[Zeke]

I don't believe you even need a permit if you buy from a PP. If the tags are current, you have as a local buyer 10 days to register the car.

From the CA DMV site: "If you purchase or acquire a vehicle from a private party, you have 10 days from the date of sale to report to DMV the change of ownership. Transfer fees must be paid to DMV within 30 days of the purchase date, even if you do not have all of the required documents. Failure to pay your fees to DMV within 30 days will result in transfer and use tax penalties."

By then, you will be long gone. The seller should record your name and info and turn it in on the form sent out every year. This will avoid any problems the new owner may incur. I think the seller can do this online and I encourage doing it ASAP.