RIV. CBSA. CUSMA. We Know the Route.
Importing a vehicle into Canada means navigating the RIV program, CBSA entry, Transport Canada safety requirements, and CUSMA duty relief. BorderTek coordinates every step.
Canada's 15-year rule makes JDM and grey market vehicles eligible a decade sooner than the US 25-year rule.
Every Vehicle Class into Canada
US-spec, JDM, European grey market — each has its own Canadian compliance path. We know all of them.
US-Spec Passenger Vehicles
The most common import — US-built vehicles entering Canada. Often CUSMA-qualified for 0% duty and need minor safety modifications.
Trucks & SUVs
Full-size North American trucks and SUVs — including models sold in the US but not offered in the Canadian market.
JDM & Grey Market
Canada's 15-year rule makes JDM vehicles eligible a full decade sooner than the US. Popular models from Japan become importable years earlier.
Motorcycles
Street and touring motorcycles from the US or overseas — RIV process applies, Transport Canada safety standards coordinated.
Vans & Commercial
Cargo vans, passenger vans, and light commercial vehicles — compliance coordinated for both private and business imports.
15-Year Exempt Vehicles
Vehicles 15+ years old are exempt from RIV modifications — simpler entry, no safety modification requirement, direct provincial registration.
15 Years — That's the Line
Canada's 15-year exemption rule is the defining factor in how your vehicle enters. We assess this first, every time.
15-Year Exemption
Canada's exemption rule applies to vehicles 15+ years old — a full decade sooner than the US 25-year rule. Exempt vehicles skip the RIV modification process entirely.
- ▸No RIV safety modifications required
- ▸No RIV Form 1 / inspection needed
- ▸CBSA entry + duty/GST still apply
- ▸Direct to provincial registration
- ▸Popular for JDM, EU, and US classics
RIV Program
Vehicles under 15 years old imported from the US must go through the Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV). Safety modifications are required before provincial registration.
- ▸RIV Form 1 filed at CBSA
- ▸Recall check — Transport Canada
- ▸Daytime running lights (DRL) if needed
- ▸Speedometer in km/h required
- ▸RIV inspection at certified garage
CBSA. RIV. Province.
Three Layers, One Team.
Canadian vehicle imports touch three distinct compliance layers — federal CBSA customs entry, the Transport Canada RIV program, and provincial registration requirements. Each layer has its own timeline, fees, and documentation.
BorderTek coordinates all three. From duty and GST assessment at the border to RIV modification sign-off and provincial inspection guidance — we keep the process moving so your vehicle gets on the road.
Get a Canada Vehicle QuoteBorder to Registration
CBSA Entry & RIV Filing
B3 customs entry filed at the Canadian border. RIV Form 1 submitted at the port, duty paid, and GST assessed. CUSMA origin certified where applicable.
Modifications & RIV Inspection
For RIV-required vehicles: safety modifications completed at a certified garage within 45 days. RIV inspection passed — sticker issued.
Provincial Registration
RIV sticker, CBSA release docs, and title package ready for provincial MTO/SAAQ/ICBC registration. Your vehicle is on Canadian roads.
Common Questions
🍁 Bring Your Vehicle Into Canada — Compliantly
BorderTek coordinates CBSA entry, RIV program compliance, and CUSMA duty relief so your vehicle clears the border and hits the road.