Interpretation ID: nht68-1.47

DATE: 01/12/68

FROM: AUTHOR UNAVAILABLE; Robert M. O'Mahoney; NHTSA

TO: Headquarters 26th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing (USAFE)

TITLE: FMVSR INTERPRETATION

TEXT: This is in reply to your letter of November 21, 1967, to Mr. Lowell K. Bridwell, requesting information on the enforcement of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 with reference to vehicles imported by servicemen.

Specifically you have asked:

"a. If (1) A foreign made vehicle, or (2) An American made vehicle, which was purchased prior to 1 January 1968, is imported into the Continental United States subsequent to 1 January 1968, must the vehicle conform to the standards presently established?"

The Federal motor vehicle safety standards affect only vehicles manufactured on or after January 1, 1968. Vehicles manufactured prior to January 1, 1968, need not conform.

"b. Is there any exception for vehicles purchased after 1 January 1968 and imported after that date from the safety standards?"

I enclose a copy of the regulations promulgated jointly by the Department of Transportation and the Department of the Treasury which appeared in the Federal Register on January 10 which govern importation of vehicles. Section 12.80 (b)(1), (b)(2), (b)(3), and (b)(7) set out exemptions which are applicable, generally, to American citizens including servicemen (for whom no special exemption is provided).

Currently we have no information as to which foreign made vehicles will conform to the standards. I agree that information concerning which cars would be helpful to overseas military personnel and I am hopeful that eventually we may be able to implement your suggestion.

For your information, we plan, in the near future, to inaugurate an information program for United States military and civilian personnel overseas. Among those who will be contacted in this regard are the legal assistance officers of each of the Staff Judge Advocates of the Military Services.