Nissan Skyline GT-R: chassis codes, US eligibility and cost
The Skyline GT-R is the car most people picture when they hear "JDM import". Three generations matter to US buyers: the R32, R33 and R34. All are right-hand drive and were never sold new in the United States, so the 25-year rule is the way in.
What the Nissan Skyline GT-R is
| Chassis | Years | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| C10 | 1969–1972 | The first GT-R, nicknamed "Hakosuka". Long past the 25-year line. |
| C110 | 1972–1973 | The "Kenmeri" GT-R. The badge then disappeared for 16 years. |
| R32 | 1989–1994 | Chassis BNR32. The "Godzilla" that dominated Group A racing. |
| R33 | 1995–1998 | Chassis BCNR33. Longer and heavier, more grand tourer than the R32. |
| R34 | 1999–2002 | Chassis BNR34. The last straight-six GT-R and the one most US buyers want. |
Is the Nissan Skyline GT-R legal to import to the US?
Under the US 25-year rule, a Skyline GT-R is exempt from the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards once it is 25 years old based on its date of manufacture. As of 2026, every R32, every R33 and the early R34s are past that line. A 1999 R34 has been eligible since 2024, and the final R34s, built in 2002, become eligible in 2027.
Because these cars are also more than 21 years old, they meet the EPA age exemption too, which applies only to vehicles in their original configuration, not modified from the manufacturer's original design. Eligibility turns on the build date stamped on the chassis plate, not the model year alone, so check the plate before you commit to a car.
Import eligibility under the 25-year rule is set by the date of manufacture, so always check the chassis plate. The 25-year import rule explains how the exemption works and how to confirm it. The EPA age exemption applies only to vehicles in their original configuration, not modified from the manufacturer's original design; confirm current requirements with the EPA's official vehicle-import guidance.
What it costs to land a Skyline GT-R
Four things drive the landed cost of a GT-R: the car itself, the cost of getting it out of Japan, the US import charges, and what it takes to register it where you live. Prices vary enormously by chassis, mileage, grade and condition.
On top of the purchase price, budget for the exporter fee and inland transport in Japan, ocean freight to a US port, marine insurance, US customs duty and fees, a customs bond and broker, and your state taxes and registration. Ask for a written landed-cost quote that names every line item.
Many GT-Rs have modified or worn parts, so keep a contingency for maintenance. Late R34s can carry a premium because supply is fixed while US demand is strong.
Import a Skyline: the short version
If you are set on an "import a skyline" search, start with the chassis code first, then the build date, then the grade. A clean, standard R32 or R33 is usually the simplest first import; an R34 asks for more budget and more patience. Whatever you choose, confirm eligibility from the chassis plate and get an inspection before money changes hands.
Ready to look at real cars? Browse Skyline GT-R listings at JDMBUYSELL, a marketplace that specialises in Japanese domestic market vehicles. Use the guide above to work out what you want and what it will take to land it, then compare actual listings.
Keep reading
Nissan Skyline GT-R: common questions
What Skyline GT-R chassis can I import to the US?
Under the 25-year rule, the R32 and R33 are eligible now, and R34s become eligible as each build passes 25 years old — 1999 builds from 2024, through the final 2002 cars in 2027. The earlier C10 and C110 are long eligible. Confirm the build date on the chassis plate.
Is the R34 Skyline GT-R legal in the US?
A 1999 R34 became eligible in 2024, and later R34s follow as they cross 25 years from their build date. Until a specific car is 25 years old it does not qualify through the age exemption, so the date of manufacture is what matters.
How much does it cost to import a Skyline GT-R?
There is no single number. It depends on the car, its condition, the shipping route and US port, duty, and state registration. Ask for an itemised landed-cost quote instead of a single figure.
General information only — not legal, customs or tax advice. Rules can change. Confirm current requirements with US Customs and Border Protection, NHTSA, the EPA, and your state motor vehicle agency before importing.