Registering an Out of State Pontiac Grand Prix.

I am interested in buying a 1981 through 1987 Pontiac Grand Prix. All of the cars I have inquired about have emissions label on the radiator support that do not state if they are California compliant. Can I import an unmolested car to California?

I am aware of the fee for bringing a vehicle into CA when someone moves here. Is there a similar fee I could pay, or does it need to have California specific catalytic/emissions label? The cars I am currently looking at are originally from Arizona,Georgia and North Carolina. Thank You.

Answer:

There is a difference with California legal and Federal legal emission requirements. However if the Pontiac Grand Prix you plan on purchasing is equipped with the Federal required emission components (which is originally equipped with) it can pass the California smog check and register with the CA DMV.

The rule is any USED vehicle which is equipped with the necessary Federal Emission Components is eligible for California registration as long as the vehicle's exhaust emissions fall within California's limits and the vehicle's emission system has not been tampered with. This exemption does not apply to new vehicles.

posted by SmogTips Support