California registration for out of state purchase

[RodKnock]

Originally Posted by Got the Bug

Failure is not an option! Seriously, you won't have any problem getting an SB100 number if you have all of your ducks in a row.

Regarding the Smog check at the BAR. You only need to go to the BAR once to do the smog test and that's AFTER you get your SB100 sequence number in January. You can go before, but you'll be paying to see your car fail. The final visit after you have your SB100 sequence number is free.

The basic order is:

- DMV to pay fees (sales tax/reg fees)
- Inspections required by DMV (CHP, may ask for brake/light)
- Ask for TOP to do inspections
- Ask for more TOPs because inspections are taking longer than you thought
- Get SB100 sequence number in January
- Visit BAR when you have sequence number. They'll print out SB100 exemption sticker. Drive and enjoy!

Don't forget, you also have to bring all the paperwork back to the DMV before you pass go.

Do NOT get a smog check before you're in the SB100 process and already have your sequence # (i.e., golden ticket). I don't know what will happen, but it probably won't be good. You may get your car labeled as a "gross polluter" which may detour you and your car.