Yes, you'll need to begin the process before you get in line on January 2nd. I'm not a registration expert, but I think you'll have to retitle your car as an SPCNS. You'll have to pay some fees and then get your VIN assignment from the CHP. The CHP may just use your existing VIN or not. Thus, you'll need to fill out an Application for New Title and a Statement of Construction. Here's a primer:
http://www.dmv.ca.gov/vr/spcnsreg.htm
Research here under SB100 too.