
Under the condition that the vehicle's green book is mortgaged, color change is not permitted. Only after the mortgage loan is fully repaid can the color change registration be filed. The following documents must be submitted when applying for a change in the vehicle's body color: The 'Motor Vehicle Change Registration Application Form.' Original and photocopy of the identity proof of the vehicle owner and agent. Original vehicle registration certificate. Original vehicle license. All fines prior to the color change must be paid. If the color change area of the vehicle does not exceed 30%, there is no need to apply for a change registration. Conversely, if it exceeds 30%, it must be filed and registered within 10 days after the vehicle is repainted. Notes on vehicle repainting: Before repainting the vehicle, it is necessary to consult with the vehicle management office where the vehicle is registered to confirm whether the local area allows the use of film wrapping to change the vehicle's color. If the area does not support this method, the filing procedure cannot be processed after the color change, and the film must be completely removed to restore the vehicle's original color. Additionally, according to Article 10 of 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's color, install body kits, replace the engine, etc., and then apply to the vehicle management office for a change registration. According to Article 10, if a registered motor vehicle falls under any of the following circumstances, the owner must apply to the local vehicle management office for a change registration: Change of body color. Replacement of the engine. Replacement of the body or frame. Replacement of the entire vehicle due to quality issues. Change of use nature, such as converting a commercial vehicle to a non-commercial vehicle or vice versa. The 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 be painted with designated patterns and equipped with alarms and signal lights as required. Other motor vehicles are prohibited from painting, installing, or using patterns, alarms, or signal lights that are specific to or resemble those of the aforementioned vehicles.

Changing the color of a mortgaged car isn't something you can do casually. If the car still has an outstanding loan, the bank has the final say. I first called the loan company to confirm if color modification was allowed—they required a signed consent form or email approval. Then, I went to a professional shop to get the color changed, either through repainting or wrapping, making sure to take clear before-and-after photos. Afterward, I rushed to the DMV with the vehicle license, the green registration book, original ID, car insurance proof, and the photos to fill out the form for modification registration. The staff inspected the car, took photos, and issued a new vehicle license. The whole process took a day or two, plus a small fee for the paperwork. Skipping this step could lead to penalties—police might fine you or impound the car if the license doesn't match, and the bank could demand early repayment or blacklist you for unauthorized changes. My advice? Don’t cut corners. Follow the steps properly to stay safe and avoid trouble. Once the color's changed, you can drive with peace of mind.

I bought this car on installment, and just last month I gave it a fresh new look with a color change wrap. The paperwork was simpler than expected: first, I contacted the financing company, sent an email application, and received the approval letter in two days. The day after the wrap was done, I went to the DMV with my vehicle license, registration booklet, ID card, and before-and-after photos of the color change. After queuing for an inspection and updating the information, I got the new certificate on the spot. The whole process took half a day and cost just a few dozen bucks. I recommend using the DMV app to book an appointment—it saves time. Communication is key—don’t forget to check with your loan provider. Changing the color without permission might breach the contract, and you could face fines or even a hit to your credit score, which would be a huge loss. Since the color change, I feel more confident driving, but don’t forget the basics—make sure all your documents are in order to stay legal on the road.

With years of experience as a car owner, changing the color of a mortgaged vehicle must follow the rules. If the car loan isn't fully paid, ownership belongs to the bank. Contact them for written permission before making changes, and update the registration at the vehicle management office immediately afterward. Prepare all necessary documents: vehicle license, green book, ID card, and photos. Just get the car inspected and obtain a new certificate. The process isn't complicated, but don't delay too long to avoid points deduction or fines. Mortgage agreements often restrict modifications, so skipping steps is risky. I recommend making an early appointment with the vehicle management office to reduce waiting time.
