How long does it take to import a car from Japan?

The typical timeline is 6–10 weeks from purchase to delivery. This includes 1–2 weeks for export processing in Japan, 4–6 weeks for ocean shipping, and 1–2 weeks for customs clearance and registration. Custom orders where we source a specific vehicle may add 2–4 weeks for auction sourcing.

What is the 25-year import rule?

US federal law allows vehicles 25 years or older to be imported without meeting EPA emissions or DOT safety standards. In 2026, this means any vehicle manufactured in 2001 or earlier is eligible. This rule makes importing JDM vehicles significantly cheaper and simpler, as expensive compliance modifications are not required.

Do I need to convert from right-hand drive to left-hand drive?

No. Right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles are legal to register and drive in the United States and Puerto Rico. No conversion is required. Most JDM imports retain their original right-hand drive configuration.

Does JDM Direct handle customs and registration?

JDM Direct coordinates the process from purchase in Japan through customs clearance and DTOP registration in Puerto Rico. The services included are identified in your written estimate. Third-party charges (shipping, duties, registration fees) may change between estimate and final invoice.

How do I reserve a JDM import?

You can reserve any available vehicle with a deposit to lock it in while we finalize the paperwork and shipping. For inventory vehicles, reserve online or contact us to check availability. For custom orders, we agree on a payment schedule up front and you pay the balance before delivery.

What if the vehicle has problems after delivery?

Our representative in Japan performs a visual review of vehicles before purchase—this is not a professional or certified inspection. All vehicles are sold as-is. While we cannot offer warranties on 25+ year old used vehicles, we provide after-sale support including connecting you with mechanics experienced with JDM vehicles and assistance with parts sourcing.

Full-Service JDM Import

How It Works

From Japan to Puerto Rico — we coordinate the process. Browse, approve, and receive your vehicle.

Simple Steps

Hidden Fees

Pickup Trip

Browse or Tell Us What You Want

Explore our hand-selected inventory of verified JDM vehicles, or let us know exactly what you're looking for. Whether it's a specific Kei truck, a classic sports car, or something unique — we'll find it.

Every vehicle in our inventory is hand-picked from verified sellers only.

We Source & Find Your Vehicle

Through our network of Japanese auctions and dealers, supported by our local representative, we locate vehicles for you. We relay auction sheets and photos — note that our review is visual only, not a professional mechanical inspection.

Auction sourcing service available for custom requests.

We Purchase the Vehicle

Once you approve, we secure the vehicle on your behalf. You receive a written estimate covering vehicle cost, shipping, and fees. Third-party charges may change between estimate and final invoice.

Transparent pricing breakdown provided before purchase.

We Coordinate Shipping from Japan

We coordinate the shipping process from Japan to Puerto Rico — container booking, export documentation, and transit tracking. Your written estimate explains what is included.

Shipping cost itemized in your written estimate.

Customs Clearance & Release

We coordinate with customs brokers for the release process. Import compliance, EPA and NHTSA documentation, and duty calculations are services identified in your written estimate.

25-year rule compliance coordinated as part of our service.

You Pick Up Your Vehicle

Your JDM vehicle arrives at port, cleared and ready. All you need to do is pick it up. We provide all documentation needed for local registration and titling.

We guide you through final registration steps.

Why JDM Direct Is Different

We don't just sell cars — we provide a complete, transparent, full-service import experience.

Verified Sellers Only

Every vehicle is sourced from trusted, verified sellers and auction houses in Japan.

Transparent Pricing

You receive a written estimate covering vehicle, shipping, and fees. Third-party charges may change between estimate and final invoice.

All-Inclusive Service

Source, buy, ship, customs, release — we coordinate the process so you can focus on choosing your vehicle.

Dedicated Support

Personal guidance through every step of the process. We're always a message away.

Common Questions

Answers to the most frequently asked questions about importing JDM vehicles

Ready to Import Your Dream JDM?

Browse our inventory or tell us what you're looking for. We'll coordinate the rest.