Exporting motorcycles to the United States can be a lucrative opportunity — but it also involves navigating strict regulatory requirements. U.S. authorities like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) enforce strict standards for all imported vehicles, including motorcycles.
If you’re a manufacturer, trader, or exporter looking to ship motorcycles to the U.S., here are the essential compliance requirements you need to understand — and prepare for.
- EPA Compliance: Emissions Matter
All motorcycles imported into the U.S. must meet EPA emissions standards. This applies whether your vehicles run on gasoline, diesel, or electricity.
To prove compliance, you will need:
- EPA Certificate of Conformity: This is issued by the EPA to certify that your motorcycle model meets U.S. emissions regulations.
- Alternative: EPA Exemption or Nonroad Use Declaration (for off-road or competition vehicles only).
You must also submit EPA Form 3520-1 at customs clearance, declaring the emissions compliance status of the vehicle.
Tip: Non-compliant motorcycles may be refused entry, held at the port, or returned to origin — at your cost.
- DOT Safety Compliance: FMVSS Standards
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that all imported motorcycles comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).
To meet DOT requirements:
- Your motorcycle must be equipped with compliant safety features:
Headlights, turn signals, rearview mirrors, brake systems, and reflectors. - The vehicle must be labeled with a “DOT Approved” certification marking on its nameplate or VIN plate.
- Importers must submit Form HS-7 to U.S. Customs to declare whether the motorcycle complies with DOT safety rules.
Bonus: DOT compliance is not only required for customs clearance — it also supports smoother registration and use in the U.S. market.
- Labeling Requirements
- Permanent label affixed to the motorcycle: Must include the manufacturer’s name, manufacturing date, and compliance notice (EPA and DOT).
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): Must follow U.S. format and be clearly visible.
- Other Considerations
- Electric Motorcycles: If your bike is electric, make sure the battery pack complies with UN38.3 standards for lithium battery transport.
- Importer Requirements: Your U.S. buyer or agent must be a registered importer with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Importer Number.
- After-Sales Documentation: Providing an English-language owner’s manual and maintenance guide can improve customer satisfaction and help with compliance.
Final Thoughts
Exporting motorcycles to the U.S. is not just about quality engineering — it’s also about compliance. Make sure your motorcycles are fully aligned with EPA and DOT standards before shipment. This preparation ensures smooth customs clearance, avoids legal trouble, and strengthens your position in the U.S. market.