Can You Register a Daihatsu Copen in Virginia?
Virginia allows kei trucks like the Daihatsu Copen 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
- Daihatsu Copen
- Engine
- 659cc 4-cylinder JB-DET Turbo (L880K) / 658cc 3-cylinder KF-VET Turbo (LA400K)
- Horsepower
- 63 hp (both generations, kei class limit)
- Payload
- N/A (2-seat convertible)
- Price Range
- $8,000 - $25,000
- State Sales Tax
- 4.3%
- Registration Fee
- $30
- Title Fee
- $15
- Title Required
- Yes
- Insurance Required
- Yes
- Inspection Required
- Yes
Daihatsu Copen Registration in Virginia
Virginia allows the Daihatsu Copen on public roads with restrictions. These may include speed limits (35 mph maximum), road class restrictions, or special registration categories. Check the full Virginia kei truck laws for the specific rules that apply.
Many Virginia owners use their Daihatsu Copen for farm work, property maintenance, and short trips on secondary roads where the restrictions are manageable.
What It Costs to Own a Daihatsu Copen in Virginia
The Daihatsu Copen typically sells for $8,000 - $25,000 depending on year, condition, and mileage. On top of the vehicle price, Virginia charges:
- Sales tax: 4.3% ($710 on a $16,500 truck)
- Registration: $30
- Title: $15
- Inspection: $20
Total state fees on a $16,500 Daihatsu Copen: roughly $775. Use our Virginia 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.
Daihatsu Copen Specs
The Daihatsu Copen (2002-present) is powered by a 659cc 4-cylinder JB-DET Turbo (L880K) / 658cc 3-cylinder KF-VET Turbo (LA400K) producing 63 hp (both generations, kei class limit). It carries N/A (2-seat convertible) of payload in a bed measuring 134" L x 58" W x 50" H (LA400K). All models were built to meet Japanese kei vehicle regulations with a maximum engine displacement of 660cc.
Read the full Daihatsu Copen 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 Daihatsu Copen to Virginia
Under the NHTSA 25 year rule, any Daihatsu Copen 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.
Daihatsu Copen Dealers in Virginia
2 dealers in Virginia carry kei trucks:
- Duncan Imports & Classic Cars (Christiansburg) — website. Specialties: Suzuki, Honda, Daihatsu, Mitsubishi, Subaru.
- Japanese Classics (Richmond) — website. Specialties: Honda, Suzuki, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Daihatsu.
Browse the full dealer directory or find all dealers in Virginia.
Daihatsu Copen in Other States
Considering registering in a different state? Laws vary significantly. Read the full state by state legality guide or check the Daihatsu Copen in these states:
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