How to Import a Subaru from Canada to the U.S.

If you’re moving to the U.S. and planning to bring your Canadian car with you—especially a Subaru—this inaugural post is for you! I recently imported a Subaru from Ontario to North Carolina, and while it was totally doable, there were a few quirks I wish I had known ahead of time.

Below is a detailed checklist of the exact steps I followed, plus a few Subaru-specific insights that might save you time, money, and headaches.

✅ The Checklist

1. Request a Letter of Compliance from the Manufacturer
Reach out to the automaker’s customer service (in my case, Subaru Canada) and request a letter stating that your vehicle meets U.S. EPA and DOT standards.
→ Be sure to include your full VIN in the request.

2. Resolve Any Non-Compliance Items (like TPMS)
The letter may flag compliance issues—Subarus, for example, often need TPMS to meet U.S. standards. You’ll need to have the necessary upgrades completed by a mechanic. I used a combination of OEM in wheel sensors and a Schrader TPMS Retrofit Kit (More on this in the next section). Ask for a detailed receipt noting the parts installed and that the work meets US OEM specifications.

3. Notify Your Canadian Insurance Provider
Let them know you’re taking the car across the border and ask how long they’ll cover it while you’re living in the U.S. Many allow you to keep your policy for up to six months, giving you time to settle in before switching to a U.S. provider.

4. Cross the Border (but don't stress about importing it yet)
You don’t have to import the car at the time of your initial border crossing. You have up to one (1) year to complete the registration when using it for personal use. So when entering the U.S., focus on your immigration process. Use your Canadian plates and insurance in the meantime (with insurance blessing). Moving is stressful enough, don't add on the car importation to the list at this time.

5. Settle in then import the Vehicle at a Local U.S. Port of Entry (POE)
Once you’re settled, head to your local CBP-approved (POE) and let them know you want to import a Canadian vehicle. They’ll guide you through the paperwork and inspection.
→ You’ll pay a 2.5% duty on the vehicle’s Kelly Blue Book value (unless exempt, like for returning U.S. citizens or certain work visas).

6. Get Your U.S. Driver’s License
Requirements vary by state. In North Carolina, for example, you’ll need:

• A Social Security Number (SSN)
• Proof of residency
• Possibly an auto insurance policy
• Most states recognize Canadian licenses, so you likely won’t need a road test—just a written exam about local traffic laws. YOU GOT THIS!

7. Get U.S. Auto Insurance
This may be required before your license exam, so plan ahead. Proof of coverage will also be needed to register your vehicle.

8. Pass the DMV Written Test
Study local signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. These tests are straightforward, but do take the time to review a driver’s handbook for your state.

9. Complete Any State-Specific Inspections (NC Example)
In North Carolina, before registering a foreign vehicle, you need a VIN and fraud inspection at a designated DMV enforcement office. This is not a safety inspection—it’s a verification that the vehicle hasn’t been reported stolen, tampered with, or fraudulently imported.
→ Once complete, you’ll get a “Recommended for Import: YES” document from the officer (You're almost at the finish line).

10. Register the Vehicle and Receive Title
Take the CBP paperwork, inspection report, driver’s license, and proof of insurance to your local DMV. Pay any property tax or registration fees, and you’ll receive your U.S. title and plates.

Subaru-Specific Tip: TPMS Compliance Is the Common Hurdle

Subarus are generally built to U.S. safety and emissions standards, but TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) is a common sticking point which FRUSTRATES EVERYONE going through this process (I bet you're here after trying to research this on reddit)

U.S. DOT REUIRES A US OEM TPMS SYSTEM....THE COLD HARD TRUTH...IT'S NOT POSSIBLE....FOR A CANADIAN SUBARU.

I've made countless calls to Subaru dealerships on both sides of the border and to both Subaru Canada and Subaru of America to no avail of a solution. In short, the Canadian cars do not have a TPMS system built in at the factory meaning there are no in wheel sensors, no receiver and no dash low pressure warning light. I am a subi lover but ngl this experience and realization left a sour taste in my mouth almost s much as the cars made in Japan before 2019 cannot convert the digital speedomoter from KM to Miles but that is for another post.

So how can you be DOT compliant? Well, you technically can't but you can try implement a reasonable system and try your luck.

Here's what worked for me:

• Ordered the US OEM in Wheel TPMS sensors.
  • These are the actual sensors a Subaru US dealer would install
• I went to a local mechanic and had him program the sensors to read the make and model of my car. During an inspection you'd get an actual reading on the sensors (air pressure and make/model) which would look legit.
• The downside is that these sensors do not talk to the car so you'll never know if you're ever low on pressure without picking up a scanner and doing a manual read.
• As I am one for function I sourced a Schrader TPMS Retrofit Kit, I didn't use the in wheel sensors it came with but instead programmed my OEM sensors to the portable head unit so that I can actually get a read on tire pressure and temperature . My mechanics invoiceclearly noted the Subaru OEM in wheel sensor part numbers, installation date and successful testing.

Here are all off the options available that I have heard different people have success with:

Reflecting back on my experience I would have simply opted for the Schrader TPMS Retrofit Kit as it provides an OEM level safety feature at a reasonable cost with out the extra programming.

While this type of retrofit is often accepted at local POEs, be aware that larger border crossings may be stricter. Your best bet is to:

• Have clear documentation of the parts used
• Get installation done professionally
• Choose a local CBP office familiar with personal imports
• Be transparent and honest as there is no reasonable way to meet the DOT by the book.

Final Thoughts

Bringing your Canadian car into the U.S. is totally manageable—but it does require a bit of planning, especially if you're driving a Subaru. Getting ahead of compliance details (like TPMS) and coordinating your state DMV requirements will make the process much smoother.

Disclaimer: This post is based on personal experience and is for informational purposes only. Rules may vary by state and Port of Entry, and compliance requirements can change. Always consult U.S. Customs and Border Protection, your state DMV, and an immigration attorney if you're in the process of applying for residency.