The Kei Hub — Est. 2024
Registration Guide

Massachusetts

Legal
Moderate

RMV reversed its 2024 ban Sept 18, 2024. Kei trucks 25+ years can be titled and registered for use on state routes. Interstate use prohibited.

Important: Kei laws change frequently and vary by county. Always confirm with your state DMV before purchasing.

Key Restrictions

State routes permitted. Interstate highways (I-roads) are prohibited. 25+ years old required. Standard Class D license.

Registration Process

Massachusetts RMV registers kei trucks 25+ years old under the standard title and registration process as of September 18, 2024.


Step 1 — Gather Import Documents

You will need CBP Form 7501, EPA Form 3520-1, DOT Form HS-7, and your foreign title (translated if needed).


Step 2 — VIN Inspection

Bring the vehicle to an RMV-authorized inspection station for a VIN check.


Step 3 — Title Application

Apply for title at your local RMV office with all import documents.


Step 4 — Register

Pay registration fees. Annual registration; fees vary based on vehicle weight and age.


Note — Interstate Restriction

Massachusetts kei truck registration does not permit use on interstate highways. Plan your routes accordingly.

Insurance Information

Massachusetts requires minimum liability: $20,000/$40,000 bodily injury, $5,000 property damage. PIP of $8,000 is also required. Most standard carriers will insure kei trucks.


Given the 2024 policy volatility, confirm with your insurer that they are aware of and comfortable with the current RMV registration status before binding coverage.

Exemptions

Standard federal NHTSA 25-year importation exemption applies.

Legislative Activity

Brief 2024 ban reversed Sept 18, 2024 following advocacy pressure. H.4053, a bill to codify current policy in statute, has been stalled in House Ways and Means since July 2025.

Additional Notes

Massachusetts has had volatile kei registration history. A ban introduced in early 2024 was reversed September 18, 2024, following advocacy.


The current registration policy is based on administrative guidance rather than statute — H.4053 to codify it into law is stalled as of mid-2026. This means the policy could theoretically change again without a legislative vote. Monitor RMV announcements.


The interstate restriction is operationally significant in the greater Boston area. Confirm your planned routes fall on state routes before purchasing.

Common Issues

Some RMV agents may be unaware of the September 2024 policy reversal. If refused at a counter, request a supervisor and reference the September 18, 2024 policy update from the RMV.


Given the registration history, confirm current policy directly with the RMV before purchasing a kei truck intended for Massachusetts road use.

Last verified: June 2026Official DMV Website

Required Documents

  • CBP Form 7501
  • EPA Form 3520-1
  • DOT Form HS-7
  • Foreign title (translated if non-English)
  • VIN inspection at authorized station
  • Proof of insurance (state minimums)
  • Standard RMV title application
Official DMV

Other State Guides

Kei laws change frequently and vary by county. Always confirm with your state DMV before purchasing.