Kei Truck & Kei Car Laws in Massachusetts (2025)

Are Kei Trucks Legal in Massachusetts?

Yes, kei trucks are legal in Massachusetts! After a brief and controversial ban in mid-2024, Massachusetts reversed course and fully legalized kei vehicles 25 years or older for on-road use. As of September 18, 2024, the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) allows owners to register and title kei trucks, including popular models like the Suzuki Carry, Honda Acty, and Daihatsu Hijet.

This reversal came after significant public pressure and advocacy from groups like the Massachusetts JDM Imports Advocates. The RMV initially announced it would stop registering kei vehicles, sparking outrage from owners who had legally imported and registered their vehicles. For more details, check our complete guide to importing a kei truck from Japan. The state quickly reconsidered, announcing in September 2024 that kei vehicles would continue to be registrable.

Massachusetts now joins the growing list of states recognizing these Japanese mini trucks as legitimate on-road vehicles. The state honors the federal NHTSA 25-year import rule, which allows vehicles 25 years or older to be imported regardless of U.S. safety standards.

However, there's an important nationwide restriction: kei trucks are not authorized to travel on interstate highways in any state, including Massachusetts. This limits their use to state highways, county roads, and local streets.

How to Register a Kei Truck in Massachusetts

Registering a kei truck in Massachusetts follows a similar process to standard vehicles, with a few specific requirements:

Required Documents:

Certificate of title or manufacturer's certificate of origin (for newly imported vehicles)
Bill of sale showing purchase price
Federal customs clearance documents (Form 3520-1 and HS-7 declaration)
Proof of Massachusetts residency
Valid Massachusetts driver's license or ID
Proof of insurance (must be obtained before registration)

Registration Process:

Obtain Insurance: You must have an active Massachusetts auto insurance policy before registering. Minimum coverage requirements are:
- $20,000 bodily injury per person
- $40,000 bodily injury per accident
- $5,000 property damage
Complete Safety Inspection: Take your kei truck to a licensed Massachusetts inspection station. The vehicle must pass safety inspection before registration.
Visit an RMV Service Center: You cannot register a newly imported kei truck online. Visit your local RMV office with all required documents.
Complete Form RMV-1: Fill out the Registration and Title Application form. Indicate whether you'll use passenger or commercial plates based on your intended use.
Pay Fees and Taxes: Massachusetts charges registration fees and excise tax based on vehicle value.
Receive Plates and Registration: You'll receive either passenger or commercial plates, a registration certificate, and a title.

Costs Breakdown:

Title fee: $75
Registration fee: $60 for two years (passenger plates)
Sales tax: 6.25% of purchase price (may vary for used imports)
Excise tax: Varies by municipality and vehicle value
Safety inspection: $35
Emissions inspection: $35 (if required in your area)

Total estimated first-year cost: $300-$600 depending on vehicle value and location.

Important Notes:

Kei vehicles already registered before the 2024 ban may continue their existing registration without interruption
Newly imported vehicles need full documentation proving 25+ year age and legal importation
Commercial plates are required if you plan to use the truck for business purposes

Restrictions and Limitations

While Massachusetts allows kei trucks on most roads, there are important restrictions:

Highway Restrictions:

No interstate highway use (federal restriction applying nationwide)
State highways and Route 2, Route 9, and similar roads are generally permitted
Local roads and streets are fully accessible

Speed Considerations:

Most kei trucks have a top speed of 50-65 mph
Avoid roads where minimum speed limits exceed your vehicle's capability
Be cautious on high-speed state routes where traffic moves significantly faster

Equipment Requirements:

Massachusetts requires all registered vehicles to have:

Working headlights and taillights
Turn signals (front and rear)
Brake lights
Horn
Windshield with functioning wipers
Rearview mirrors (at least one on driver's side)
Seat belts for all passengers
License plate lights

Many imported kei trucks require modifications to meet these standards, particularly:

Adding or upgrading turn signals to meet U.S. standards
Installing DOT-compliant lighting
Ensuring all lights are amber (front) and red (rear) as required

Use Classification:

Passenger plates: Personal use, commuting, recreation
Commercial plates: Business use, hauling goods, contractor work

RMV Ongoing Review:

The Massachusetts RMV has stated it will continue reviewing the safety implications of kei vehicles on public roadways and plans to conduct a formal study. While this doesn't affect current registrations, owners should stay informed about potential future regulatory changes.

Insurance Requirements

Massachusetts has mandatory auto insurance requirements, and kei trucks are no exception. For more guidance, see our kei truck insurance guide.

Minimum Required Coverage:

$20,000 bodily injury liability per person
$40,000 bodily injury liability per accident
$5,000 property damage liability per accident
Personal injury protection (PIP) as required by Massachusetts no-fault law

Finding Insurance:

Not all insurance companies are familiar with kei trucks. Based on owner experiences and industry knowledge:

Companies That May Cover Kei Trucks:

Hagerty - Specializes in collector and specialty vehicles; frequently mentioned by kei truck owners
Progressive - Some owners report success; requires agent contact
State Farm - Hit or miss; depends on local agent familiarity
Safety Insurance - Massachusetts-based company that may be more flexible
Arbella Insurance - Another Massachusetts insurer worth trying

Tips for Getting Insurance:

Call and speak with an agent rather than using online quotes
Explain that your vehicle is a legally imported Japanese utility truck
Have your VIN/chassis number, import documents, and photos ready
Mention that it's federally legal under the 25-year rule
Be prepared to get "specialty vehicle" or "collector car" coverage

Expected Costs:

Insurance for kei trucks typically runs $300-$800 per year, depending on:

Your driving record
Location (urban vs. rural)
Coverage limits beyond minimum requirements
Declared value of the vehicle

Some insurers may require an agreed value appraisal for higher-value kei trucks or rare models.

Inspection and Emissions

Massachusetts requires annual safety inspections for all registered vehicles. Depending on your location, emissions testing may also be required.

Annual Safety Inspection:

Cost: $35
Required annually
Must be performed at a licensed inspection station
Results in a color-coded sticker displayed on windshield

Inspection Checklist:

Massachusetts inspectors will check:

Brake system (function and condition)
Steering and suspension
Tires (tread depth, condition, proper size)
Windshield (no cracks in driver's vision area)
Wipers and washer fluid
Horn
All lights (headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, license plate light)
Mirrors
Seat belts
Exhaust system (no excessive noise or leaks)
Frame and body (structural integrity, no sharp edges)

Emissions Testing:

Massachusetts requires emissions testing in certain areas. However:

Vehicles 15 years or older may be exempt from emissions testing
Since most kei trucks entering the U.S. are 25+ years old, they typically qualify for exemption
Check with your inspection station to confirm your vehicle's exemption status

Common Inspection Issues:

Based on owner experiences, kei trucks may fail inspection for:

Turn signals not meeting U.S. standards: Japanese turn signals may be wrong color or location
Lighting issues: Bulbs out or wiring problems from age
Windshield cracks or chips: Common in older imports
Tire condition: Imported tires may be aged or non-compliant

Preparation Tips:

Have a mechanic familiar with imports check your truck before inspection
Replace any questionable lighting components
Ensure all bulbs are working
Fix any windshield damage before inspection
Check tire date codes (tires older than 6-10 years should be replaced)

Tips from Massachusetts Kei Truck Owners

Massachusetts has a growing kei truck community. Here's what local owners recommend:

Finding Inspection Stations:

Not all inspection stations are familiar with kei trucks
Ask around in local Facebook groups or r/keitruck for recommendations
Independent garages and import specialists are often more accommodating than chains

Winter Driving:

Kei trucks handle Massachusetts winters surprisingly well, especially 4WD models
Lightweight design means less traction than full-size trucks
Use winter tires for best performance
The heaters are adequate but not powerful; dress warmly

Local Acceptance:

Urban areas (Boston, Cambridge, Somerville) have embraced kei trucks
Rural western Massachusetts is generally kei-friendly
Some towns have active kei truck owner communities

Modifications and Parts:

Join Massachusetts-based JDM import groups for local mechanics
Many parts are available through online retailers like Amayama Trading
Some standard Japanese parts fit multiple kei truck brands

Advocacy Success:

Massachusetts reversed its ban due to organized advocacy
This shows the power of community action and contacting legislators
Stay engaged with local JDM import groups to defend your rights

Best Uses:

Urban delivery and small business operations
Farm and property maintenance
Beach and outdoor recreation (avoid sand without proper prep)
Farmers markets and mobile vending
Campus and facility maintenance

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive my kei truck on the Mass Pike or I-95?

No. Federal restrictions prohibit kei trucks from interstate highways nationwide. This includes I-90 (Massachusetts Turnpike), I-95, I-91, I-93, and all other interstate routes. You can use state routes like Route 2, Route 9, Route 20, and similar roads, but avoid interstates.

Do I need a special license to drive a kei truck?

No. A standard Massachusetts Class D driver's license is sufficient. Kei trucks are four-wheeled motor vehicles, so no special endorsements or commercial licenses are required for personal use.

Can I use a kei truck for my landscaping or construction business?

Yes. You'll need to register with commercial plates and ensure your insurance covers commercial use. Many Massachusetts landscapers, contractors, and small business owners use kei trucks for local work. Just remember you can't take interstate highways to job sites.

What if I get pulled over?

As long as your registration, insurance, and inspection are current, you shouldn't have issues. Some police officers may be unfamiliar with kei trucks, so keep your import documentation and registration in the vehicle. Be polite and explain that the vehicle is legally registered with the Massachusetts RMV.

Are older kei trucks easier to register?

Age doesn't matter for registration eligibility as long as the vehicle is 25+ years old (meeting federal import requirements). However, older vehicles may have more difficulty passing safety inspection due to wear, outdated lighting, or rust.

Can I register a kei truck I bought from another state?

Yes. If you're bringing a kei truck from another state, you'll need to re-register it in Massachusetts. Bring the out-of-state title, bill of sale, and all import documentation to the RMV. You'll need to pass Massachusetts inspection and obtain local insurance.

What's the difference between passenger and commercial plates?

Passenger plates are for personal use (commuting, errands, recreation). Commercial plates are required if you use the vehicle for business purposes (delivering goods, hauling equipment, contractor work). Commercial registration may have different fee structures and insurance requirements.

Useful Links

Massachusetts RMV - Official registration and titling authority
RMV Kei Vehicle Policy Update - September 2024 announcement
Find a Vehicle Inspection Station - Locate licensed inspectors
Massachusetts Auto Insurance Requirements - Coverage details
NHTSA Vehicle Importation Guidelines - Federal import regulations
Hagerty Insurance - Specialty vehicle insurance
The Autopian: Massachusetts Kei Truck Update - News coverage of reversal
r/keitruck Reddit Community - Owner discussions and advice

Massachusetts has become one of the more kei-friendly states in the Northeast after initially moving to ban them. If you're exploring kei truck ownership in New England, compare our guides for Connecticut, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire. If you're near the border, you may also want to check kei truck laws in and Vermont.