Am I reading this CA regs right?

YEP! 48' trailer, you're good to go play most anywhere in the state. There are some coastal/mountain highways that will have overall length and off-track restrictions, so just be aware if you venture off the main routes!

 

I had an inspection while in California with a 53 and no one said a word

 

It's generally (but not always) pretty well posted where there are trailer/kingpin setting restrictions. 48' spread axle will be legal in the majority of places in CA but if you plan on getting off the beaten path do your research to make sure you're good. CHP absolutely loves screwing with truckers and they'll nail you if you give them a chance.

 

Where in California are you going?

 

The 40' KP to RA is only for trailers LONGER than 48'. With a 48' you're good to go as long as you stay off certain state highways and away from municipaities that have a 65' OA length limit. Unless you have a short enough truck to get down to 65' OA with a 48' trailer. I do it with 216" WB on my Cascadia, with a 379 or W9 you need to be about 235" or shorter. If you're just going through on the interstate, you'll be fine.

 

Boardhauler is correct. I run Cali and pull from 40's to 53's but mostly 48's and my truck is 265 wheelbase. Long as you run interstate highway you will be fine. State routes are different in the other hand. I was on a state route 2 santa monica blvd one block away from 101. I got pulled over, was measured 71 feet overall. The company I hauled for split the fine, $191.00. Also, the LEO wouldnt except my annual oversize permit. Says I was in los angeles county jurisdiction, not on a interstate. I think I could of fought it But would of lost more money losing work for the day.