How to Import a Car from the US to Canada

How to Import a Car from the US to Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide (2025)

Want to import a car from the USA to Canada in 2025? Here’s a complete, step-by-step guide covering regulations, duties, paperwork, and top tips to save time and money.

Why Canadians Are Importing Cars from the U.S. in 2025

Due to rising car prices and limited inventory in Canada, many Canadians are turning to the U.S. for better deals. Whether it’s to access exclusive trims, save money, or get a lightly used luxury vehicle, importing a car from the U.S. can be a smart move—if done correctly.

However, the process involves strict government regulations, specific documentation, and vehicle admissibility rules. Here’s everything you need to know.

✅ Step-by-Step Guide to Importing a Vehicle from the U.S. to Canada

Step 1: Check Vehicle Admissibility

Not every U.S. vehicle is allowed into Canada. Visit the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) to confirm if your model is admissible. Generally, most cars newer than 15 years are subject to Transport Canada regulations.

Step 2: Get the Right Documentation

Ensure you collect the following:

• Original Title (or Certificate of Origin)
• Bill of Sale or Purchase Agreement
• Recall Clearance Letter (from manufacturer or dealer)
• U.S. Export Declaration (for customs)

Step 3: Notify U.S. Customs (72 Hours in Advance)

At least 72 hours before export, send all vehicle documents to the U.S. border crossing you intend to use. This gives U.S. Customs time to process and approve the export.

Pro Tip: Not all border crossings handle vehicle exports, so confirm with the port before arrival. Check the CBP Port Directory.

Step 4: Cross the Border into Canada

At the border, you’ll need to declare the vehicle and present all documents to Canadian Customs (CBSA). You’ll also be required to pay applicable taxes and duties:

• 5% GST (federal)
• 6.1% duty (only if not manufactured in Canada, Mexico, or the U.S.)
• Provincial Sales Tax (PST/HST varies by province)
• Air Conditioning Excise Tax: $100
• Green Levy (if applicable to high-emission vehicles)

Step 5: Pay RIV Fee and Receive Inspection Form

Once cleared by CBSA, pay the RIV fee (currently around $325 + tax) and receive a Form 2 for inspection. The RIV will mail you the necessary documents and instructions.

Step 6: Get a Federal Inspection

Within 45 days of import, bring your vehicle to an RIV-approved inspection center (usually Canadian Tire). This ensures it meets Canadian safety and lighting standards.

Step 7: Register and Insure the Vehicle in Your Province

After passing inspection, take all your documents to your provincial registry (ServiceOntario, SAAQ, ICBC, etc.) to register and plate your car. You’ll need:

• Inspection form (Form 2)
• Proof of insurance
• Ownership and bill of sale
• Photo ID

Estimated Costs of Importing a Car to Canada (2025)

Best Types of Cars to Import from the U.S.

• Luxury models (BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus)
• Electric vehicles (Tesla, Hyundai Ioniq, Nissan Leaf)
• Rare or discontinued trims not sold in Canada
• High-mileage U.S. vehicles at discounted prices

Note: Avoid salvage or flood-damaged vehicles as they often fail Canadian import requirements.

FAQs About Importing Cars from the U.S. to Canada

Q1: Can I import a car older than 15 years without inspections?

A: Yes. Vehicles over 15 years old are exempt from RIV and many federal requirements, but you still need to pay duties and register provincially.

Q2: Are U.S. warranties valid in Canada?

A: Some are, but many require cross-border warranty coverage. Contact the automaker before purchase.

Q3: Can I finance a U.S. car purchase from Canada?

A: Typically, no. You’ll need to pay in full or use a U.S.-based lender. Consider a personal loan from your Canadian bank.

Q4: Can I import an EV from the U.S. and still get rebates?

A: Imported EVs usually don’t qualify for Canada’s iZEV rebate. Provincial incentives vary—check before buying.

Q5: How long does the whole import process take?

A: If planned well, the process can take 2–4 weeks from purchase to full registration.

Useful Resources

• Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV)
• Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA)
• Transport Canada – Importing Vehicles
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
• U.S. Recall Lookup

Want more automotive guides for Canadians? Explore our other articles on Car Buying Guides and Cross-Border Tips.

Complete Car Loan Guide for Canada & USA

Looking for the best auto loan rates? This guide covers car financing options in both Canada and the USA. Learn how to get low interest car loans, compare lenders, and apply online with ease.

Country-Specific Car Loan Guides

• Car Loan Guide – Canada (covers bank car loan offers and credit union car loans)
• Car Loan Guide – USA (includes auto loan refinancing and pre-approved auto loan tips)

Why Trust This Car Loan Guide?

We reference trusted resources like Ratehub’s Canadian car loan rankings and NerdWallet’s U.S. auto loan analysis. These comparisons provide real-time information on compare car loan rates and vehicle financing for bad credit.

How to Use This Guide

Step 1: Choose Your Country

Select Canada or USA for tailored details on online car loan application steps.

Step 2: Learn Eligibility

Check credit score requirements, down payment expectations, and loan terms for low interest car loans.

Step 3: Compare & Apply

Review lender offers, auto loan refinancing options, and repayment periods before applying.

Pro Tips for Smart Car Financing

• Check your credit score—higher scores unlock low interest car loans.
• Get a pre-approved auto loan—gives you more bargaining power.
• Compare car loan rates—across banks, credit unions, and online lenders.
• Watch out for markups—dealer financing may cost more than bank car loan offers.

Disclaimer: Loan terms and rates vary by lender, credit score, and location. Always confirm details directly with the financial institution before applying.