Inspection of Non-USA Standard Vehicles Prior to Titling

PURPOSE: This rule sets forth the procedures for issuance of Missouri certificates of title to foreign motor vehicles not specifically manufactured for importation into this country. PUBLISHER’S NOTE: The secretary of state has determined that publication of the entire text of the material that is incorporated by reference as a portion of this rule would be unduly cumbersome or expensive. This material as incorporated by reference in this rule shall be maintained by the agency at its headquarters and shall be made available to the public for inspection and copying at no more than the actual cost of reproduction. This note applies only to the reference material. The entire text of the rule is printed here. (1) Some vehicles are not manufactured for importation into the United States. In order for a certificate of title to be issued, the department requires any motor vehicle imported by a registered Missouri motor vehicle dealer, or an individual, which vehicle is not manufactured for importation into the United States, to be inspected by a member of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. At the time of the inspection, the Missouri State Highway Patrol will complete a Vehicle Examination Certificate, Form 551. This form indicates that the vehicle identification number has been verified and is correct. (2) Some motor vehicles which are purchased by Missouri residents in another country and imported into the United States are manufactured for importation into the United States and conform to all legal standards. The ownership document for these vehicles is usually a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin similar to the type issued for a motor vehicle constructed by an American manufacturer. (A) Any application for title to a motor vehicle imported into the United States which is accompanied by a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin need not be accompanied by a Vehicle Examination Certificate, Form 551. If problems are encountered at the time the application is entered into the Department of Revenue’s computer, the central office will inform the applicant to contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol to request that they inspect the vehicle and complete a Vehicle Examination Certificate. (3) The Vehicle Examination Certificate, Form 551 is incorporated by reference and made a part of this rule as published by Missouri Department of Revenue, and available at www.dor.mo.gov or Harry S Truman State Office Building, 301 W. High Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101, dated May 17, 2023. This rule does not incorporate any subsequent amendments or additions. AUTHORITY: section 301.190, RSMo Supp. 2023.* Original rule filed March 21, 1986, effective July 11, 1986. Amended: Filed Oct. 25, 2018, effective May 30, 2019. Amended: Filed July 17, 2023, effective Feb. 29, 2024. *Original authority: 301.190, RSMo 1939, amended 1947, 1965, 1981, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1992, 1997, 1999, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012, 2015, 2020.