One of the biggest hurdles you face is living in California.

Many of the threads SxSMan's linked search contains have discussions about importing in general: MUST be 25 years or older, must have an original (matching on the paperwork) engine, etc.

For into California, there are many additional restrictions imposed by state regulations discussed in other threads in the link.

For the "short answer": your best option is to locate an authentic pre-1975 already registered in California.

Read some of those linked threads and definitely ask more questions here. There are many helpful folks here that are willing to guide someone new to the classic Mini hobby if that person shows good interest and a willingness to listen and learn. We would rather see someone take their time and enjoy the hobby long-term than hear another tale of someone that jumped blindly into something that will aggravate and disappoint them.

First welcome to the forum.

A little info, look above at the large MiniMania banner, below the second M is search, click on check mark, flick on forum.

Type in "importing a uk mini" or something like that.

//www.minimania.com/Search_Results/Importing%20a%20uk%20mini/Forum

Lot's of importing info for you.

SxS

Hello All,

I thought I would tap the wealth of knowledge that seems to exist on this site.   (obligatory compliments and sucking up before the question is asked  ;p ) I currently own a 2004 Mini and rather than buy a new one I am contemplating buying a classic mini from the UK and having it shipped over here. I am living in California. Since it won't be as simple as import - register- drive..... What are some of the issues I need to be aware of when doing this? What would be a reasonable shipping cost to be expected?

Cheers!

Greg