Import Japanese Cars to Trinidad and Tobago
Complete Import Regulations & Procedures Guide
RHD Caribbean market. Age cap and licence — confirm before buying....
Age-capped
Last verified: August 2026Quick Navigation
Year Restriction
Used cars age-capped (confirm Customs — commonly 6 years)
Shipping Time
10-14 weeks
Year Restrictions
Used cars age-capped (confirm Customs — commonly 6 years)
Trinidad and Tobago is RHD. Used left-hand-drive is not for normal import. A maximum age (often 6 years) has applied to used foreign used cars — confirm the Ministry of Trade / Customs and Excise Division instrument currently in force. Import licence / e-certificate may be required before arrival.
Destination Port & Shipping Information
Main Destination Port
Port of Spain
Alternative Ports:
- Port of Spain
- Point Lisas
Shipping Duration:
10-14 weeks
Vessel Schedule & Shipping Lines
Preferred Shipping Lines:
- NYK
- MOL
- Hoegh Autoliners
Inspection Requirements
Inspection Type:
Customs examination + licensing inspection
Last verified & official sources
Last verified: August 2026 — rules and rates change; confirm with the authority before you buy.
Import Duties & Taxes
Import Duty
Customs duty + motor vehicle tax (confirm Customs & Excise Division)
VAT
VAT on importation (confirm current T&T rate)
Required Documentation
Required Documents:
-
Import licence / e-cert if required
-
Export Certificate
-
Bill of Lading
-
Invoice
-
BIR number
Documents for Company Importers:
Important Notes
Official: Trinidad and Tobago Customs and Excise Division; Ministry of Trade. Age notices change — verify in writing.
Helpful Tips
Do not ship a 7–8 year JDM car until Customs confirms the cap.
Import Regulations Overview
RHD Caribbean market. Age cap and licence — confirm before buying.
Step by step: (1) Licence + age check. (2) Buy. (3) Port of Spain. (4) Duty/VAT. (5) Licensing office.
