To register an out of state car in CA, you will need at least a VIN verification. The DMV has them, so I would recommend making an appointment once you know you’ll have the car. I’m pretty sure you’ll need a smog check, too. The DMV wants to make sure the car is CA legal.
It sounds like your TX dealer is equipped to do the registration since they charged for it, but will need your help getting the smog and VIN verification.
The dealer could probably ask for sequential legacy plates (a lot of dealers don’t want to go to the trouble). For personalized plates, I’m pretty certain you’ll need the lender’s approval, since they technically own the car.
I missed out on many of them while I was hesitating. I didn’t feel the urge to close on a deal with 2 remaining payments on my current lease. Nonetheless, I got a better deal in TX than SoCal, I know that can sound crazy.
Personalized plates are not a problem on a lease.
I have an Amateur Radio call sign license plate and it has gone on 4 different leased cars in the past 20 years.
You have to pay the DMV for any new personalized plates or if you have your own set, you can transfer them for a nominal transfer plate fee.
My personalized plates cost me zero because they are an FCC (Federal Communications Commission) license.
In case of out of state lease, all the numbers (eg. MF, rebates) will be considered from the state of dealership or from the state where car is going to be registered?
