proper tires

Most imported kei trucks already meet these requirements.

Driver's License: A standard Colorado Class R driver's license is sufficient. No special endorsement or motorcycle license is required.

Insurance Required: Colorado requires minimum liability insurance (see Insurance Requirements section).

Local Ordinances: While state law governs registration and road use, local jurisdictions may have parking restrictions or HOA rules. Always check local regulations.

Insurance Requirements

Colorado requires all motor vehicles operated on public roads to carry minimum liability insurance, and kei vehicles will be no exception starting in 2028. For more guidance, see our kei truck insurance guide.

Minimum Coverage Required:

$25,000 bodily injury liability per person
$50,000 bodily injury liability per accident
$15,000 property damage liability

Insurance Companies Likely to Cover Kei Vehicles:

Several insurers are expected to provide coverage for legally registered kei vehicles in Colorado:

State Farm: Has covered specialty and imported vehicles in other states
Progressive: Offers coverage for unusual and specialty vehicles
American Modern: Specializes in collector and imported vehicles
Hagerty: Known for classic and imported vehicle coverage
Grundy Insurance: Specialty vehicle coverage with potential mileage restrictions

Getting Insured:

When the registration period opens in 2028, contact insurers and emphasize:

Your kei vehicle is legally registered in Colorado under HB 25-1281
The vehicle is over 25 years old and NHTSA-exempt
It meets all Colorado safety requirements
You understand the 55 mph road restriction

Expected Insurance Costs: Based on similar specialty vehicles, expect to pay $400-$900 annually for basic liability coverage, depending on:

Your driving record
Location (urban vs. rural)
Coverage limits chosen
Whether you bundle with other policies

Proof of Insurance: You must provide proof of insurance when registering and must carry proof at all times while operating your kei vehicle on Colorado roads.

Current Kei Truck Owners: If you currently own a kei truck in Colorado (before 2028), standard auto insurance isn't available since the vehicle can't be registered for road use. Consider specialty off-road vehicle insurance or property insurance for theft and damage protection.

Inspection and Emissions

Colorado's new kei vehicle law explicitly prohibits discriminatory inspections while maintaining standard emissions requirements for applicable vehicles.

No Special Kei Vehicle Inspections: HB 25-1281 states that kei vehicles may not be required to have inspections because they are kei vehicles or have the design or manufacturing parameters of a kei vehicle. This is a crucial protection that prevents arbitrary regulatory barriers.

Standard Emissions Testing (Where Applicable):

Colorado requires emissions testing in specific counties: Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, Jefferson, and portions of Adams, Arapahoe, Larimer, and Weld counties.

Emissions Requirements:

Gasoline vehicles are exempt for the first 7 model years
Diesel vehicles are exempt for the first 4 model years
Vehicles 1975 and older are exempt
Most kei trucks are older than 7 years and will require biennial testing

Testing Process:

Visit an AirCare Colorado emissions testing station
Cost: $25 (cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, or Discover)
Frequency: Biennial (every 2 years) for most vehicles
Timing: Required before registration/renewal

Testing Type:

Vehicles 8-11 years old: OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) test
Vehicles 12+ years old (1982 and newer): I/M 240 dynamometer test
Vehicles 1981 and older: Annual testing

Exemptions: Kei vehicles registered in counties outside the emissions testing area are exempt from emissions testing entirely, making registration simpler in rural Colorado.

VIN Verification: New registrations may require VIN verification to confirm the vehicle identification number matches documentation. This is standard for all vehicles and isn't a special kei vehicle requirement.

Safety Equipment Compliance: While Colorado won't impose special inspections on kei vehicles, law enforcement can still cite you for non-functional safety equipment (lights, brakes, mirrors, etc.). Ensure all equipment is operational.

Tips from Colorado Kei Truck Enthusiasts

Colorado's kei truck community has been active in advocacy efforts and is excited about the upcoming legalization. Here's advice from enthusiasts:

Mark Your Calendar:

July 1, 2027: Dealers can sell kei vehicles
January 1, 2028: Registration opens for owners

Join the Colorado Kei Community: Connect with other enthusiasts through Facebook groups, local car meets, and the r/keitruck subreddit. Colorado owners are sharing preparation tips and celebration plans for the 2028 rollout.

Plan Your Routes: Download a GPS app that displays speed limits to help plan routes that stay within the 55 mph restriction. Colorado's extensive network of scenic back roads is perfect for kei trucks.

Consider Mountain Use: Colorado's mountain towns and rural areas are ideal for kei trucks. For a detailed comparison, see our kei truck vs UTV guide. Their compact size, tight turning radius, and utility make them perfect for mountain property access and small-town driving.

Winter Preparation: Colorado winters can be harsh. If using your kei truck year-round, consider:

Winter tires or all-season tires with good snow ratings
Engine block heater for cold starts
Upgraded battery for cold weather
Checking that heating system works adequately

Parts and Service: Colorado has a growing number of mechanics familiar with Japanese imports, especially in Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins. Connect with local owners to find recommended shops.

Advocate and Educate: Thank state legislators who supported HB 25-1281. Educating the public about kei trucks helps build positive awareness and prevents future restrictive legislation.

Watch for Implementation Details: As January 2028 approaches, monitor the Colorado DMV website for specific guidance on kei vehicle registration procedures, required forms, and any additional details.

Find verified kei truck dealers in Colorado in our dealer directory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I register my kei truck in Colorado right now?

No. While the law was signed in May 2025, registration doesn't open until January 1, 2028. This delay gives Colorado DMV time to update their systems and develop processing procedures.

Can I drive my kei truck on Colorado highways?

Yes and no. You can drive on highways posted at 55 mph or less, but not on limited-access highways (interstates) or highways with speed limits above 55 mph. Many Colorado highways in rural areas are posted at 55 mph and will be accessible.

What if my kei truck is less than 25 years old?

Colorado's law requires kei vehicles to meet the 25-year import requirement under federal law. Vehicles under 25 years old typically cannot be imported to the U.S. under NHTSA regulations, so they wouldn't be available to register in Colorado.

Do I need a special license?

No. A standard Colorado Class R driver's license is sufficient. No special endorsement, motorcycle license, or commercial driver's license is required.

Can I use my kei truck for commercial purposes?

Yes, if your business activities comply with the road restrictions (55 mph roads only, no interstates). Many businesses are considering kei trucks for landscaping, property maintenance, and local deliveries.

What happens if I get pulled over on a road with a 60 mph speed limit?

You could be cited for violating the operational restrictions. Penalties would likely be similar to other vehicle operation violations. Stick to roads with 55 mph or lower speed limits.

Can I drive my kei truck on I-25 or I-70?

No. Interstate highways are limited-access highways and are explicitly prohibited regardless of speed limit. You must use alternate routes on state highways and county roads.

Will dealerships stock kei trucks starting in 2027?

Some licensed dealers are expected to begin importing and selling kei trucks once the law takes effect on July 1, 2027. The market will determine availability, but Colorado's legalization creates strong commercial incentives for dealerships.

Useful Links

Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles - Official DMV website
House Bill 25-1281 - Full text of the kei vehicle law
Colorado Emissions Testing - Emissions requirements and locations
AirCare Colorado - Emissions testing stations
NHTSA Vehicle Importation Guidelines - Federal import rules
SEMA Action Network - Automotive legislation advocacy (backed HB 25-1281)
Hagerty Insurance - Specialty vehicle insurance
r/keitruck Community - Owner discussions and advice
Colorado Kei Truck News - Media coverage of the law

Colorado's passage of HB 25-1281 represents a major victory for kei truck enthusiasts and sets a precedent that other states may follow. The 55 mph road restriction is reasonable and still allows access to the vast majority of Colorado's road network, particularly in rural and mountain areas where kei trucks excel. While the wait until 2028 is frustrating, it gives prospective owners time to research, find the perfect kei truck, and prepare for registration. Colorado is positioned to become one of the premier states for kei vehicle ownership. For comparisons with other states' kei truck laws, check out our complete state-by-state guide. If you're near the border, you may also want to check kei truck laws in Wyoming and Nebraska.