Is a Car Wrap Legal in India?

Are you aware of these statistics? In India, the car wrapping market is projected to grow from around ₹790 crore in 2024 to nearly ₹3,100 crore by 2030. This growth is due to demand for customisation and vehicle protection.

Car wraps are slowly becoming popular in India. Many car owners want their vehicles to stand out with a matte black look, a glossy shade, or even funky graphics. Wrapping is also in demand because it is easier to reverse compared to a paint job. But before you get your car wrapping done, the question that may come to your mind is: Is a car wrap legal in India?

The answer is not a simple yes or no. Wrapping your car is allowed, but there are rules that you must follow. Otherwise, you could face fines, and in some cases, even insurance claims may get rejected. In this guide, understand what car wrapping is and how a car insurance policy from Bajaj General Insurance can protect your car.

What is a Car Wrap?

A car wrap is a vinyl sheet or coloured film that is applied or added on top of your car’s original paint. It can cover the entire body or just certain parts. Imagine it in this way: When you paint your car, the colour on the car is permanent unless you paint it again. But a car wrap is like a sticker or skin for your car. If you want to change the look of your car, peel off the wrap. In this process, the original car paint is not damaged. It is similar to changing your phone case without purchasing a new phone.

Wraps can be used to change colour for a funky look or to experiment with designs. Some people go for car wraps to protect the original paint from scratches, dust, or sunlight. On commercial vehicles, the sheet is applied for advertising brands.

Is Car Wrapping Legal in India?

Yes, car wrapping is legal in India, but you have to follow a few rules as per the Motor Vehicles Act and the Regional Transport Office (RTO).

1.     Colour change needs RTO approval

The Registration Certificate (RC) of your car lists the vehicle’s colour. If you wrap your car and it is different from what is mentioned in your RC, it is a legal issue and you will be fined. To avoid this, inform the RTO and they will update your RC with the new colour.

2.     Number plates must stay visible

Number plates help in the identification of the car. If you wrap your car and the number plate is invisible, you will land in trouble. So ensure your number plate and chassis number are readable.

3.     No super shiny wraps

Super shiny wraps can bring glare and other car drivers may find it difficult to drive because such wraps reflect bright light. Do not go for such chrome vinyl wraps.

4.     Do not change the structure of your car

A wrap should not change the structure of the car. It is only for the outer look.

Also Read: What is Comprehensive Car Insurance and What Does It Cover?

Pros and Cons of Car Wrap

Car wraps can help you design and revamp your car the way you want. It keeps the original paint protected and if you remove the sheet, the car still looks fresh as it is protected from scratches. So, overall it costs less than a paint job.

However, if you choose a different colour than what is mentioned in your RC, the RTO needs to be informed. Also, if you go for a low-quality wrap, it might feel off badly and damage your car’s original paint.

Car Wrap Prices in India

Car wrapping costs depend on the material, finish, and size of the car. The approximate range is as follows:

Prices differ from city to city and also based on who does the job. A professional installation is always safer.

Car Wrapping and Insurance

This is the part many people miss. A wrap itself does not affect your car insurance premium but you must inform your insurance company. If your car colour is different from what is mentioned in the RC, and you did not get it corrected, you may face problems during the filing of claims.

A comprehensive car insurance policy from Bajaj General Insurance will protect your car against accidents, theft, fire, and natural disasters. You can purchase the policy online with minimal documents and get access to 7,200+ cashless garages across India.

Also Read: What is Car Insurance & How It Works?

Final Word

Car wrapping in India is legal, but only if you abide by the rules. A wrap is a great way to give your car a fresh look while protecting its paint, but do not skip updating your insurer and keep them in the loop. Additionally, inform the RTO and do not opt for misleading designs like police or ambulance lookalike wraps. Also, get good-quality wraps from a good professional installer, as cheap material will damage the original paint of your car.

For a comprehensive car insurance policy, go for a trusted provider like Bajaj General Insurance so that you can enjoy your stylish car without worrying about fines or claim issues.

FAQs

1. Is car wrapping legal in India?

Yes, car wrapping is legal in India if you follow the rules like informing the RTO about colour changes, not going for super shiny wraps, not covering the number plate, etc.

2. Do I need to inform my insurance company?

Yes. You must inform your insurer so that there are no issues in case you need to file a claim.

3. How much does a car wrap cost in India?

Car wraps may cost around ₹20,000 and can go beyond ₹1,50,000 for premium finishes.

4. Will wrapping damage my car paint?

No, if wrapping is done and removed by professionals, it will not damage the car paint but on the contrary, it protects the paint.

5. Are chrome wraps allowed in India?

Chrome wraps are highly reflective and may cause glare. Such super shiny wraps are not allowed in India, usually.

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***Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.

****Disclaimer: Vehicle specifications, features, and pricing may vary, and it is essential for readers to verify the latest information from authorised dealerships, manufacturers, or reliable sources before making any purchasing decisions.