Buying guides
Mustang, Challenger, RAM: registering an American car in Europe
American muscle cars and pick-ups can be registered in Europe, as long as you plan the approval. The steps, the usual technical changes and the costs to check before you buy.
By Alexandre Zakaria2 min read
A Mustang GT, a Challenger or a RAM 1500 bought in the United States or in Dubai can be driven legally in Europe. But in their American or Gulf versions, most of these models have no European certificate of conformity: they go through individual approval. Here is how it works, using France as the example.
Before you buy: the vehicle history
A North American car has a history you can trace from its chassis number (VIN): previous owners, title status, reported accidents, mileage readings. We get this report and send it to you before any deposit. We do not ship cars with a salvage or rebuilt title (written off, then rebuilt) unless you ask for one explicitly and knowingly.
The usual technical changes
To pass approval, an American car often needs a few changes:
- amber rear indicators: many American models use the red brake lights as indicators, which is not allowed in Europe;
- lighting: headlights adjusted or replaced to European standards, and a rear fog light;
- a speedometer in km/h: the display must be able to show speed in kilometres per hour;
- number plates: a mounting suited to the European format.
The exact list depends on the model and year; an approval specialist draws it up before the work.
The procedure in France
- Customs clearance on arrival: duties and VAT, after which customs issues form 846A, proving the car is in order with customs.
- Individual approval (réception à titre isolé) with the DREAL, often after a visit to UTAC for tests and technical evidence.
- Registration on the ANTS website, with the 846A, the approval report and the original documents.
Allow 3 to 4 weeks for approval, once the car has arrived and the changes are made.
The cost not to forget: taxes
Big engines emit a lot of CO₂. In France, the environmental penalty (malus écologique) applies at registration and can be a very large sum on a V8. Check the amount on the official simulator before you buy: it is often the deciding item. Other European countries have their own registration taxes, based on emissions or power.
Belgium, Switzerland, Germany
The principle is the same everywhere: individual approval, a technical inspection, then registration. The bodies and timings vary from one country to another (approved inspection centres in Belgium, the cantonal vehicle office in Switzerland, the TÜV in Germany). We point you to the right contacts before you buy.
Where these cars come from
We source American models in the United States and Canada, shipping from New York, Houston or Los Angeles, and also in Dubai, where muscle cars and full-size pick-ups are plentiful. See our North American cars.
In short: check the history, budget for the changes and the taxes, and allow 3 to 4 weeks for approval. We prepare the rest with you.
