Is Application Required for Vehicle Light Modifications?

[ChaseRose]

Vehicle light modifications do not require application. The installation of exterior parts should ensure that they do not harm pedestrians during use and do not exceed a certain proportion of the vehicle's dimensions. Replacing the front bumper is acceptable, but modifications such as adding exterior components (e.g., spoilers) or raising the chassis to enhance off-road performance are not permitted. More information about vehicle modifications is as follows: 1. Car tires can only be replaced with original factory tires and rims. It is prohibited to install sports car tires or larger and wider tires that are clearly incompatible with the vehicle body. 2. All parameters of the lights should be strictly adjusted in accordance with relevant national regulations. Adding LED lights or xenon light modifications are not allowed. Xenon lights have an illumination approximately twice that of sunlight, which can cause drivers to reflexively close their eyes at night, potentially leading to tragic accidents.

[LeXavier]

I just changed my car lights, and I specifically checked the regulations on this issue. Any modifications that alter the original lighting parameters of the vehicle must be registered with the vehicle management office. You can't just change them on your own. Last time, my friend bought cool blue lights online, but was caught by traffic police on the road, resulting in points deducted, a fine, and an order to restore the original lights. The regulations require that the brightness of the lights must not exceed 4000 lumens, and the color temperature must be yellow-white. Fancy lights like red, blue, or green are illegal. After modification, remember to bring the qualification certificate of the modification shop and the invoice to the vehicle management office for photos and inspection. The process can be completed in half a day if it goes smoothly. If caught modifying without permission, the biggest hassle is having to go back to the inspection station for a full vehicle test, which costs both money and time. Nowadays, many cities also promote APP appointment applications, which are much more convenient than going to the window.

[MacEliza]

I have personal experience with this! Last year when upgrading my car's headlights to laser ones, the modification shop owner repeatedly reminded me to complete the filing procedures. The key is to confirm three things in advance: the modification plan must comply with the national standard GB4785, avoiding those high-color-temperature dazzling lights; choose a qualified and regular modification shop for the work, as they will provide a qualified inspection report; finally, bring the vehicle license and modification certificate to the DMV for inspection. At the DMV, I saw someone who had replaced LED lights themselves without reporting it, and as a result, their annual inspection was blocked and they were asked to remove them. Even worse, in case of an accident, the insurance refused to pay because private modifications are considered a breach of contract. However, the new regulations have now relaxed the rules. As long as you don't change the position and type of the light source, such as replacing a bulb with the same specifications, you don't need to apply. It is recommended to consult local policies by calling 12345 before modifying the lights.

[MacElijah]

I recommend checking the local DMV website before modifying your car lights. Last week, while helping a family member with this, I discovered new changes: as long as you don't alter the wiring or light assembly structure, replacing ordinary bulbs doesn't require an application. However, adding daytime running lights or changing fog light colors must be registered. When applying, you'll need to bring the vehicle registration certificate and the modification qualification certificate—they mainly check if the light brightness and angle comply with regulations. At the scene, I saw someone who installed strobe lights being ordered to remove them, as those are reserved for special-purpose vehicles. Also, be aware that modifying car lights can void the warranty. My neighbor experienced a short circuit due to modified light wiring, leading to spontaneous combustion, and the manufacturer outright refused the claim. The safest approach is to update the vehicle registration photo at the DMV immediately after modification—don't wait until the annual inspection to make up for it.