[Gunner]

You would get standard-issue plates as soon as the registration is approved, allow six weeks for delivery.

I ordered my vanity plates at the same time I started the CA registration process. They came in in early December but I was unable to pick them up until the final stamp was banged on the registration packet last week. The clerk applied those plates to the vehicle as part of the final process.

I'd suggest you order them about two months before you expect to get your registration.