Everything’s Big In Texas, Except For The Newly Legalized JDM Imports

The smallest vehicle you can opt for if you’re in the US would be the Mitsubishi Mirage. In Texas, however, you can go as small as the JDM imports with engine displacements smaller than Harley-Davidson motorcycles. We’re talking about the cute and practical kei cars, and the Lone Star state has just passed a law legalizing them on public roads. If you’re a kei car enthusiast living in Texas, you now have at least 10 reasons to celebrate, though there are still stipulations you should know about.

According to Texas Senate Bill 1816, which was passed last Wednesday, all “miniature vehicles” will be officially recognized as motor vehicles for the purpose of getting a vehicle title starting September 1, 2025. However, the definition of miniature vehicles is a bit vague in the law, compared to those defined by the one submitted by State Senator Kelly Hancock last March.

The Law Is A Little Vague In Its Definition Of Miniature Vehicles

The bill states that a “miniature vehicle” is a small, self-propelled vehicle with four or more wheels that meets federal laws. Curiously, size wasn’t specified, but the law specifically prohibits golf carts, neighborhood electric vehicles, off-highway vehicles, custom cars, or street rods. While this law practically allows the cute and boxy Suzuki Jimny to be registered and driven in Texas, you might not be able to do so with its latest generation, as you will need to abide by the 25-year import rule.

There are plenty of options out there, some even sportier than the humble Mirage. You may be able to import modern kei cars into the state, provided that they can comply with the notoriously stringent safety and emissions regulations of the US. Upgrading them up to snuff is definitely an option, but only hardcore fans would probably do so, given the costs that go with the complex process.

Texas Joins Colorado In The Love For Small Cars

Backed by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), Texas now joins the list of states that allow kei cars to be imported, registered, and driven. Colorado was the most recent state to pass a similar law, though that one will only take effect after a couple of years. Kei cars will also not be allowed on roads within the Centennial State with speed limits over 55 mph, along with other limitations that are rather practical in the name of safety.

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Source: Texas.gov via The Drive