Honduras: Regulations, Laws & Duty Taxes

Vehicle Import Eligibility

✅ Accepted Vehicles:

• Passenger cars, SUVs, trucks, and motorcycles
• New and used vehicles are accepted

🚫 Age Limit:

• There is no official maximum age limit; however:
• Vehicles older than 10 years may face higher taxes or emissions challenges.
• Diesel vehicles older than 6 years are heavily scrutinized due to pollution regulations.

🌱 Emissions Standards:

• Vehicles must comply with minimum environmental standards—older, high-emission vehicles may be rejected or taxed higher.

⚠️ Salvage or Irreparable Vehicles:

• Vehicles labeled as salvage, junk, or with serious damage may not be allowed unless repaired and recertified.

Duty Taxes & Fees

💰 Import duty and taxes in Honduras are calculated based on the CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight).

Here’s a breakdown of what’s typically charged:

Tax Type                               Rate

Import Duty                          15% – 30% (varies by vehicle type and engine size)

Sales Tax (ISV)                     15%

Selective Consum-

ption Tax (ISC)                      10% – 35% (applied to luxury/high-displacement vehicles)

Customs Processing            $600+ USD

 FeeApprox.

💡 Customs may use a reference valuation table regardless of your declared value. Always retain a copy of the purchase invoice.

El Menaje de casa

(Returning Hondurian residents)

“Hondureños Retornados” can benefit from a customs tax exemption under the Menaje de Casa program.

🧳 Who Qualifies:

• Honduran citizens returning to Honduras after having legally resided abroad for at least 2 years

🎁 What’s Included:

• Exemption from import taxes for:
• One personal-use vehicle (not for resale)
• Household goods and personal effects

📌 Conditions:

• Vehicle must not exceed a certain value (usually around $25,000 USD—subject to change)
• Vehicle must be in good condition and meet emissions standards
• Vehicle cannot be sold for a minimum of 3 years after import
• The returnee must present:
• Proof of time abroad (e.g., utility bills, employment verification)
• Honduran passport
• RTN
• A sworn declaration of permanent return
• Application must be approved by Dirección Adjunta de Rentas Aduaneras (DARA)

Important notes & recommendations

✅ Hire a licensed Honduran customs broker—We will guide you through tax calculations and ensure the paperwork is in order
✅ Get a pre-shipping inspection to confirm vehicle eligibility
✅ Expect port fees and inland delivery costs in Honduras if not picking up directly
✅ Keep all original documentation with you or your authorized agent during pickup