Classic vehicles registration (2024)

FAQs

What are the requirements for classic car registration in California? ›

The vehicle must be insured as a collector car and must meet one of the following requirements: The vehicle is at least 35 model-years old. (Health and Safety Code section 44011) The vehicle is at least 25 model-years old with historical vehicle license plates.

If you own a classic car, official certification is the best way to verify its authenticity. Organizations such as the Classic Car Club of America, Bloomington Gold, and the National Corvette Restorers Society have certification programs and judging events specifically for this purpose.

A car is considered a classic in California if it's at least 25 years old, was manufactured after 1922, and is of historic interest. When a vehicle in California meets these requirements, the owner can register it as a historic vehicle, which will allow the car to use special license plates.

Bill amended so pre-1976 vehicles will not be banned from roads. California is continuing its push to clean up its air by trying to block more older vehicles from staying on its roads. But unlike earlier versions, classic cars still will be allowed to cruise the California highways. Sen.

California describes a “classic car” as a vehicle that is at least 25 years old. This distinction is made due to the fact that cars built before 1975 are excused from the California Smog Certification Program.

Classic vehicles might range in age from 10 to 50+ years old, and the term "classic car" may include vintage, antique, and collector vehicles. Ultimately, it depends on the classic car definition used by your state, insurer, or car collecting club — each may have its own age rules.

Most VINs for classic cars can be found in one (or more) of these locations: On the dashboard, near the windshield on the driver's side, and visible from the outside. Inside the driver's side wheel well.

You're at car shows, at vehicle auctions, or online just checking out a cool old car … and you're the one looking on the dashboard for the 17-digit number, or peeking in the engine bay for that car's VIN plate. You want to learn every available detail about that car's production history.

Classic car insurance is usually much cheaper than regular car insurance. According to Baily Insurance Agency, a classic car policy costs around $200 to $600 annually. If you own an abnormally expensive vehicle, your rates may be higher. In contrast, regular car insurance usually costs over $1000 per year.

What kind of insurance do I need for my classic daily driver? You'll need standard auto insurance for your daily driver classic car. That's because specialized classic car insurance typically requires the insured vehicle to not be driven daily.

Is a 2001 car a classic? ›

For insurance and registration purposes, the age of a classic car, in most cases, is at least 20 years old but not more than 40 years old. If you are going to register it (and insure it) as a classic, it should have been kept to its original design and specifications.

Want a classic car? Consider that a classic 1965 Mustang can be found for around $20,000, and many other collector cars are available in the $20,000 to $30,000 range. Research current buyer's guides - many of which you can find online - to ensure you know the going rates.

Repairs & Restoration

So, the most effective way to increase the value of your classic car is to restore the vehicle and repair broken or rusted parts and mechanical components.

Key Takeaways. For the automotive enthusiast, one way to diversify an investment portfolio is to start collecting classic cars. Most cars lose value immediately after they are driven off of the dealer lot, but classic cars gain in value over time, due to rarity, performance, or special attributes.

What vehicles do not require a Smog Check? Gasoline-powered vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and alternative-fuel vehicles that are model-year 1975 and older.

Historical Vehicle License Plates are issued to motor vehicles or trailers that are: Manufactured after 1922. At least 25 years old.

California laws regarding license plates state that all passenger vehicles must include both a front and rear license plate. Both license plates must be clearly visible with no alterations that obscure the state, plate number, or registration and must be securely fastened to prevent the plates from swinging.

Smog inspections are required when you register or renew registration for a vehicle in California, but there are some exceptions. Your vehicle does not need a smog inspection if your: Gasoline-powered vehicle is a 1975 year model or older (This includes motorcycles and trailers.)