Registering Your JDM Import in Australia: A Complete Guide (Tokyo Drive Edition)

So, you’ve just landed your dream JDM car from Japan, and the excitement is real. You can almost feel the engine roar and see yourself cruising through the streets of Sydney or Melbourne. But hold on—before you hit the road, there’s one crucial step left: registering your JDM import in Australia.

At Tokyo Drive, we don’t just help you import Japanese cars; we make sure the entire process is seamless—including the all-important registration. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about registering your JDM car once it arrives Down Under.

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Why Registration Matters

In Australia, every vehicle on the road must be registered. Without registration, you can’t legally drive your JDM import. More importantly, registration ensures your car is safe, roadworthy, and properly taxed.

Step-by-Step: Registering Your JDM Car

1. Compliance Check

Before registration, your JDM vehicle must meet Australian Design Rules (ADRs). This involves a compliance inspection carried out by a Registered Automotive Workshop (RAW). At Tokyo Drive, we pre-inspect cars before shipment to streamline this stage.

2. Get a Vehicle Import Approval (VIA)

You must apply for a Vehicle Import Approval from the Department of Infrastructure. This legal document confirms your car is eligible to enter Australia.

3. Quarantine Clearance

Once your vehicle arrives, it goes through an Australian quarantine inspection. Your JDM import must be clean and free of biohazards like dirt, seeds, or plant material.

4. Modifications (If Required)

Depending on your state, some modifications might be necessary—like speedometer conversion to km/h, child restraint anchorage installation, or emission control updates.

5. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Plate

Some imports require a new VIN plate issued by a certified workshop. Your existing chassis number might not be accepted for registration.

6. Roadworthy Certificate (RWC)

You’ll need a roadworthy certificate, proving your vehicle is safe to drive. This involves inspecting brakes, lights, tyres, and suspension.

7. Pay Registration Fees and Taxes

Fees vary by state but generally include:

• Stamp duty
• Registration fee
• Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance

8. Final Registration

With all paperwork in hand, you can visit your state’s road authority (e.g., VicRoads, Service NSW) and officially register your imported Japanese car.

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State-by-State Differences

Each Australian state has slightly different rules. Here’s a quick overview:

• New South Wales: Requires Blue Slip, Green Slip, and Proof of Identity.
• Victoria: Needs VASS certification for compliance.
• Queensland: Requires safety certificate and import paperwork.
• South Australia: May need roadworthy and modification approval.
• Western Australia: Often more lenient but still needs inspection.

Pro Tips from Tokyo Drive

• Keep Records: Maintain all documents from the time of purchase to registration.
• Pre-clean Your Vehicle: This will help you avoid quarantine delays.
• Bundle Services: At Tokyo Drive, we offer packages that include compliance, transport, and documentation.
• Check Local Laws: Always double-check with your local authority for updates.

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Why Choose Tokyo Drive for JDM Imports?

Tokyo Drive is more than just an importer. We’re your partner in every step—from selecting your ideal JDM vehicle to handing over the keys post-registration. Our team stays updated on the latest registration laws and compliance changes to save you time and hassle.

We import a wide range of Japanese vehicles including:

• Nissan Skyline
• Toyota Supra
• Honda Integra
• Mazda RX-7
• Subaru WRX

And yes, we handle all the tricky paperwork so you can focus on the fun stuff—like driving.

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Final Thoughts

Registering your JDM import in Australia might seem daunting, but with the right guidance and a trusted partner like Tokyo Drive, the process becomes a breeze. We believe in making your JDM dream car journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

So, whether you’re in Brisbane, Perth, or anywhere in between, count on Tokyo Drive to deliver not just a car, but a complete experience.

Ready to drive? Let’s get you on the road—legally, safely, and in style.

Visit Tokyo Drive today and start your JDM import journey the right way!