India Eases Rules For Importing Vintage Cars Older Than 50 Years

In a significant development, the Government of India has revised its Import Policy to make it easier for car enthusiasts to import vintage cars. A notification from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, dated February 7, 2025, confirms that vehicles aged 50 years or older are now eligible for free import, removing the need for an import license.

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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. The policy’s rolling nature ensures that the list of eligible vehicles will continue to evolve each year, allowing collectors access to a wider range of iconic vintage models in India.

However, the new policy comes with specific stipulations. 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.

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Under the new policy, only “actual users”—individuals who intend to personally use these cars—are permitted to import vintage vehicles. The notification also specifies that imported vintage cars must comply with the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988 and the Central Motor Vehicles Rules of 1989, ensuring they meet the safety and environmental standards required for use on public roads.

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