Vintage and classic cars over 50 years and older now allowed, Government Now Relaxes import Policy

Akash Patil

10 Feb 2025, 03:43 PM

The Indian government has updated its vintage car import policy.
Earlier, cars manufactured before 1950 were allowed for import. Whereas now, under the new regulations, cars 50 years or older can be imported without a license.
The age of the vehicle is calculated from the date of its first registration after initial sale.
The revised policy works on a rolling basis. This means every year, the eligibility will be extended to cars made a year later.

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The Government of India has updated its import regulations, opening the door for vintage car lovers to legally bring in vehicles that are 50 years and older. This new policy represents a major shift, expanding the eligibility for importing classic cars to include vehicles manufactured up to 1975, broadening the previous limit of pre-1950 cars.

Until now, Indians could only import cars classified as “classic” or “vintage” manufactured before 1950. Under the new policy, cars 50 years or older can be imported licence-free.

Furthermore, the 50-year limit is on a rolling basis, meaning that cars built up to 1976 would be eligible next year, and so forth.

Classic automobile enthusiasts can now acquire and restore ancient cars thanks to a change in legislation that previously made it difficult to import older vehicles. With this new rule, collectors and enthusiasts can now legally bring in iconic models from around the world,

The relaxation is a welcome effort for the budding community of car enthusiasts in India who seek to revere classic cars in the country.

This new regulation opens up intriguing possiblities, whether it’s a classic Japanese automobile, a rare European vintage, or an American muscle car that has stood the test of time.

Notably, The government has clarified that these vintage cars are for personal use only, and resale within the domestic market is strictly prohibited. In a stern warning to dealers, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) stated that any attempt to sell imported vintage cars could lead to stricter regulations, including a potential five-year no-sale rule. Further, cars meant for public road use must conform to the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.

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