Can You Register a Daihatsu Hijet in California?

Daihatsu Hijet Registration in California

California does not currently allow the Daihatsu Hijet or other kei trucks to be registered for on road use. This could change, as several states have recently passed kei truck legislation. Read the current California kei truck laws for details and any pending legislation.

You can still own a Daihatsu Hijet in California for off road and private property use. Many owners use them on farms, ranches, and large properties where road registration is not required. Some owners register in a neighboring state where kei trucks are legal.

What It Costs to Own a Daihatsu Hijet in California

The Daihatsu Hijet typically sells for $5,500 - $16,000 depending on year, condition, and mileage. On top of the vehicle price, California charges:

• Sales tax: 7.2% ($779 on a $10,750 truck)
• Registration: $65
• Title: $23
• Inspection: $50

Total state fees on a $10,750 Daihatsu Hijet: roughly $917. Use our California 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 Hijet Specs

The Daihatsu Hijet (1960-Present) is powered by a 660cc 3-cylinder EF-SE/KF producing 38-53 hp. It carries 770 lbs (350 kg) of payload in a bed measuring 131" L x 58" W x 69" H. All models were built to meet Japanese kei vehicle regulations with a maximum engine displacement of 660cc.

Read the full Daihatsu Hijet 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 Hijet to California

Under the NHTSA 25 year rule, any Daihatsu Hijet 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 Hijet Dealers in California

2 dealers in California carry kei trucks:

• Oiwa Garage (Long Beach) — website. Specialties: Suzuki, Honda, Daihatsu, Subaru, Mitsubishi.
• Toprank Importers (Cypress) — website. Specialties: Honda, Suzuki, Daihatsu, Subaru, Mitsubishi.

Browse the full dealer directory or find all dealers in California.

Daihatsu Hijet in Other States

Considering registering in a different state? Laws vary significantly. Read the full state by state legality guide or check the Daihatsu Hijet in these states: