Can You Register a Mazda AZ-1 in North Carolina?
North Carolina allows kei trucks like the Mazda AZ-1 on public roads with some restrictions. Speed limits, road class restrictions, or special registration requirements may apply.

Quick Facts
- Legal Status
- Legal with Restrictions
- Vehicle
- Mazda AZ-1
- Engine
- 657cc 3-cylinder Suzuki F6A Turbo
- Horsepower
- 63 hp @ 6,500 RPM
- Payload
- N/A (2-seat coupe)
- Price Range
- $20,000 - $40,000
- State Sales Tax
- 3.0%
- Registration Fee
- $38
- Title Fee
- $56
- Title Required
- Yes
- Insurance Required
- Yes
- Inspection Required
- Yes
Mazda AZ-1 Registration in North Carolina
North Carolina allows the Mazda AZ-1 on public roads with restrictions. These may include speed limits, road class restrictions, or special registration categories. Check the full North Carolina kei truck laws for the specific rules that apply.
Many North Carolina owners use their Mazda AZ-1 for farm work, property maintenance, and short trips on secondary roads where the restrictions are manageable.
What It Costs to Own a Mazda AZ-1 in North Carolina
The Mazda AZ-1 typically sells for $20,000 - $40,000 depending on year, condition, and mileage. On top of the vehicle price, North Carolina charges:
- Sales tax: 3.0% ($900 on a $30,000 truck)
- Registration: $38
- Title: $56
- Inspection: $30
Total state fees on a $30,000 Mazda AZ-1: roughly $1,024. Use our North Carolina import calculator for a detailed breakdown including shipping, customs duty, and broker fees. For current market values, Hagerty tracks pricing trends on imported Japanese vehicles.
Mazda AZ-1 Specs
The Mazda AZ-1 (1992-1995) is powered by a 657cc 3-cylinder Suzuki F6A Turbo producing 63 hp @ 6,500 RPM. It carries N/A (2-seat coupe) of payload in a bed measuring 130" L x 55" W x 45" H. All models were built to meet Japanese kei vehicle regulations with a maximum engine displacement of 660cc.
Read the full Mazda AZ-1 guide for detailed specs, common issues, recommended mods, and maintenance tips. If you are new to kei trucks, start with our complete introduction to kei trucks.
Importing a Mazda AZ-1 to North Carolina
Under the NHTSA 25 year rule, any Mazda AZ-1 manufactured 25 or more years ago is exempt from Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and EPA emissions requirements. Check our eligibility checker to see exactly when a specific production year becomes eligible.
For a step by step walkthrough, read our complete import guide. Before purchasing, review the pre purchase inspection checklist to avoid common pitfalls. Japanese auction sites like Goo-net Exchange list current inventory with pricing.
Mazda AZ-1 Dealers in North Carolina
2 dealers in North Carolina carry kei trucks:
- Mars Mini Trucks (Mars Hill) — website. Specialties: Suzuki, Honda, Daihatsu, Mitsubishi, Subaru.
- Mayberry Mini Trucks (Mount Airy) — website. Specialties: Suzuki, Honda, Daihatsu, Mitsubishi, Subaru.
Browse the full dealer directory or find all dealers in North Carolina.
Mazda AZ-1 in Other States
Considering registering in a different state? Laws vary significantly. Read the full state by state legality guide or check the Mazda AZ-1 in these states:
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