Importing a Vehicle
Importation and Certification FAQs
The Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance (OVSC) has expanded the current Importation and Certification Division web site to include a section entitled “Frequently Asked Questions.” In this section we have attempted to address some common questions and concerns that the office deals with on a regular basis. If your question has not been addressed, please refer to Related Government Agencies for further assistance.
Abbreviations used in these FAQs are defined as follows:
Abbreviation | What it means |
---|---|
AAMVA | American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators |
CPSC | Consumer Products Safety Commission |
DMV | Department of Motor Vehicles |
DOT | United States Department of Transportation |
EPA | Environmental Protection Agency |
FMCSA | Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration |
FMVSS | Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard |
GAWR | Gross Axle Weight Rating |
MCO | Manufacturer’s Certification of Origin |
NHTSA | National Highway Traffic Safety Administration |
NICB | National Insurance Crime Bureau |
OCC | Office of Chief Counsel |
OVSC | Office of Vehicle Safety Compliance |
RVIA | Recreational Vehicle Industry Association |
RI | Registered Importer |
RHD | Right-Hand Drive |
RV | Recreational Vehicle |
SAE | Society of Automotive Engineers |
VIN | Vehicle Identification Number |
WMI | World Manufacturer Identifier |