From frissell@panix.com:

Some of the following statements do not (in my recollection) apply to those in California...

The following statements are true:

It is legal to own a car without a driver's license or vehicle registration.

In CA only "junk" cars can be unregistered. An unregistered car on private property can be cited under a long list of circumstances.

It is legal to drive an unregistered car without a driver's license (in some circumstances).

It is never "legal" to drive an unregistered vehicle (or even tow it without a trailer) on CA roads. The judge may let you off if you have "a real good reason". But the cops can and in most cases will cite you!

No permission is required to purchase a car and felons, the mentally ill, children, aliens and those guilty of misdemeanor domestic violence offenses can buy cars and most of the above can drive cars on public streets and

roads. I do believe that there are some legal restrictions for children purchasing cars...

You are not required to report the purchase of a car to anyone.

Since every car in CA MUST be registered, every change of ownership must be reported. If you do not you are subject to a fine. They give you ten days to report the transfer of ownership.

It is legal to drive a car on public streets and roads in the US with a license from any jurisdiction on earth.

Only for a limited period of time in CA...

It is legal to drive a car on public streets and roads in the US that is registered in other states or nations.

Not if the owner is a resident of CA, and again only for a limited period of time.

It is legal to drive a car on public streets and roads in the US that is owned by and registered to any person or legal entity.

Legal entities can own and register cars and permit anyone they like to drive them.

But they assume all the liability and even possible criminal consequences for letting unlicensed persons drive the car.

Note that if we regulated guns like driving, the above would mean that you could buy and use a gun on your own property without licensing, registration or reporting.

NOT in CA...

DCF