DMV Help: Registration for Expired Out-of-State Plates in CA (San Mateo: car insurance, inspection)

[svander1]

Hello out there.

Long story short, I ended up with expired out-of-state plates in California. The registration expired a couple weeks ago. The car has been in California for 6 months.

I would like to get the car registered in California. I took a look at the DMV's website and have a basic idea of what I need to do, but I'm hoping someone can provide a more detailed breakdown of how to proceed. (And yes, I know this was supposed to be done 6 months ago and that I will need to pay late fees. The situation is a little complicated.)

When I register, I'll need to take the car to the DMV for inspection, yes?
Should I get a smog check before or after I register?
How long does it take to get the plates?

A step-by-step would be greatly appreciated, but if I can get any of these questions answered, that would be fantastic. Regardless, I plan to make my way to the San Mateo DMV later this week. It would just be nice to know some of this information in advance.

Thanks!

[Tallysmom]

Without a certificate saying you need a smog, no one will give you a smog. And not all cars need smogged.

Go register the car first. For the love of Mike, make an appointment. When I go to the DMV, the non-appointment line is hours long..... and no one is on the appointment line.

Gather up all your old state's stuff -- registration, car insurance, and documents you think you MIGHT need, and take the other state's plates. (So take a screwdriver to get the old plates off) The old states plates may have to be surrendered.

When you get there go the appointment line, and register. You'll be given a lettered number (like A26, B17...) Wait for your number to called -- you might not hear it, so watch the alert tv screens, too. Go to the window you are sent to, and there you'll be told where to go around the building and you will walk out with a new registration card, plates and stickers.

It's not as scary as it sounds -- our plates get stolen every once in a while, and thieves peel off our stickers even more regularly, so I'm getting to be a pro at this...