Importing a Nissan Skyline R33 GT-R to the USA: 2026 Cost Breakdown
The legendary RB26-powered GT-R that once seemed forbidden fruit is now landing legally on American shores.
The R33 GT-R pairs the twin-turbocharged RB26DETT inline-six with Nissan's ATTESA all-wheel-drive system for serious all-weather performance.
Long restricted from US roads, the R33 generation has now crossed the 25-year threshold and become freely importable.
The full cost breakdown
Plug in your own purchase figure — everything below the vehicle scales only modestly with value. All amounts are researched 2026 estimates in USD.
| Vehicle (purchase price) | $55,000 |
| Export agent & auction fees | $1,200 |
| Ocean freight | $2,700 |
| Marine insurance (~1.5%) | $825 |
| The standard US passenger-car import duty is 2.5% of declared value | $1,375 |
| Customs broker & port handling | $830 |
| EPA / DOT entry & compliance paperwork | $300 |
| Inland transport & registration | $1,500 |
| Estimated all-in landed cost | $63,730 |
Compliance & the fine print
R33 GT-R models built 25 or more years ago are exempt from FMVSS under the DOT's 25-year rule, with EPA exemption following at 21 years. Always confirm the exact build month on the chassis plate before purchase, since eligibility is calculated month by month.
Frequently asked questions
Is the R33 GT-R legal to import to the USA now?+
Yes, R33 GT-R cars older than 25 years qualify for the DOT exemption and can be imported legally.
Do I need to modify the car for US registration?+
Under the 25-year exemption the car can be imported in original form, though individual state inspection and registration rules still apply.
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