so i have a 72 grand prix with a 400 . i've been working on this thing for a while now and now that its " road worthy" i have another problem . it has not been driven or registered for 24 years . i'm not familiar with california laws so should i have any problems gettin this thing registered ? i have not really modified it too much at all .
   do they inspect the car ? what are the inspectors looking for  ? what do i need to have on the car and what can i not have ? what are the laws regarding plexiglass type windows ? is there a site that can answer all these questions . i looked on the dmv website and they were no help . well anything help . thanks folks .  

Tom, as you know from our previous discussions, I'm from Canada, so I can't be certain about California's laws. However, the first thing to do is go to the DMV office closest to you and ask what documentation you require to register a car. Likely you will need the ownership, bill of sale, proof of inspection (and, being California likely an emission test) and proof of insurance. As far as finding out what you require to pass inspection, check the Yellow Pages for inspection stations and call or visit a few and ask some questions, most mechanics will be happy to tell you what they can or cannot pass. As a professional mechanic here in Canada, we have a large book of guidelines that is full of lawyer written legal mumbo-jumbo that is pretty much open to interpretation by the technician doing the inspection. Good luck.
Steve  

I live here in CA- any car that is pre '75 is exempt from smog testing. I'm happy about that too since my 'Bird is a '72 and not stock. You will need a bill of sale and the title- if you don't have that it takes longer (more forms to fill out) but it's still possible to get the car registered.

The DMV may require you to bring the car in for a safety inspection since it's been off the road for so long. They will check the basic stuff- headlights, tailights, turn signals, tires, etc. Other than waiting in line forever I can't see you having any problems getting tags for your car.

Geno