Colorado

Legality

As of May 3, 2025, legality on Kei trucks in Colorado seems to be mixed. Call your local DMV to clarify the registration of Kei cars. People have been successful in registering Kei cars in Colorado and it seems to be easier in mountain towns where no emissions test is required.

As of May 3, 2025, there is a bill heading to the governor's desk to codify Kei cars in Colorado. This bill will allow kei cars that are either 25 years old or older when imported into the country, or over 25 years old when it was previously issued a title in the U.S. Once it is signed by Polis, this proposed law will go into effect on July 1, 2027.

Vehicle inspection

Colorado does not require safety inspections on vehicles, but does require an emissions test based on the county. Counties that require an emissions test.

Title and registration

Requirements for title and registration in Texas.Colorado. Link to checklist but below should cover everything:

• A Verification of Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) form DR 2698 completed by either:
  • A Colorado law enforcement officer
  • A licensed Colorado motor vehicle dealer
  • A licensed Colorado emissions testing station (They will have the form)
• Proof of Colorado insurance
• Passing Emissions Test as required (verify with your local county motor vehicle office or the Emissions page)
• Secure and verifiable identification (DR 2841)
• The current title, or other ownership documents, are properly endorsed by the previous owner
  • If imported from Japan, bring foreign evidence in the name of the owner/dealer or assigned to the owner/dealer. The Japanese export certificate and an English copy should work.
• Completed odometer disclosure
• A bill of sale for tax purposes. This will be the invoice.