Kei cars get the green light
In a win for automotive enthusiasts and fans of unique imports, Colorado has officially legalized kei cars for road use, starting in 2027. Governor Jared Polis signed HB25-1281 into law last week, allowing residents to register and drive these compact Japanese vehicles, provided they’re at least 25 years old. It’s a significant step for a vehicle category that has long existed in legal limbo within the state.
Kei cars, short for kei-jidōsha (a Japanese term that translates to “light vehicle”), are a class of micro-sized vehicles designed for efficiency, affordability, and tight Japanese city streets. They’re limited in engine size, horsepower, and physical dimensions. Popular examples include the Suzuki Cappuccino, Honda Acty, and Autozam AZ-1.
Why the wait?
While the bill is signed, it won’t go into effect until July 1, 2027, giving state agencies time to implement new registration and emissions procedures. Previously, Colorado had no laws specifically addressing kei cars. A proposed ban by the state DMV in 2024 nearly wiped out the possibility of their legal use, arguing they weren’t intended for American roads. That rule was ultimately withdrawn after pushback.
Joel Stocksdale
Until now, enthusiasts had to navigate a murky system. While some managed to obtain temporary plates, many were stymied by emissions testing requirements — particularly in the Front Range — where keis struggled to pass the usual emissions tests.
What the law says
The new legislation spells out exactly how kei vehicles will be handled in Colorado. Instead of undergoing traditional emission testing, these cars will be tested using a simpler two-speed idle method — an approach typically reserved for vehicles built before 1982. The law also formally defines kei vehicles within Colorado’s Uniform Motor Vehicle Law, giving them the same legal standing as any other registered vehicle.
However, there are limits: kei cars won’t be allowed on roads with speed limits higher than 55 mph, a sensible restriction given their limited power and modest top speeds. Governor Polis called the move a win for consumer choice, saying, “I hope [other states] join the club. We’re excited in Colorado that now Coloradans have another vehicle choice to get where they want to go. And I would encourage other states to take the same step.”
Final thoughts
Through this new law, Colorado becomes the 30th state to allow kei vehicles, joining places like Texas, California, and Florida. But regulations vary. In New Hampshire, for example, they’re restricted to a 25-mile radius of the owner’s home. Some states — like New York and Rhode Island — require costly upgrades to meet federal safety standards. Others, including Connecticut and Georgia, have banned them outright.
Joel Stocksdale
Enthusiasts in states with strict rules have found workarounds, but not without risk. In Colorado, that chapter is nearly closed. Starting in 2027, those little cars with big personalities will finally have a legal place on the road.