What Is Considered a Classic Car in California? (2024)

FAQs

What Is Considered a Classic Car in California? ›

Though the exact definition of “classic car” differs by state, the Car Club of America classifies this type of vehicle as a “fine” or “distinctive” automobile assembled between 1915 and 1948. California describes a “classic car” as a vehicle that is at least 25 years old.

A car is considered a classic in California if it's at least 25 years old and is of historic interest.

Classic cars are at least 20 years old but not older than 45 years, while vintage cars are 25 years or older. Antique cars are even older, at least 45 years old. Keep these classifications in mind, as it can get even more confusing when searching for cars online.

The vehicle is at least 25 model-years old with historical vehicle license plates. (Vehicle Code section 5004)

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.

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.) Diesel-powered vehicle is a 1997 and older year model OR with a Gross Vehicle Weight of more than 14,000 pounds.

Gasoline-powered vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and alternative-fuel vehicles that are model-year 1975 and older. Gasoline-powered vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and alternative-fuel vehicles that are eight model years and newer do not require a biennial Smog Check.

A classic automobile, according to the Classic Car Club of America, is one that was built between 1915 and 1948. For registration purposes, however, many states consider such cars to be antique or vintage vehicles. In most cases, a classic car has to be at least 20 years old to qualify for insurance and registration.

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.

Can you drive around with historic tags? ›

Historic vehicles are subject to limitations. You usually can't drive a collector's car on public roads like a regular one, but you can lower your ownership costs and still bring your vehicle to car shows and special events. As the vehicle owner, you must comply with your state's traffic laws.

Headlights, Tail Lights, Stop Lights & Turn Signals: Every vehicle must have headlights, tail lights, stop lights, and turn signals that comply with federal laws. Original lighting equipment and replacement parts must meet these standards.

Usually, the classic car moniker applies to vehicles over 20 years old. Antique cars are over 45 years old, and vintage cars are built between 1919 and 1930.

So when does a car become a classic car? According to the Classic Car Club of America (CCCA), what qualifies a car as classic is “a fine or unusual motor car built between 1915 and 1948”.

You can register it as a Classic, which is for cars 25 years old or older for $40 per year with no driving restrictions.

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.

Highway Safety Act of 1966

In California, vehicles were required to have seat belts for all seating positions as early as January 1, 1964. Under the California Vehicle Code, vehicles older than this date are typically not required to have safety equipment installed in the vehicle. See Cal.

Owners of model year 1996 or newer vehicles may receive up to $1,200 in emissions-related repairs. Owners of model year 1976 through 1995 vehicles may receive up to $900 in emissions-related repairs.