The first hiccup is the DMV said there’s no record of it being totaled so there’s nothing to do. The insurance company said they only report if they keep the car. Since I’m keeping it, I have to drive the process. It wasn’t a wasted trip since I got the scoop on what exactly I need, which is something I couldn’t find plainly enough stated for this simple brain.

The stack I’m taking to the DMV includes:

Form 488C application for salvage certificate
Form 343 application for title or registration
Form 256 statement of facts (that it’s my car to begin with, have title, no need for notary)
Form CL-30 total loss statement from insurance company
Estimate of record from insurance company (insurance says DMV will ask for this)
Smog certificate ($45 but it was due for coincidental renewal anyway)
Brake and light certificates ($100 like Jorn said!)
Title
Plates

CHP said certain cars have to be inspected by them but such isn’t the case with this car.

I’ll update the rest of the process and fees after the DMV inspection in a few days.

Sixto
98 E320s sedan and wagon
02 C320 wagon