Kei Truck & Kei Car Laws in Michigan (2025)

Are Kei Trucks Legal in Michigan?

Yes, kei trucks are legal in Michigan as of November 2024! The Michigan Department of State reversed its previous restrictive policy, now allowing mini trucks and kei vehicles to receive on-road titles and registrations. This represents a major victory for Michigan kei truck owners who had previously been forced to register their vehicles as off-road vehicles (ORVs).

In November 2024, Michigan joined Massachusetts and other states in recognizing that legally imported kei trucks deserve street-legal status. See our complete state-by-state guide for details. For more details, check our complete guide to importing a kei truck from Japan. The state had previously classified mini trucks and kei vehicles as ORVs, issuing off-road titles only. Now, Michigan determines that these vehicles qualify for standard on-road registration.

The Michigan Department of State has proactively mailed new on-road titles to affected owners, along with instructions to return previously issued ORV titles. If you had a mini truck with a previous street-legal registration through Michigan, your registration validity period has been restored.

This policy aligns with the federal NHTSA 25-year import rule, which allows vehicles 25 years or older to be imported and registered regardless of their compliance with U.S. safety standards. Popular models like the Suzuki Carry, Honda Acty, and Daihatsu Hijet are now fully legal for Michigan roads.

However, like all states, Michigan cannot override the federal restriction prohibiting kei trucks from interstate highway use.

How to Register a Kei Truck in Michigan

Registering a kei truck in Michigan now follows the standard vehicle registration process through the Michigan Secretary of State.

Required Documents:

Certificate of title or manufacturer's certificate of origin
Bill of sale showing purchase price
Federal customs clearance documents (Form 3520-1 and HS-7 declaration for imports)
Proof of Michigan auto insurance (no-fault coverage required)
Valid Michigan driver's license or state ID
Proof of Michigan residency

Registration Process:

Obtain Insurance: Michigan requires no-fault auto insurance before you can register any vehicle. For more guidance, see our kei truck insurance guide. You must provide proof of coverage meeting state minimum requirements.
Complete Application: Fill out the Application for Vehicle Title (Form TR-11L for assigned vehicles, or appropriate form for your situation).
Visit Secretary of State Office: Bring all documents to your local Secretary of State branch office. Some services may be available online for renewals, but initial kei truck registrations typically require in-person processing.
Pay Fees and Taxes: Michigan registration fees vary based on vehicle weight and value.
Receive Title and Plates: You'll receive a Michigan certificate of title, registration, and license plates.

If You Previously Had an ORV Title:

Michigan has been mailing new on-road titles to owners who previously received ORV titles. If you're in this situation:

Watch for mail from the Michigan Department of State
Return your old ORV title using the pre-addressed, stamped envelope provided
If your vehicle had a previous street-legal registration, it automatically reverts to the previous validity period
Contact the Secretary of State if you haven't received your new title

Costs Breakdown:

Title fee: $15
Registration fee: Varies based on vehicle value and weight (typically $100-$150)
Sales tax: 6% of purchase price
Plate fee: $5 (transfer) or $10 (new)

Important Notes:

Michigan does not require safety inspections for passenger vehicles
No emissions testing for vehicles 25+ years old
Kei trucks are typically registered as passenger vehicles unless used commercially

Restrictions and Limitations

While Michigan now allows kei trucks on most roads, there are important restrictions to understand:

Highway Restrictions:

No interstate highway use (I-75, I-94, I-96, I-69, etc.) - federal restriction
US highways (US-23, US-131, US-127) are generally permitted
State routes (M-roads) are accessible
Local roads and streets fully permitted

Speed Considerations:

Most kei trucks have a top speed of 50-65 mph
Use caution on highways where traffic regularly exceeds your vehicle's capabilities
Michigan's rural highways often have 55-70 mph speed limits
Consider using parallel county roads for safer travel

Equipment Requirements:

Michigan law requires all registered vehicles to have:

Working headlights and taillights
Turn signals (amber front, red rear)
Brake lights
Horn
Windshield with functioning wipers
At least one rearview mirror (driver's side)
Seat belts for driver and all passengers
License plate light

Many Japanese kei trucks require modifications to meet Michigan standards:

Turn signal upgrades (Japanese signals may not meet U.S. color/position requirements)
DOT-compliant lighting
Ensure all required safety equipment functions properly

Vehicle Classification:

Under Michigan Compiled Law 257.217i, mini trucks are defined and regulated. Your kei truck will typically be registered as:

Passenger vehicle - personal use
Commercial vehicle - business use (requires commercial plates)

Winter Considerations:

Michigan winters are harsh. Kei truck considerations:

4WD models (Suzuki Carry 4WD, Honda Acty 4WD) handle snow well
Lightweight design means less traction than full-size vehicles
Factory heaters are adequate but not as powerful as U.S. trucks
Use winter tires for best performance
Consider rust protection—Michigan's road salt is aggressive

Insurance Requirements

Michigan has unique auto insurance requirements, including mandatory no-fault coverage. Kei trucks must comply with these laws.

Minimum Required Coverage:

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) - Michigan's no-fault coverage (amount varies based on choice)
Property Protection Insurance (PPI) - $1 million minimum
Residual bodily injury and property damage liability - $50,000/$100,000/$10,000

Michigan No-Fault Reform:

As of 2019, Michigan allows drivers to choose their PIP coverage level:

Unlimited PIP (traditional coverage)
$500,000 PIP
$250,000 PIP
$50,000 PIP (if you have qualified health insurance)
PIP opt-out (only if you have Medicare)

Finding Insurance:

Insuring a kei truck in Michigan can be more challenging than standard vehicles:

Companies That May Cover Kei Trucks:

Hagerty - Specialty and collector vehicle insurance; frequently mentioned by kei truck owners
Progressive - Some agents handle kei trucks
State Farm - Success varies by local agent
Farm Bureau Insurance - Michigan-based, may be flexible for rural/farm use
Auto-Owners Insurance - Another Michigan company worth contacting

Tips for Getting Coverage:

Call agents directly rather than using online quotes
Explain that the vehicle is federally legal under the 25-year import rule
Have your VIN/chassis number, import documentation, and photos ready
Be prepared to provide a vehicle appraisal for specialty coverage
Consider stated value or agreed value policies

Expected Costs:

Michigan auto insurance rates are among the highest in the nation. Expect:

$600-$1,500+ per year depending on coverage choices
Lower PIP limits reduce costs
Rural areas typically have lower rates than Detroit metro
Your driving record and location significantly impact rates

Inspection and Emissions

Michigan does not require periodic safety inspections or emissions testing for passenger vehicles, which simplifies kei truck ownership.

No Safety Inspections:

Unlike Massachusetts or Maine, Michigan doesn't mandate annual inspections
Vehicle safety is the owner's responsibility
Law enforcement can cite you for equipment violations if stopped

No Emissions Testing:

Michigan discontinued mandatory emissions testing in 2012
Vehicles 25+ years old were always exempt when testing existed
No smog check required for registration or renewal

Equipment Compliance:

While there's no formal inspection, your kei truck must still comply with Michigan equipment laws:

All lights must function properly
Brakes must be in good working order
Tires must have adequate tread (2/32" minimum)
Windshield cannot have cracks in driver's vision area
Horn must be functional
Exhaust system cannot be excessively loud or modified illegally

Self-Inspection Tips:

Since Michigan doesn't inspect, responsible owners should:

Regularly check all lights and signals
Monitor tire condition and pressure
Test brakes frequently
Keep windshield in good condition
Maintain exhaust system
Ensure seat belts function properly

Import Compliance:

When importing a kei truck to Michigan, ensure:

Federal importation paperwork is complete and accurate
Vehicle meets 25-year age requirement
Customs forms (3520-1 and HS-7) are properly filed
VIN or chassis number is verifiable

Tips from Michigan Kei Truck Owners

Michigan has a growing kei truck community, particularly in rural areas and the Upper Peninsula. Here's what local owners recommend:

Finding Mechanics:

Independent import shops are more familiar with kei trucks than dealerships
Japanese auto specialists can handle maintenance and repairs
Many parts are interchangeable with Japanese market models
Online parts sources like Amayama Trading ship to Michigan

Winter Driving:

4WD kei trucks handle Michigan winters surprisingly well
Use quality winter tires—all-seasons aren't enough
Lightweight means you can get stuck easier than full-size trucks
Keep recovery gear (shovel, traction mats) in the truck
Remote starters are a worthwhile addition for cold mornings

Rural Michigan:

Upper Peninsula residents love kei trucks for hunting, camping, and property work
Northern Michigan farms use them for chores and field work
Kei trucks excel on two-tracks and forest trails (legally, since they're road-registered)
Great for maple syrup operations, Christmas tree farms, and orchards

Urban Use:

Detroit and surrounding cities have active JDM import communities
Ann Arbor and East Lansing (college towns) embrace kei trucks
Grand Rapids has a growing enthusiast scene
Parking is incredibly easy compared to full-size trucks

Advocacy Success:

Michigan reversed course due to community pressure and advocacy
Shows the value of contacting legislators and organizing
Join Michigan JDM import groups to stay informed about regulatory changes

Best Uses in Michigan:

Farm and property maintenance
Hunting and outdoor recreation
Small business delivery and service work
Campus and facility operations
Snow plowing (with appropriate attachments)
Off-grid cabin transportation

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive my kei truck on I-75 or other Michigan interstates?

No. Federal law prohibits kei trucks from interstate highways nationwide. This includes I-75, I-94, I-96, I-69, and all other interstates. You can use US highways (US-23, US-131) and state roads (M-routes), but avoid interstates.

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

No. A standard Michigan operator's license (Class D) is sufficient. Kei trucks are four-wheeled motor vehicles similar to cars, so no special endorsements or commercial licenses are needed for personal use.

Can I use a kei truck for my business?

Yes. Register with commercial plates if you're using the truck for business purposes (landscaping, contracting, delivery, etc.). Ensure your insurance covers commercial use. Many Michigan small business owners use kei trucks for local operations.

What if I still have an ORV title for my kei truck?

Contact the Michigan Secretary of State immediately. The state has been mailing new on-road titles to affected owners. If you haven't received yours, visit your local Secretary of State office with your current ORV title and request an on-road title conversion.

Are kei trucks good in Michigan snow?

4WD models handle snow remarkably well due to their lightweight design and good weight distribution. However, they're not heavy enough to plow through deep snow like full-size trucks. Use winter tires, drive cautiously, and keep recovery gear handy. Many Upper Peninsula residents swear by their kei trucks for winter use.

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

Yes. If you're bringing a kei truck from another state, re-register it in Michigan. Bring the out-of-state title, bill of sale, and import documentation to the Secretary of State. You'll need Michigan no-fault insurance before registration.

Do I need to modify my kei truck to make it legal?

Most kei trucks need minor modifications to meet Michigan equipment requirements, particularly lighting. Ensure your turn signals, headlights, and taillights meet U.S. standards (proper colors and positions). Some owners add DOT-compliant light assemblies. Since Michigan doesn't inspect, modifications aren't verified unless you're stopped by law enforcement.

Useful Links

Michigan Secretary of State - Vehicle registration and titling authority
Michigan Vehicle Registration Information - Registration processes and requirements
Michigan No-Fault Insurance Guide - Auto insurance requirements
Michigan Compiled Law 257.217i - Mini truck statutory definition
NHTSA Vehicle Importation Guidelines - Federal import regulations
Dirt Legal: Michigan Kei Update - Policy change details
Hagerty Insurance - Specialty vehicle insurance
r/keitruck Reddit Community - Owner discussions and advice

Michigan's reversal on kei truck restrictions makes it one of the Midwest's most kei-friendly states. If you're exploring ownership in the Great Lakes region, compare our guides for Ohio, Indiana, and Wisconsin. If you're near the border, you may also want to check kei truck laws in and .