KeiScout

State Law Research

Kei Truck Laws in Michigan

Verified titling, registration, and road-use research for Michigan, on top of the federal import rules that apply nationwide.

Current status in Michigan

Full Road Use
Effective: 2024-11

Michigan SOS reversed its prior position in late 2024 and allows qualifying Kei vehicle registration.

At a glance

Title / registration
Secretary of State registration pathway restored
Public road use
Generally permitted
Interstate / controlled-access
Normal restrictions apply
Speed / road limit
No Kei-specific cap confirmed
Local option
No
Age / eligibility
Qualifying import/title documents

Federal rules vs. Michigan

Federal import rule

Federal law decides whether a Kei vehicle can enter the U.S. at all. Vehicles at least 25 years old are generally exempt from FMVSS import requirements under the federal 25-year rule, which is what makes most classic JDM Kei trucks importable. This is the same nationwide, regardless of state.

How importing works

Michigan's decision

Once imported, each state decides independently whether the vehicle can be titled, registered, and driven on public roads. That is where Michigan currently lands:

Full Road Use

Before you buy in Michigan

  1. 1Read Michigan's current status above and the rule summary in full — note any "case-by-case" or classification-dependent language.
  2. 2Confirm the details against the official source(s) linked below before you buy. Rules and interpretations change.
  3. 3Verify the vehicle meets the federal 25-year import rule so it can legally enter the U.S.
  4. 4Contact your local Michigan DMV/registration office with the specific vehicle to confirm titling and plates.
  5. 5Keep import paperwork (bill of lading, customs entry, EPA/DOT exemptions) for your registration appointment.

Sources & verification

Official / primary source

Michigan Secretary of State guidance

Verification level

High

Last verified

August 15, 2026

Change watch

WATCH: agency policy

Editorial notes

Use current SOS link on SEO page.

Kei vehicle rules vary by state and change over time. This page is research compiled from the sources above, not legal advice. Always confirm current requirements with the relevant Michigan agency before purchasing or importing.

Neighboring states

IndianaRestrictedOhioRestrictedWisconsinRestricted

Researching a specific model for Michigan?

Honda ActyTruck / van familySuzuki CarryKei truckDaihatsu HijetKei truck / commercial familySubaru SambarKei truck / van familyMitsubishi MinicabKei truck / van familyMazda ScrumKei truck / van family

Each guide covers verified generations, chassis codes, and import notes — pair it with the Michigan rules above before you buy.

Stay informed

Get Kei truck law alerts for Michigan

Michigan's rules can change. We'll email you when important title, registration, or road-use rules move. Currently watching: WATCH: agency policy.

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