I live in Calif. and about 10 yrs ago I bought a used Honda CT70 that had not been registered in years. I went the the Automobile club to try to register it but I was told it was out of the system and I would have to have it inspected by the California Hwy Patrol. Called the CHP to make an appointment and they told me that as long as the bike had not been modified, I could take it to the DMV and have it inspected. I went to the DMV and had it inspected, the guy looked it over for about 5 minutes and signed off on it ( it didnt even run and had a dead battery). I went back inside and asked if I was responsible for any back fees, I was told I was not. I payed the sales tax , transfer fee and regular registration fees and that was it. I did have the pink slip for it though and it was 10 yrs ago.
You might find this helpful.
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/?1...dbk/ch3/ch3_17