Most states have titling and registration laws that require residents to title and register their cars in the state—and for new residents of the state to do so within some period of time, such as 30 days. Some states require titled cars to pass a comprehensive safety inspection. And some states also require cars owned by residents of certain counties to pass an emissions test/inspection designed to improve air quality in more densely populated counties.
In California, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires residents to title and register their vehicles within the state. New residents must register their out-of-state vehicles within 20 days of establishing residency. This involves providing the necessary documentation, paying applicable fees, and obtaining California license plates. Additionally, California has a stringent emissions testing program known as the Smog Check Program. Most vehicles are required to pass a smog check every two years for registration renewal, and when a vehicle is being sold or transferred. The smog check requirement applies to residents in most counties, especially urban areas, to ensure that vehicles meet state air quality standards. However, some vehicles, such as electric vehicles and those that are a certain age or newer, may be exempt from this requirement. Safety inspections are not required for private passenger vehicles in California.