CA DMV...., looking for info on registering with CA DMV Options

[CCSmith58]

---I'll EDIT the post---
Thanks to all for the for the replies !!
I was just a little worried about CA DMV getting too much info, but what the hell.....
I'll throw out some more about the car and my issues...

My concern is that when the car is complete it will NOT be a 1975 1.8 4cyl 914.
'75 chassis / frame - '95 rebuilt / modified 3.6 engine
'74 rebuilt / modified 915 Transaxle - Performance Suspension - ect....
I bought the chassis / frame from a Gentleman in Utah.
A roller. No engine or trans.
The Title was not in his name.
It's a Colorado Title from the Owner he bought it from in 2016
The car is currently in Utah being restored / rebuilt.
I'm not sure if the car has all 4 (?) of the VIN tags / stamps.
I'll check with the Builder in Utah.
There we go...
I'll start asking about CA Insurance later....



Hello 914ers !!
looking for info on registering an out of state, MODIFIED 914 with CA DMV.
I'm in Los Angeles County. 5 miles N & W of the RoseBowl.
Message me for more details of the vehicle.
I'm a ways away from a finished car.
Just want to start gathering info..... THANKS !!

[Mike Bellis]

In California a 1975 vehicle is exempt from bi-annual smog inspections but not exempt from properly functioning smog equipment. Every vehicle entering the state needing registration will require a VIN inspection.

If you want to be compliant with the law, The car, when running will need to go to a referee inspector to verify the drivetrain, and then they will put a BAR sticker that defines it will be required to have ALL of the donor engine's smog equipment in place. If it's a '95 motor, you need all the smog equipment from the donor car. Since there are no smog inspection requirements, you could possibly skip this step.

Be advised that pre-C-demic, the CA DMV would run random rolling smog inspections. I haven't seen any since 2019. They are very rare but could put you in violation if you get caught in one. They also dip diesel fuel tanks in trucks looking for red diesel (farm or tax-free fuel).

If the car has a "salvage" title, you will need the brake and light inspection. Otherwise, you won't need one.

The VIN verification is real. I have done both the DMV and CHP. DMV was easier as they know nothing about cars. The CHP knows about VIN's and modifications. I recommend the DMV. They will look for common VIN locations and not at the engine at all. Trailer it in and don't mention there is no engine. No VIN in the engine bay. If they ask why you trailered... "No tags", so you can't drive it.

If you are the current registered owner, it's easier to make the transfer and usually cheaper. Just pay all the fees they have and you should be done.

I've brought several cars /motorcycles into the CA. going direct to the DMV is by far the best way to go. Just don't volunteer too much information. Glad I don't live there now. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)