Understanding the Process of Importing RHD (Right-Hand Drive) Cars

By /

The allure of owning a Right-Hand Drive (RHD) car is undeniable for many car enthusiasts. Whether it’s the appeal of a rare model, a classic vehicle from Japan, or the desire to own something unique, importing RHD cars is a growing trend across many countries, especially in markets like the United States and Europe. However, the process of importing RHD cars can be more complicated than simply buying a left-hand drive (LHD) model. It involves several legal, logistical, and technical considerations to ensure the vehicle meets local regulations.

In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about importing RHD cars, from understanding the differences between LHD and RHD vehicles to navigating the legal requirements and challenges that come with importing one. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether importing an RHD car is the right choice for you.

1. What is a Right-Hand Drive (RHD) Car?

A Right-Hand Drive (RHD) car is a vehicle that has the steering wheel positioned on the right side of the car, as opposed to the Left-Hand Drive (LHD) configuration, where the steering wheel is on the left. This configuration is common in countries such as the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, and India, where driving is on the left side of the road.

While most countries, like the United States, Canada, and most European nations, drive on the right side of the road, RHD cars are still frequently seen on the roads, especially if the vehicle was imported from a country where RHD is the standard. The popularity of RHD cars is also driven by the desire to own unique or exotic models, such as Japanese imports like the Nissan Skyline or Toyota Supra, which were never available as LHD vehicles in many markets.

2. Why Import an RHD Car?

There are several reasons why someone might choose to import an RHD car:

  • Exotic or Rare Models: Many RHD cars, particularly from Japan, are models that were never sold in the U.S. or other countries with LHD standards. Vehicles like the Nissan Skyline GT-R, Mazda RX-7, and Toyota Supra are highly sought after for their performance and design, but were never produced with LHD for certain markets.

  • Classic Cars: For classic car collectors, RHD vehicles, especially from Europe and Japan, are considered prized possessions. These cars might have better preservation and less wear due to being maintained in countries with strict automotive regulations.

  • Price: In some cases, importing a used RHD car from overseas can be cheaper than purchasing a similar model locally, especially for cars that are discontinued or rare.

  • Customization and Tuning: Some car enthusiasts prefer RHD vehicles because they can be more easily customized or tuned, especially in the case of Japanese sports cars that are known for their tuning potential.

3. The Legal Requirements for Importing RHD Cars

The process of importing an RHD car differs depending on the country of import. However, the key to any successful import is ensuring that the car complies with local laws and regulations. Here’s a breakdown of the common legal considerations for importing an RHD car:

1. Compliance with Safety Standards

Most countries, including the U.S., have strict regulations governing vehicle safety. When importing an RHD car, it must meet the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) standards in the U.S., or the European Union Vehicle Standards in the EU. The vehicle must pass inspections to ensure it meets safety requirements, including:

  • Crash tests

  • Seatbelt regulations

  • Airbag specifications

2. Emissions and Environmental Standards

Imported cars must meet the emissions standards of the importing country. In the U.S., for example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates emissions. RHD cars, particularly older models, may require modifications to meet these standards, especially if they are coming from countries with different emissions regulations.

3. Modifications to Meet Local Driving Standards

While RHD vehicles are legal in many countries, including the U.S., driving a car with the steering wheel on the right can pose practical challenges. Depending on the country, you may need to make certain modifications to the car:

  • Headlights: RHD cars are designed to project light to the left side of the road, which may be a problem when driving in countries that drive on the right. You may need to adjust or replace the headlights to comply with local lighting standards.

  • Speedometer Conversion: In some cases, the speedometer in an RHD vehicle may be calibrated for kilometers per hour (km/h) instead of miles per hour (mph), requiring a conversion to meet local standards.

4. Title and Registration

After your RHD car passes safety and emissions inspections, you’ll need to register it with your local motor vehicle department. This process typically requires proof of compliance, payment of taxes and fees, and an inspection of the vehicle. Be aware that the cost of registration for an imported RHD vehicle can vary widely depending on local rules and the vehicle’s age, model, and emissions certification.

4. Challenges and Considerations When Importing an RHD Car

While the appeal of an RHD car is clear, the process of importing one can present a variety of challenges. Below are some key points to consider:

1. Cost of Importing

The cost of importing an RHD vehicle can add up quickly. The overall cost includes:

  • Purchase price: Depending on the model and rarity of the vehicle, RHD cars can be expensive to purchase.

  • Shipping fees: Depending on where you’re importing the car from, shipping costs can range from $1,000 to $3,000 or more.

  • Import duties and taxes: Most countries levy taxes or duties on imported vehicles. In the U.S., for example, this could include a 2.5% import duty, along with other registration fees and sales taxes.

  • Modifications and inspections: The cost of making any necessary modifications to meet safety and emissions standards can be substantial.

2. Difficulty Driving an RHD Car

Driving a right-hand drive car in a country with left-hand driving presents certain challenges, especially when it comes to visibility, overtaking, and making left turns. For some drivers, this can feel unnatural, and adapting to the new position can take time. If you’re not familiar with driving an RHD car, it may not be the best option for everyday use.

3. Finding Parts and Service

Parts for RHD vehicles, especially older or more exotic models, may be harder to find in certain countries. Additionally, finding mechanics who are familiar with working on RHD cars can be more challenging, and maintenance can be more expensive due to the rarity and specialization of the parts.

5. The Process of Importing RHD Cars Step-by-Step

Here’s an outline of the basic process involved in importing an RHD car:

  1. Research and Choose a Vehicle: Identify the make, model, and year of the car you want to import. Make sure to research the availability of parts and service for that particular model in your country.

  2. Find a Reliable Importer: Work with a trusted car importer who can handle the logistics, paperwork, and compliance requirements for you. They will help ensure the vehicle meets local regulations and can assist with customs clearance.

  3. Arrange for Shipping: The vehicle will be shipped from the country of origin to your destination port. Depending on where the car is coming from, this could take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.

  4. Vehicle Inspection and Modifications: Once the vehicle arrives, it will need to be inspected by local authorities to ensure it meets safety and emissions standards. You may need to make certain modifications before it is cleared for registration.

  5. Register and Insure the Vehicle: After passing inspection, you can register the vehicle with the local motor vehicle department and obtain insurance. Make sure the vehicle meets all registration and insurance requirements before hitting the road.

Final Thoughts: Is Importing an RHD Car Right for You?

Importing an RHD car can be an exciting and rewarding process, but it requires careful planning and consideration. Whether you’re importing a rare Japanese sports car, a classic European model, or just want to own something unique, the challenges of importing and registering an RHD vehicle can be overcome with the right preparation.

Before deciding to import an RHD car, make sure you’re aware of the costs, legal requirements, and challenges associated with owning one. If you’re prepared to handle the practicalities of driving a right-hand drive car and are committed to following the regulations, importing an RHD vehicle can be a rewarding experience that gives you access to a unique and rare vehicle.

Happy driving!

Scroll to Top