Thinking about importing a classic JDM sports car or moving to the US with your UK vehicle? You’re probably asking: can you drive a right hand drive car in the USA? The short answer is yes, you absolutely can. Federal law does not prohibit right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles on American roads. However, owning and operating one comes with a unique set of practical considerations, legal nuances, and daily challenges that every potential RHD owner should understand before taking the plunge.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from federal regulations and state-level rules to the real-world experience of driving a car with the steering wheel on the “wrong” side.
Can You Drive A Right Hand Drive Car In The USA?
Yes, you can legally drive a right-hand drive car in the USA. There is no federal law banning vehicles based solely on the position of the steering wheel. The legality primarily hinges on the vehicle’s compliance with safety and emissions standards, not which side the driver sits on. Many RHD cars are successfully registered and driven across all 50 states, from imported Nissan Skylines and Toyota Supras to classic British Minis and Land Rovers.
The journey to legal road use, however, involves navigating a few key areas. You must ensure the vehicle meets Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements, or qualifies for an exemption. Then, you have to tackle the registration process at your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Let’s break down these steps.
Federal Import Laws & Regulations
Before you even ship a RHD car, you must clear federal hurdles. The two main agencies involved are the DOT and the EPA.
DOT Safety Standards: The DOT requires imported vehicles to meet all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). For cars less than 25 years old, this typically means they must be modified to comply, which can be prohibitively expensive and complex.
EPA Emissions Standards: Similarly, the EPA requires vehicles to meet U.S. emissions regulations. Non-compliant vehicles younger than 21 years old must often be modified by an EPA-certified Independent Commercial Importer (ICI).
The 25-Year Import Rule
This is the golden rule for importers. The DOT and EPA both offer exemptions for vehicles that are at least 25 years old.
* DOT Exemption: Vehicles older than 25 years are exempt from FMVSS compliance.
* EPA Exemption: Vehicles older than 21 years are exempt from emissions compliance (the EPA’s rule is slightly more lenient).
In practice, this means any car manufactured before 2000 (as of 2025) can be imported without needing to meet modern safety and emissions standards. This is why you see so many Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars from the early-to-mid 90s on U.S. roads now. Their age makes them legal to import relatively easily.
State Registration & Titling
Clearing federal customs is only half the battle. Your state’s DMV has the final say. Requirements vary significantly.
* Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): Some states may be hesitant to title a car with a non-17-character VIN, common on older Japanese cars. You may need to apply for a state-assigned VIN.
* Safety Inspections: Many states require a physical inspection to verify the VIN and ensure basic roadworthiness. A RHD configuration alone is not grounds for failure.
* Emissions Testing: If your state has testing, your imported car will need to pass. This can be a challenge for older vehicles not originally built for U.S. emissions specs, even if they are EPA-exempt.
* Insurance: You must insure the vehicle. While some mainstream insurers might be hesitant, specialty insurers that focus on classic, exotic, or imported cars will often provide coverage without issue.
It’s crucial to research your specific state’s DMV policies before importing. Contacting the DMV directly and speaking to a supervisor familiar with imported vehicles can save you massive headaches.
Everyday Driving: Challenges & Adaptations
Okay, so it’s legal and registered. Now, what’s it actually like to drive a RHD car in a left-hand traffic country?
Visibility & Overtaking
This is the most significant challenge. Passing slower vehicles on two-lane roads is harder because your view of oncoming traffic is obstructed by the car ahead. You must rely more on gaps in traffic or wait for clear passing zones. Many RHD drivers install a passenger-side convex mirror for a better forward view on the left.
Drive-Thrus, Toll Booths, & Parking
Daily interactions designed for LHD cars become awkward.
* Drive-thrus: You’ll either need a very patient passenger or you’ll have to get out and walk around. Some drive-thrus have reversed layouts, but they are rare.
* Toll Booths: You’ll need an electronic toll pass (like E-ZPass) mounted on the left-hand side of your windshield, or you’ll be stretching uncomfortably.
* Parking Tickets & Gates: Parking garages and ticket machines are almost always on the driver’s left. A good grabber tool becomes your best friend.
Traffic & Left Turns
Navigating intersections requires extra caution. Making a left turn across oncoming traffic requires you to look across the passenger seat to judge gaps, which can feel unnatural. Right turns are generally easier.
Safety Considerations in a RHD Car
Safety is a common concern. Modern RHD cars have the same safety features (airbags, crumple zones) as their LHD counterparts. The primary differences are operational.
* Seatbelt & Controls: Wearing your seatbelt is just as easy. The pedals and turn signal stalk are in the same spatial order (clutch, brake, accelerator from left to right), though the turn signal is often on the right side of the column, which can lead to accidentally hitting the wipers.
* Emergency Exits: In the very rare event you need to exit quickly onto the shoulder, you’re stepping out into traffic lanes. Always be hyper-aware when exiting on the roadside.
* Crash Compatibility: There’s no evidence RHD cars are inherently less safe in crashes in the U.S. The structure protects you. The main risk is driver error during the adaptation period.
Step-by-Step Guide to Importing a RHD Car
If you’re ready to proceed, here is a simplified roadmap.
1. Choose an Eligible Vehicle: Ensure the car is at least 25 years old for the simplest path. Verify its model and production date.
2. Hire a Customs Broker: This is highly recommended. A broker handles the complex paperwork with Customs and Border Protection (CBP), DOT, and EPA.
3. Arrange Shipping: Choose between Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) or container shipping. Get insurance for the voyage.
4. Clear Customs: Your broker will submit forms like the HS-7 (DOT) and EPA 3520-1. Pay any applicable duties (typically 2.5% for cars).
5. Pick Up from Port: Once released, pick up your vehicle from the port of entry.
6. State Registration: Take all federal release documents to your state DMV, pay taxes and fees, pass any inspections, and get your plates.
Pros and Cons of Owning a RHD Car in the USA
Pros:
* Access to Unique Models: Own iconic JDM or European classics never officially sold in the U.S.
* Cool Factor & Conversation Starter: It’s a guaranteed head-turner and a unique driving experience.
* Potential Investment: Well-kept, rare imports can appreciate in value.
Cons:
* Daily Inconveniences: Drive-thrus, tolls, and parking are perpetual hassles.
* Limited Visibility for Passing: Overtaking requires more patience and planning.
* Parts & Service: Mechanical parts for obscure imports can be expensive and slow to source. Finding a mechanic willing to work on it can be tricky.
* Higher Insurance Costs: While available, insurance is often through specialty providers at higher rates.
Common RHD Cars Seen on US Roads
You’re not alone! Here are some of the most popular RHD imports:
* Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32, R33, R34): The legendary JDM hero.
* Toyota Supra (Mk IV): Although sold in the U.S., JDM versions are RHD.
* Mazda RX-7 (FD): Another JDM icon.
* Honda NSX: The Japanese supercar.
* Land Rover Defender: Classic British 4x4s.
* Mini Cooper: The original Austin Mini.
* Subaru Impreza WRX STI: GC8 models are highly sought after.
FAQ Section
Q: Is it hard to drive a right-hand drive car in America?
A: There’s a learning curve, but most adapt within a few weeks. The muscle memory for shifting and pedal operation transfers easily. The biggest adjustments are spatial awareness and dealing with daily inconveniences like drive-thrus.
Q: Do I need a special license to drive a RHD car?
A: No. A standard U.S. driver’s license is all you need. The license doesn’t specify steering wheel position.
Q: Are right-hand drive cars more expensive to insure?
A: Often, yes. Mainstream insurers may decline or charge more. You’ll likely need a policy from a specialty insurer familiar with imported vehicles, which can cost more than a standard policy.
Q: Can I buy a right-hand drive car already in the USA?
A: Absolutely. Many dealerships and private sellers specialize in already-imported, federally legal RHD cars. This avoids the import process but usually carries a price premium.
Q: What about newer right-hand drive cars?
A: Importing a non-exempt (less than 25-year-old) RHD car is extremely difficult and costly. It must be modified by registered importers to meet all FMVSS and EPA standards, a process that often costs tens of thousands of dollars and is not feasible for most vehicles.
Q: Are mail carrier Jeep’s legal to drive?
A: Yes, former United States Postal Service (USPS) vehicles like the Grumman LLV or Jeep DJ are RHD and are already DOT/EPA compliant since they were made for use here. They can be registered for road use in most states, though they are very spartan and slow.
Driving a right-hand drive car in the USA is a perfectly viable option for an enthusiast willing to do their homework. The legal path is clear for vehicles over 25 years old, and thousands of drivers manage the daily quirks without major issue. It’s a commitment that rewards you with a unique connection to automotive culture and a driving experience that stands out from the crowd. Just be honest with yourself about the compromises, do your research thorougly, and you’ll be ready to enjoy the singular pleasure of piloting your RHD machine on American roads.