How to Legally Change Your Car's Colour in India?

Changing your car’s colour can be a fun way to personalise your vehicle, but in India, it must be done legally to avoid fines and insurance issues. The Motor Vehicles Act mandates that any change, including colour, must be updated on your Registration Certificate (RC). Informing your insurer is equally essential. Companies like Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company emphasise transparency, ensuring policy coverage isn’t compromised. Whether you opt for a wrap or full repaint, legal compliance helps maintain peace of mind and continuous protection from one of India’s most reliable insurers.

Understanding the Legal Framework for Car Colour Changes

In India, vehicle appearance changes are regulated under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, particularly Rule 47. It states that any modification—including a change in body colour—must be reported to the respective RTO and updated on your RC. Unauthorised modifications may lead to penalties or even vehicle seizure. The new colour must be approved and reflected in the official vehicle records. If you fail to update the authorities, it may also result in the voiding of your insurance policy during claims. It’s always advisable to notify your insurer and the RTO before or immediately after the colour change.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Car's Colour

• Choose a new colour: Make sure it’s a legal, non-reflective shade approved by RTO.
• Get RTO approval (optional pre-check): Some RTOs may allow informal confirmation before repainting.
• Paint or wrap the vehicle: Use an authorised dealer or service centre.
• Visit the RTO: Submit an application for colour change on your RC using Form 33.
• Pay applicable fees: Usually includes an RC update charge.
• Inspection by RTO: The vehicle may be physically inspected for verification.
• Receive updated RC: Your new RC will display the updated colour legally.

Also Read: Does the Colour Of Your Car Affect the Price Of Your Car Insurance?

Required Documents for Car Colour Modification

• Original RC (Registration Certificate)
• Copy of valid insurance policy
• PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificate
• Address proof (Aadhaar card, passport, etc.)
• Form 33 (Application for change of address or other details in RC)
• Colour change bill/invoice from authorised service centre
• Passport-size photographs of the vehicle owner
• Applicable fees and challan receipts

Impact of Colour Change on Car Insurance Policies

Changing the colour of your car directly impacts your car insurance policy, especially during claims. Since insurance policies are linked to the RC, any deviation—such as an unreported colour—may be grounds for rejection.

Insurers, including Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company, require you to update them immediately after modifying your vehicle. This helps maintain policy validity and ensures continued protection. The insurer may also revise your policy document to reflect the new vehicle appearance. A colour change might not increase your premium, but failure to notify could void claims. Always ensure that the insurer has your vehicle's most updated details.

Informing Your Insurer: Why It's Crucial?

After changing your car’s colour, informing your insurer isn't just a courtesy—it’s a necessity. Insurance providers assess claims based on the details in your policy document, which must match your RC. A mismatch, such as an unreported new colour, could lead to the denial of a claim, especially in theft or accident cases.

Promptly updating your insurer helps them amend the policy record, reducing any risk of claim disputes. Providers like Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company, known for their reliable service and 7,200+ cashless garages, ensure smooth updates and continued policy benefits without disruptions.

Car Wrapping vs. Repainting: Legal and Insurance Aspects

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Car Colour Modification

• Failing to update the RC: Leads to legal penalties and invalidation.
• Not informing the insurer: Can result in rejected claims or policy lapse.
• Choosing illegal/reflective colours: Such as military green or chrome, which are often banned.
• Using unauthorised service centres: This can raise issues during RTO inspection.
• Not retaining invoices: Proof of legal modification is crucial for RTO and insurance.
• Skipping physical RTO inspection: Required for official approval and RC update.

Also Read: Car Paint Protection Film (PPF): Importance, Types, and Benefits

Conclusion

Changing your car’s colour may seem cosmetic, but it’s a process that requires legal compliance and proper documentation. From RTO approval to insurer intimation, every step ensures your vehicle remains road-legal and your insurance coverage stays valid. Trusted providers like Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company support transparent disclosures to help policyholders stay protected and claim-ready. Whether wrapping or repainting, always choose legal routes and notify your insurer in time to avoid hassles.

FAQs

Is it legal to change my car's colour in India?

Yes, it's legal, but you must update the change with your local RTO and get it reflected on your Registration Certificate.

What documents are required to change my car's colour?

You need the RC, a valid insurance copy, PUC, Form 33, address proof, colour change invoice, passport-size photos, and applicable fee challans.

How does changing my car's colour affect my insurance policy?

If not informed, it can lead to claim rejections. Insurers assess claims based on accurate vehicle details that match the RC.

Do I need to inform my insurer after changing my car’s colour?

Yes, you must inform your insurer so they can update the policy and avoid complications during claim settlement.

Is car wrapping a legal alternative to repainting in India?

Yes, wrapping is legal but still needs to be reported if it permanently changes the vehicle’s appearance or colour.

What are the penalties for not updating my RC after a colour change?

You may face fines or even legal action, including RC suspension, for non-compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act.