Honduras Import Regulations

General Information & Import Rules

• • Who Can Import: Private individuals and registered businesses in Honduras.
• • Drive Orientation: Only Left-Hand Drive (LHD) vehicles are allowed; Right-Hand Drive (RHD) vehicles are strictly prohibited.
• • Age Restriction: Generally, vehicles must be a maximum of 10 years old (calculated from the year of manufacture).
• • Special Vehicle Types: Refurbished or rebuilt vehicles are generally not permitted unless they meet specific certification and repair requirements.

Shipping & Logistics

• • Destination Port: Puerto Cortés is the primary and recommended port of entry.
• • Shipment Details: Approximately 2–4 weeks via container shipping, RORO, or consolidation services.
• • Trade Benefits: Vehicles qualifying under CAFTA-DR may benefit from reduced duties if they meet the specific rules of origin.

Duties & Taxes

• • Customs Duty: Standard 10% calculated on the vehicle's CIF value.
• • VAT: 15% applied on the combined CIF value and Import Duty.
• • Selective Consumption Tax: 1% of the CIF value.
• • Additional Levies: Potential environmental taxes may apply based on engine size and emissions.

Honduran Compliance

• • Technical Inspection: Every vehicle must undergo a physical inspection for roadworthiness and emissions compliance.
• • Registration: License plates and registration are issued only after passing all technical and tax requirements.
• • Insurance: Mandatory Honduran vehicle protection coverage is required for legal operation.

Required Documentation

• • Original Vehicle Title (clear of all liens).
• • Commercial Invoice (detailing full vehicle specifications).
• • Original Bill of Lading (BoL).
• • Certificate of Origin (required for CAFTA-DR eligibility).
• • Honduran RTN (Tax ID) and valid Passport.
• • Export Certificate and Residency Documentation.
• • Financial Proof of ability to pay all import taxes.