My 19 is 49/50. The dmv will look for the CARB sticker on it when it’s inspected for registration. There are exceptions though.
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/pubs/brochures/fast_facts/ffvr29
Aren't All Vehicles California Certified?
Not all new vehicles are manufactured to be sold in California. Many manufacturers make vehicles to be sold only in the other 49 states. These vehicles (49-state) are made with smog equipment that meets federal emission standards, but not California standards. California-certified (50-state) vehicles are made to be sold in California.
Check the Label
To find out whether a car, truck, or motorcycle is California certified, check the emission label under the hood. For a motorcycle, check the frame or refer to your owner's manual for the location. The label should read that the vehicle conforms to California regulations, or that it is legal for sale in California.
Exemptions
There are a few exemptions to the law. As a California resident, you may be able to register a 49-state vehicle if it was:
- Obtained as part of a divorce, inheritance, or legal separation settlement.
- Purchased to replace your California registered vehicle that was stolen while you were using the vehicle out-of-state.
- Purchased to replace your California registered vehicle that was destroyed or made inoperative beyond reasonable repair while you were using the vehicle out of state.
- An emergency vehicle, pursuant to California Vehicle Code § §27156.2 and 27156.3.
- Registered by you in the state of your last active military service outside California.
- A street motorcycle or motor-driven cycle year model 2005 and older, with an engine less than 50 cubic centimeters (cc) displacement. Beginning January 1, 2006, street motorcycles and motor-driven cycles year model 2006 and newer, with engines less than 50 cc displacement, require an emission label certifying them to meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency emission regulations, and may be registered regardless of mileage.
