[Randy Rosenberg]

Chuck, I think you are going to be just fine...

Years ago, right after Morgester informed me that my vehicle was illegally titled, I took the title to my "1965 Ford" to the local DMV to have it changed to a "2001 SPCN". I gave the clerk the title, and said, "My vehicle is a 2001 SPCN, not a 1965 Ford. Can you please help me change it?". She entered the data into her compooper, printed for me a receipt, handed me a TOP, acquired an SB100 Sequence Number, and handed me a VIN verification form. I visited the CHP, who signed my VIN verification, and after I received my Certificate of Sequence a few weeks later, I then made an appointment with local BAR ref to get my Smog Exempt sticker. After getting the sticker, I gathered my paperwork and went back to the DMV, who took all my paperwork, printed for me another receipt and gave me another TOP. A few weeks later I received a new title in the mail. (I don't recall exactly when I received the new reg and plate stickers, but either way, it all worked out).

You should have a very similar experience, eventho you went to the DMV & CHP before acquiring an SB100 number. The key to remember is that one can title a SPCN without an SB100 number - tho these two processes CAN go hand-in-hand, they are really separate processes. The issue is that the DMV requires your vehicle to be smog compliant, and it is the BAR ref who will determine that. Having an SB100 number gives you the option of which smog requirements to meet when at the BAR (most with an SB100 number, choose year of body style, which is the real value of an SB100 number). So, when you leave the BAR, you must be smog compliant before the DMV will finalize the title process.

WRT your question about "inspection", the DMV may or may not require you to acquire a Brake & Lamp inspection. This is easy, since the requirements are so minimal and your SPF ought to pass. Honestly, if your brakes are bad (excessively worrn) that you should change them regardless. Other than that, they only check your headlights, brake and parking lights, and turn signals. That's it. No big deal. It will cost you about $90 ($45 for each inspection).

Hope this helps.

Regards,
Randy...