but if i were to get pulled over or something like that they can't be like whoa you have illegal mods here's a ticket?

 

Just because your home/registered state doesn't have emissions regulations, doesn't mean you don't have to meet any regulation. EPA is regulated at the federal level.
Certain states.... Virginia, California, Colorado...etc, have their own more stringent regulations because they are trying to keep ahead of the curve for smog control.

If you are running Cat-less and they test you in Cali or anywhere and you are violating EPA levels of toxic emissions then you can be fined.

 

The post above me is correct. Also, if you're simply driving or even speeding they won't completely pat down your car for anything unless you give them reason to. Its this way with EVERYTHING in life.