This is good advice. The people at CARB, at least the ones I spoke with, are way more knowledgeable and willing to discuss the ins and outs of their regs than the people at the DMV. I would absolutely call CARB and ask politely what the deal is. If you can, get them to email you whatever they tell you over the phone.
Backtrack, but forgot to post this ages ago. These are the last couple of emails I received while speaking with CARB and the modification center.
Regarding requirements and cost -
"Your vehicle requires modification, testing, and certification to meet California Standards. The cost is $9,950.00 and will take approximately 8-12 weeks to complete. Should you decide to pursue the certification of your vehicle, so you can register it in the state of California, please contact us at (714) 545-9503 ext. 219 to schedule the inspection of your vehicle.
Please provide a copy of all documents related to your vehicle such as the foreign title and customs entry forms. Thank you
Sincerely,
N*** G*** "
------------------------------------------
Regarding work performed -
"They add a new emissions control system, emissions dyno tuning, CARB FTP testing, Certificate of conformity, etc…. It’s a process and takes time. Good luck
Sincerely,
N*** G*** "
Dated 2019-01-09
Basically what you'd be looking at to get an old 70 series diesel registered in CA.