Buying and Selling FAQs

We've done our best to cover everything you need to know about buying and selling vehicles in New Hampshire. However, if you still can't find what you're looking for, check out the below commonly asked questions.

I'm going to purchase a vehicle from an individual seller across town. Can I get temporary tags to get it home?

Stop by your town clerk's office and tell them you need to apply for 20-day temporary tags.

The fee is $10. They are nonrenewable, and you must register the vehicle within those 20 days to get regular plates.

What kinds of fees and taxes am I looking at when I buy a vehicle?

In addition to the registration and titling fees, you must pay the fees for your license plate.

How can I bring a vehicle to New Hampshire that I purchased in another country?

The process largely depends on whether the vehicle conforms to America's importation guidelines. Check with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and their vehicle importation regulations.

Can I import a vehicle into the state for the lone purpose of repair?

Yes you can, but you won't be allowed to operate it on U.S. soil under any circumstances. Upon entering the vehicle into the U.S., you will need to provide Customs with EPA Form 3520-1, making sure to declare code "G," and you will need to post a bond.

If I'm a temporary New Hampshire resident can I import a vehicle into the state?

Yes, provided you can prove your nonresident status to Customs. Upon entering the vehicle you will need to provide Customs with EPA Form 3520-1, making sure to declare code "O." No bond is required.

If a car I bought in Canada conforms to all Canadian motor vehicle safety standards (CMVSS) but not Federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) can I still bring it into New Hampshire?

Yes, but to do so the vehicle must:

• Be brought into the States for personal use only. It cannot be imported for the sole intent of selling.

• Not be a salvage vehicle, a repaired salvage vehicle, or a reconstructed vehicle.

• Come with a letter from the vehicle's original manufacturer, on the manufacturer's letterhead, listing the vehicle identification number (VIN), and claiming that the car adheres to all applicable FMVSS except for the labeling requirements of Standards Numbers 101 Controls and Displays and 110 Tire Selection and Rims or 120 Tire Selection and Rims for Motor Vehicles other than Passenger Cars, and/or the specifications of Standard Number 108 Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment, relating to daytime running lamps.

Can a Canadian-imported vehicle under 25 years old be brought permanently into the state under Box 3 on the U.S. Custom's HS-7 Declaration form?

Yes, as long as:

• The vehicle is not a salvage or reconstructed vehicle.

• It is imported by a Registered Importer (RI) or by a person who harbors a contract with an RI to modify the vehicle so that it conforms to FMVSS.

• You provide to U.S. Customs at the time of entry a bond equivalent in amount to 150% of the vehicle's dutiable value so as to guarantee that it will be modified within 120 days to conform to FMVSS.

If I inherit a vehicle from Canada can I get an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) exemption?

Yes. However, you must complete EPA Form 3520-1, making sure you declare code "M" on it, and hand this to U.S. Customs upon entry into New Hampshire. You will also need to provide proof that the vehicle was acquired via inheritance and that it was owned by a Canadian resident.

When it comes to importing a vehicle are there are any hardship exemptions for vehicles that don't conform to EPA standards?

Only in extreme cases, such as handicap needs or if a driver provides proof that the vehicle is essential for basic living purposes. But keep in mind that even these situations are subject to tight scrutiny.

Find New and Used Cars for Sale in New Hampshire