Karl,
Here are a couple of links to the CA Vehicle Code:
V.C. Section 4156 - Temporary Permit
http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/reg_hdbk_pdf/ch25.pdf
If you have a TOP, then it sounds like you can operate your vehicle without restrictions for the length of the TOP, but I'm not an attorney or in law enforcement.
Good luck and fight it.