Pink
A pink slip is required or old registration is req'd to tie a old plate to a vehicle to re activate.
However.... if while in the period of in activity someone has decided to use the number of the plate as a personalized number it will not be available.
What has happened to me is, the number and the application gets suspended to Sacramento then 6 weeks to 6 months later, YES I waited 6 months on one application. Then after the wait......... I got a new white plate and a too bad you can't have that number.
Exactly why you should call the 800 number for DMV and opt for the call back option, wait..... then ask if the plate number is available before sending in the application, or going in as someone may be using that plate number, they do not say that but if you apply logic to the often illogical that is all.
You can sometimes get the same info. from AAA by calling and saying I am going to buy this car from someone can you check the status of the registration?" if it is off record you might be in biz, but a call to DMV is most likely the best 1 choice.
I have been at swap meets garage sales on a Sat. afternoon and called AAA to check on a car bike or old plate cause they are not good for much owing back registration, or if the plate number is in use. If in use you have to hang it on the garage wall till it is not. If it owes money and is still in computer BUMMER as Cali. is allegedly not letting vehicles drop off anymore. I know this is a little OT but we all love and seek bargain cars to add to the herd.
That is the only reason why a insurance agent who works for another big 3 company buys a AAA membership.