The only other option is to move to a different state...

Not the most practical answer I know.

There really are no other options if you want to operate it legally here. It has to comply with the standards set for it's particular year. Sucks, but that's the way it is. I'd much rather have my cars 'correct' by California standards (as they are) simply because I live here rather than trying to get around the rules. Much easier and less costly.

I'm with Stephen on this one. You play the cards you're dealt. It's much less stressful and easier to conform to the local rules than it is to attempt to weasel around them.