If your car is now a different colour, the V5C has to say so. Colour is one of the changes GOV.UK says you must put on your registration certificate, and you do it by filling in the log book and posting it to the DVLA. Tell your insurer at the same time.
Here's how it works, and when you don't need to do anything at all.
Do I have to tell the DVLA if I change my car's colour?
Yes. GOV.UK's page on changing vehicle details on a V5C lists colour among the changes you must put on your V5C. The V5C, or log book, is the DVLA's record of the car, and it should describe the car as it is now.
A full respray in a new colour counts, and so does a custom finish in a different colour. See resprays and custom paint for what each job involves.
Does a same colour respray need a V5C update?
No. If the car goes back in the colour it already wore, nothing on the V5C has changed, so there's nothing to tell the DVLA. The same goes for a panel repaired and blended in its existing colour.
If you've moved to a noticeably different shade and you're not sure it counts as a new colour, ask the DVLA before you post anything.
How do I update the colour on my V5C?
You write the change on the V5C itself and post it to the DVLA. GOV.UK's how to update your V5C page says to fill in section 1 if you have the newer log book, the one with multi-coloured numbered blocks on the front cover, or section 7 if you have the older style.
The same page gives the address to send it to. Take it from there rather than from an old note, and pay the right postage.
GOV.UK's list of what evidence to give covers changes such as the engine, fuel type, chassis and weight. Colour isn't on it. Keep the respray invoice with the car's papers anyway.
How long does the new V5C take to arrive?
GOV.UK says it can take 2 to 4 weeks to get a replacement certificate when you apply by post. The DVLA will contact you to confirm the change.
If it's been 4 weeks and nothing has arrived, contact the DVLA. GOV.UK warns that if you leave it past 6 weeks without telling them, you'll have to pay for a replacement.
When should I send the V5C off?
Once the car is finished in its new colour. GOV.UK's page gives no deadline, so don't leave it sitting in a drawer.
It also matters when you sell. A buyer checking the V5C against the car in front of them will expect the colours to match.
Who updates the V5C, me or the shop?
You do. It's your log book, and the DVLA deals with the keeper named on it, not the shop that painted the car. All you need from us is the new colour, and the paint code if you want it for your records.
Do I need to tell my insurer about a colour change?
Yes. Tell them before the car is back on the road. Your policy describes the car you're insuring, and it's for the insurer to decide whether the change matters to your cover. Ask yours what they need from you.
What if the car is leased or on finance?
Talk to the lease or finance company before any paint goes on. Your agreement will say whether you're allowed to change the colour, and they'll tell you who deals with the V5C.
What about a wrap or a two-tone?
GOV.UK lists colour as the change, and says nothing about how the colour was changed. If your car has been wrapped in a new colour rather than painted, ask the DVLA whether they want to know.
For a two-tone, ask the DVLA how they want the colours described before you fill in the log book.
Does the paint code on the car change?
No. The paint code label, usually in a door shut, under the bonnet or in the boot, still gives the factory colour after a respray. Any repair in the future needs the new mix, not the old one.
So keep the new paint code with the V5C and the invoice, where anyone repairing or buying the car will find it.
Thinking about a new colour? Send us a few photos of the car and the colour you're after from the quote form.
