Registering a foreign vehicle in California (post 1976)?

[ivwshane]

In my search for a dual cab I've expanded my search to outside of the country but I have no idea what I would be in for.

Has anyone registered a foreign vehicle in California that was newer than the 1976 smog exemption? How difficult was the process? What if the vehicle isn't in running condition or doesn't have the original or correct motor?
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77 westy 2.0 FI
69 ghia coup 1600dp
70 single cab

[parker007]

you just said all things that make not possible. after 76 have to be ca smog legal. get oregon plate hahaahah

[ivwshane]

[Wildthings]

California isn't going to make this easy, you really need to find the right person to talk to with the state. That said, it is my understanding that you have to make an imported vehicle meet the pollution requirements it had to meet when it left the factory, but that if there were no requirements for a particular vehicle then you are SOL.

[LazyLightning75]

I second what Wildthings said...go directly to the source of information and call the CA DMV. I think you can also submit questions to them by email. When I was considering buying a bus without a title, I called the CA DMV. Took forever to get to the right person, and she was grumpy as all get out when I did reach her, but she gave me some great advice and outlined the whole process on how it could be done (although she recommended against it). I was super polite and eventually she loosened up, but it was worth the hassle. Wish I still had that phone number to pass along to you. Good luck and when you call, have your list of questions ready for them!
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1975 Riviera 1.8L FI

[SGKent]

California will be the port of entry so it will have to meet these requirements:

https://www.arb.ca.gov/html/master_faqs/vehicle_faqs/greymarket_cars_faq.htm
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“Most people don’t know what they’re doing, and a lot of them are really good at it.” - George Carlin

[ivwshane]

[Wildthings]

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