Today was the day I set aside to deal with the California DMV. All in all, not too bad. Initially, there was more interest in the teardrop itself rather than what was needed to get it registered and licensed. Fairly typical.
Here are some of my observations and experiences:
1. The DMV doesn't inspect for road worthy things like lights, turn signals, etc. They only noted that it was a "camper" trailer and not a "utility" trailer. As it turns out, there isn't much difference other than what is on the registration form. I was advised it was better to register it that way so if ever confronted with a CHP encounter, there would be no descrepacies. They issued me a "VIN" (Vehicle Identification Number) so that I could get it registered and licensed.
2. Lights and such are the domain of the enforcement crowd like local cops and the Highway Patrol. If they note something wrong, they will ticket you on the highway and then you have to get it fixed as well as pay a potential fine. Make sure all lights, turn signals, running lights, etc. are in good working order!
3. I had to provide copies of ALL of my reciepts in order to prove that I had paid sales tax on everything so go prepared. The Govenator wants his piece.
4. Registration was completed and I was given a "Permentent Trailer License" for $20 that comes up for renewal every 5 years. What a deal.
5. Insurance coverage was provided by my car insurance company for an additional $32 per year.
Bottom line is that I am good to go! All I need now is to get my wife back from her overseas trip so that we can get gon'in. I don't know that I will be able to resist not going out on my own ---------- she doesn't return for another month.
Unfortunately, all the CA teardrop gatherings are falling on weekends that I have commitments for or I would probably just show up. Oh, well. Patience is always rewarded I am told.
The new avitar is of my rig in front of the big rock (I did say BIG) at the mouth of Morro Bay in Central California - it's a tough life to live the year around where others come to vacation.