What procedures are required for a car body color change?
2 Answers
To change the color of a car body, the vehicle owner or their agent must submit relevant documents to the local vehicle management office within ten days after the color change to apply for modification registration and have the vehicle inspected. The required documents include: the vehicle owner's identity proof, the original vehicle registration certificate, and the original vehicle license. It is important to note that the new color must not resemble that of special-purpose vehicles, such as ambulances, police cars, or engineering rescue vehicles. Since the color change registration process involves modifying the original vehicle registration records and replacing the original vehicle license, it is equivalent to registering a new vehicle. Therefore, any outstanding traffic fines associated with the old vehicle must be settled before applying for the color change procedure; these fines cannot be carried over to the new registration.
When I changed my car's color before, I went through the specific process. You need to prepare the original ID card, vehicle license, and the green book (registration certificate). First, go to the vehicle management office to fill out the modification application form. Remember to bring vehicle photos or take them on-site. The inspection part is crucial. The staff will check the VIN, inspect the engine condition, look for any illegal modifications, and even verify if the tire size matches the factory specifications. I recommend going in the morning when it's less crowded. After the inspection, pay a 10-yuan fee for the new vehicle license. Remember, you must register the color change within ten days, or you'll face a fine if caught. Avoid using special color schemes like those for police cars. If the color change covers more than one-third of the entire vehicle, it must be reported. It's best to check the local vehicle management office requirements before changing the color, as some places may also require a copy of the compulsory traffic insurance.
