Do you want to know if you have to register your vehicle in New York State?
yea
You might need to register the car under certain situations
what if I do have to register but the title is not in my name? I have a 2008 Honda Accord that was bought used
For a used vehicle purchased from an out-of-state dealer, you will need to provide an out-of-state title certificate or transferrable registration transferred to the dealer, OR the dealer’s bill of sale that transfers ownership to you
so will I need to register if I move to NY full time?
Yes,  you must register your vehicle here within 30 days of becoming a resident
If my car had been purchased new from a New Jersey dealership what would I need as proof of ownership?
You would need the Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin, and the dealer's bill of sale
ok, and what will I need to have with me to register the car?
Before you visit a DMV office to register your vehicle, you should complete the Document Guide to make sure you bring the correct documents with you. The requirements to register an out-of-state vehicle are generally the same as to register and title vehicle in New York.
can you give me a link to the document guide?
Yes, I can link you to the Document Guide
last question I want to ask is if there is a way around the California emission standards?