Interpretation ID: nht68-3.24

DATE: 04/16/68

FROM: AUTHOR UNAVAILABLE; Joseph R. O'Gorman; NHTSA

TO: R.J. Townsly

TITLE: FMVSR INTERPRETATION

TEXT: Thank you for your letter of February 23, 1968, to the Department of Transportation, in regard to information pertaining to importation into the United States of a right hand drive Canadian manufactured vehicle.

If your vehicle was manufactured prior to January 1, 1968, the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards would not apply, however, if built after January 1, 1968, full compliance to Federal Safety Standards is necessary.

While it is not clear from your letter, the status of your visa, or how long you wish to have the car in the United States a solution to your problem may be provided by the regulations governing the importation of motor vehicles subject to the Federal Standards which became effective January 10, 1968. You will see from 19 CFR Section 12.80 (b) (v) of the regulations enclosed that a non-resident of the United States may import a non-confirming motor vehicle for personal use for a period of not more than one year, and that it may not be resold in the United States.

The National Highway Safety Bureau has not been informed of the manner in which vehicles of Canadian manufacture, including those with right hand drive, do not comply with the Federal Standards. It would be best to communicate directly with the Canadian manufacturer as to the extent of modification necessary should you not come with the 12.80 (b) (v) exception.

If we can be of further assistance, please let us hear from you.