Can You Register a Daihatsu Midget II in Iowa?
Iowa does not currently allow kei trucks like the Daihatsu Midget II to be registered for on road use. Off road and private property use may still be permitted.

Quick Facts
- Legal Status
- Not Street Legal
- Vehicle
- Daihatsu Midget II
- Engine
- 659cc 3-cylinder EF-CK (carbureted) or EF-SE (EFI)
- Horsepower
- 31 hp (carb) / 33 hp (EFI)
- Payload
- 452 lbs (205 kg)
- Price Range
- $8,000 - $25,000
- State Sales Tax
- 6.0%
- Registration Fee
- $36
- Title Fee
- $25
- Title Required
- No
- Insurance Required
- No
- Inspection Required
- No
Daihatsu Midget II Registration in Iowa
Iowa does not currently allow the Daihatsu Midget II 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 Iowa kei truck laws for details and any pending legislation.
You can still own a Daihatsu Midget II in Iowa 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 Midget II in Iowa
The Daihatsu Midget II typically sells for $8,000 - $25,000 depending on year, condition, and mileage. On top of the vehicle price, Iowa charges:
- Sales tax: 6.0% ($990 on a $16,500 truck)
- Registration: $36
- Title: $25
Total state fees on a $16,500 Daihatsu Midget II: roughly $1,051. Use our Iowa 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 Midget II Specs
The Daihatsu Midget II (1996-2001) is powered by a 659cc 3-cylinder EF-CK (carbureted) or EF-SE (EFI) producing 31 hp (carb) / 33 hp (EFI). It carries 452 lbs (205 kg) of payload in a bed measuring 116" L x 53" W x 67" H. All models were built to meet Japanese kei vehicle regulations with a maximum engine displacement of 660cc.
Read the full Daihatsu Midget II 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 Midget II to Iowa
Under the NHTSA 25 year rule, any Daihatsu Midget II 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.
Where to Buy in Iowa
We don't currently list any kei truck dealers in Iowa, but many US dealers ship nationwide. Companies like Duncan Imports and Japanese Classics handle transport to any state.
Daihatsu Midget II in Other States
Considering registering in a different state? Laws vary significantly. Read the full state by state legality guide or check the Daihatsu Midget II in these states:
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