
If the area of the car wrap color change exceeds 30%, it is necessary to promptly register the change at the vehicle management office. If it does not exceed 30%, registration is not required. According to Article 6 of Chapter 2 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law," if the color change area of a motor vehicle does not exceed 30%, no change registration is required. Conversely, if it exceeds 30%, registration is necessary, and the traffic management department has clear regulations on the registration deadline. The owner must register within 10 days after the color change. Precautions for changing the color of a vehicle wrap: Before preparing to change the color of a motor vehicle wrap, it is necessary to consult the vehicle management office where the vehicle is registered to confirm whether the region allows changing the vehicle color using a wrap. If the region does not support this method, registration cannot be processed after the color change, and the wrap must be completely removed to restore the vehicle's original color. If the vehicle has any outstanding violations, they must be resolved before processing the registration, and the body color cannot exceed three types. Documents required for applying to change the body color of a motor vehicle: "Motor Vehicle Change Registration Application Form." Proof of identity and copies for the motor vehicle owner and agent. Motor vehicle registration certificate. Motor vehicle driving license. Payment of all outstanding fines. Additionally, according to the "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations," owners are no longer required to apply to the vehicle management office in advance. They can first change the vehicle color, install body kits, replace the engine, etc., and then apply for change registration with the vehicle management office. According to Article 10, registered motor vehicles must apply for change registration under the following circumstances: Change of body color. Replacement of the engine. Replacement of the body or frame. Whole vehicle replacement due to quality issues. Change of use nature, such as converting a commercial vehicle to a non-commercial vehicle or vice versa. The motor vehicle owner's residence moves out of or into the jurisdiction of the vehicle management office. Furthermore, according to Article 15 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": Police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, and engineering rescue vehicles must display emblem patterns, install alarms, and indicator lights as required. Other motor vehicles are prohibited from displaying, installing, or using emblem patterns, alarms, or indicator lights specifically for the aforementioned vehicles or similar ones. Article 56 of the "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations" states that if the body color is changed without following the required change registration procedures, the public security traffic management department may issue a warning or impose a fine. The vehicle may also be impounded and required to revert to its original color.

I previously applied a color-changing film to my car and dutifully went to the DMV for registration. The whole process wasn’t as complicated as I imagined: after applying the film, I had to queue at the DMV within 10 days, bringing essentials like my ID, vehicle license, and registration certificate. The staff would inspect the car and take photos on-site to confirm the color meets standards—avoid overly dark or police-car-like colors to prevent rejection. The cost was just around a hundred bucks, and it took only twenty minutes. Skipping registration is not an option—if caught by traffic police, a fine of a few hundred is the least of your worries, as insurance claims might also be disputed or denied. So, it’s best to choose compliant film materials beforehand to avoid issues like bubbling or fading, saving you the hassle of redoing it. Overall, registration is a crucial step to keep your car both stylish and legal—don’t slack off or delay it.

I considered wrapping my car for a color change, and initially, I was a bit concerned about the registration process. After researching, I found that this modification can indeed be registered, and it must be done within 10 days after the color change. You need to personally visit the vehicle management office, bringing along your ID card, vehicle license, registration certificate, and other necessary documents. I specifically asked a friend, and he mentioned that the color shouldn't be too flashy or too dull, as it might get stuck during approval. The cost is quite affordable, ranging from tens to a hundred yuan, but don't expect to handle it online—you'll need to take photos on-site. After registration, the new vehicle license will be updated, making driving much more reassuring. Not registering poses significant risks, such as failing the annual inspection or being pulled over on the road, with fines being even more troublesome. It's essential to choose a reputable shop for the wrap to ensure quality and avoid future issues.

Color-changing film wrapping definitely requires registration, which is a strict regulation. The DMV has a specific process for this, requiring application within 10 days with simple documentation. Changing color without updating the certificate will cause vehicle information discrepancies, and traffic police will impose fines if discovered. Therefore, don't hesitate—plan the registration time before proceeding to avoid delays. Legal operation ensures safe driving and also helps with insurance claims.


