Is It Legal To Build Your Own Car in the U.S.?
The most dedicated auto enthusiasts find no greater satisfaction than building a car from scratch. For many, it’s the threshold for becoming a self-proclaimed automotive expert. And there is much to be said about putting every intricate part of an engine together. Every working part needs to function properly — much like the human body. But is it legal to build your own car?
We’ve got your answer below. And yes, it may surprise you.
Can you build your own car?
We all know what’s expected of your traditional car buying experience. First, you start off by hopping from dealership to dealership. Next, you lay eyes on your dream car. And last, you front enough cash to be able to drive off that lot with a new set of keys. I’d say for most car buyers, this is the typical experience.
But, there are some drivers who like to take their car to the next level: the ones that build their own car. It sounds like a daunting task for most, however, those who dare to take on the intricacies of automotive construction deserve a round of applause.
The question is: Is it legal?
Americans have the Greenlight (insert Matthew McConaughey voice) when it comes to building their own vehicle. You could say it’s another nod to our quest for liberty or perhaps a tale as old as time. One thing we know for sure, Americans are die-hard car enthusiasts. However, not all are brave enough to take on the task of building your own vehicle. Those who do must comply with strict safety regulations while doing so.
What conditions apply?
In order to build your own car, there are safety regulations to follow. You must take into consideration seat belts, gas emissions, bumpers, even the height of the vehicle. You need to maintain documentation and receipts of every car part you buy for when the time comes to register the vehicle.
Once your self-made car has reached its final stage of production, take it to the DMV for an inspection and registration. Keep in mind, this step is unnecessary if you only plan to drive it on your private property.
Why you need to register the vehicle
The reason you need to register your self-made car is due to safety. Although the U.S. government tolerates the option of registering your own vehicle, they want to keep the safety of all drivers at the utmost priority. In addition, a registered vehicle needs vehicle identification number to make all things kosher.
Are you ready to build your own car?
Is building a car by hand an easy process? Definitely not. But those looking for a challenge will enjoy it every step of the way. Before you begin, familiar yourself with all legal parameters, that way you don’t face any hiccups throughout the build. Another great tip is to get in touch with some experienced car builders. Even YouTube accounts can offer step by step instructions on how to build certain molds of a self-made car.
The best thing you can do is take each step with caution. Whether it takes you a few months or a few years, you’ll be glad you did every step the right way. And legally of course.
What is your reaction?
What I’m reading here is that we COULD all be riding around in Mad Max style cars, but nobody has been brave enough.
Even though it is legal to build your own car I don’t think I ever will. It takes a lot of knowledge ands years of training to do.
Oh wow, I didn’t know you were supposed to register your car after modifying your vehicle. I learned something new today. Good to know!
I would highly recommend buying a kit car and assembling it yourself. You can buy them partially assembled and make some pretty sweet roadsters. AC cobra kit cars are relatively affordable, and they offer an iconic high performance vehicle to build in your own garage and can be easily made street legal.
Kodos to anyone building a car. That is a lot of work and rules to follow.
Indeed we do!
I think it’s a cool idea but I wouldn’t build my own. Insurance prices are already too high. i’d imagine they’d go up if it was a homemade vehicle.
A “homemade vehicle” sounds like it was baked in an oven, lol. I prefer custom, original, one-of-a-kind… :).
Yeah! America!
I love one of a kind diy cars. More people should do this so as to learn and challenge yourself. It could be a weekend project with friends or high school kids etc. There is no end to what could be created and what it might help do for the auto industry.
Have fun and enjoy the build, it could be the journey of a lifetime.