If you're thinking about vinyl wrapping or signwriting your car or van, one common question comes up again and again:
"Do I need to inform the DVLA if I vinyl wrap my vehicle?"
The short answer is:
👉 Sometimes yes – sometimes no!!
It depends on how much of the vehicle's colour changes.
Let's break it down clearly so you know exactly where you stand.
What the DVLA Actually Cares About
The DVLA records your vehicle's primary colour on the V5C logbook.
So the key question is:
Has the main colour of the vehicle changed?
- If the answer is yes, you should update the DVLA.
- If the answer is no, you usually don't need to.
When You DO Need to Inform the DVLA
You must inform the DVLA if your wrap causes a significant colour change, for example:
- A full wrap that changes the vehicle from white → black
- A full wrap from silver → bright company colour
- A colour-change wrap with no original paint visible
In DVLA terms, if more than 50% of the vehicle changes colour, it's considered a colour change.
Why this matters
- Keeps your V5C accurate
- Avoids confusion if the vehicle is checked or involved in an incident
- Helps prevent issues when selling or returning a leased vehicle
When You DON'T Need to Inform the DVLA
In most signwriting and commercial branding jobs, no DVLA update is required.
You usually don't need to inform the DVLA if:
- The vehicle stays the same base colour (e.g. white van stays white)
- You're adding logos, graphics, text, or panels
- It's a partial wrap or cut vinyl signwriting
- Company branding covers less than 50% of the vehicle
This applies to the majority of trade vans and fleet vehicles we brand.
What About Printed Wraps with Graphics?
Good question – this often causes confusion.
If your wrap includes graphics, images, or branding, the DVLA still looks at the dominant background colour, not the artwork.
Example:
- White van
- Printed part-wrap with logos, photos, and colour accents
- White is still clearly the main colour
➡ No DVLA update needed
If the wrap is 100% coverage of the vehicle then the dominant colour within the design will be the new vehicle colour, the design team can advise on what is best to tell the DVLA.
How to Update the DVLA (If You Need To)
If your vehicle does change colour:
- Update your V5C logbook
- Use the DVLA's online service or post the updated section
- The change is usually processed free of charge
It's a simple admin job – but one that needs doing properly.
A Quick Note on Insurance (Important)
Even if the DVLA doesn't need updating, your insurance company usually does.
Why?
- Wraps and signwriting are vehicle modifications
- They affect replacement value
- Some insurers need it noted on the policy
Signwriting does not immediately trigger an increase in insurance costs, some insurers will actually offer discounts if your vehicle is signwritten with clear business details like a name, phone number or website, because they view you as more professional, and therefore a lower risk.
👉 Even if you don't need to update the DVLA, you will usually still need to inform your insurance company after wrapping or signwriting your van.
Our Advice Before You Wrap Your Vehicle
Before any wrap or signwriting goes ahead, we always recommend:
- Ask: Will the base colour change?
- Check if the vehicle is owned, leased, or on finance
- Inform your insurer (even for signwriting)
- Work with a professional installer who understands compliance
At The Sussex Sign Company, we flag these points early so there are no surprises later.
Final Takeaway
Do I need to inform the DVLA if I vinyl wrap my car or van?
- Yes – if the main colour changes
- No – for most signwriting, graphics, and partial wraps
If you're unsure, it's always better to ask before the work starts.