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What do we want? Cheap trucks! What do we also want? Tiny trucks! But if options like the Ford Maverick are too expensive and hard to find, check out a more affordable option. Kei trucks could be the perfect choice, but are they legal? 

Can you legally drive a Kei truck on the road?

Yes, you can legally drive a Kei truck on the road depending on the state that you live in. According to KeiTruckConnect, only 19 states allow mini trucks to be driven on the road. 

Also, the laws are different in each state. Some only allow the micro trucks to be driven on private lands. Plus, their compact size and speed limitations make them dangerous to use on the highway. 

Some states only allow you to use these trucks if they’re registered for agricultural use, and have updated safety features.

You may be required to get a permit for your tiny truck and it could be subject to regular inspections. But on a positive note, there are no off-roading restrictions. 

The Toyota IMV 0 Kei truck on display
Toyota IMV 0 Kei truck | Toyota

Because there are federal limitations on foreign vehicles, these trucks can’t be imported until they turn 25 years old, so don’t expect modern amenities. 

The National Traffic Highway Safety Administration (NHSTA) claims that the trucks don’t fall under the category of motor vehicles, so they don’t have to meet federal safety standards. 

People are drawn to Kei trucks because they typically cost between $4,500 to $10,000. The new Toyota IMV 0 option starts at $10,000 in other countries. They’re so affordable that drivers don’t even care that the trucks are right-handed. 

Currently, you can legally drive mini trucks in: 

  • California 
  • Texas 
  • Alabama 
  • Florida 
  • North Carolina 
  • Washington 
  • Ohio 
  • North Dakota 
  • Minnesota 
  • Maine 
  • Georgia 
  • New Hampshire 
  • Kentucky 
  • Oklahoma 
  • Montana 
  • Arkansas 
  • Illinois
  • Kansas 

Ford proved that the desire for small, affordable trucks exists with the Maverick. Also, the Toyota IMV 0 has tons of popularity. Hopefully, automakers are paying attention.

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.