How would I register a care that's missing all of it's paperwork?

My Uncle gave me his 1967 Ford Custom 500. We've restored it and it's like new. The only issue is putting the car in my name and registering it. It hasn't been registered since 1980 and we have none of the paperwork for it. It's been missing for years. We live in California (if that matters). What do I need to do to register this car?

From a "Search." "Engine."

Replacing a Lost Title in California. How to get a duplicate title with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): Complete an Application for Duplicate Title (Form REG 227). Pay the $20 duplicate title fee. Return the application to the CA DMV by mail or in person. Read on for more lost title details.

http://dmv.org/ca-california/replacing-a-lost-title.php

Germany, where I live, would ask you to bring the car to a technical inspection and registration authority, who will charge something between 200 and 600 euros, and will check road safety issues as well as part numbers, and if all match or seem legit, your car would be called "roadworthy" until the next inspection in two years, and papers will be issued for a minor fee, like, 70 euros or so.

The problem is, buying a car "off the street" doesn't make you the owner, and even spare parts you used may be stolen. So they're really doing a thorough check hereabouts.

Not sure where you are, but talk to the DMV they should be able to help

You wouldn't. You would do nothing. Your uncle, or whomever was named on the paperwork back in 1980 would go about getting the paperwork replaced. After that person, not you, got the paperwork replaced, then that person would have the option to transfer it to you or keep it.

Your uncle has to get a duplicate title and then "sell" it to you as a gift. Then you can get a title and registration on your name.

The true owner (Uncle?) must get a duplicate title for the car. If he can't get a duplicate for some reason, check the California DMV website to see how or if it can be done.