How to Legally Change Your Car Color in Dubai (2026 Step-by-Step)

Don’t Get Fined for Your New Look

So, you’ve decided to go for a Satin Black Colour PPF or a Miami Blue wrap. It’s going to look incredible. But before we lay a single inch of film on your car, there is one crucial step you cannot skip: The Paperwork.

In Dubai, changing your vehicle’s color without permission is illegal. If you drive a car that doesn’t match its registration card (Mulkiya), you risk fines, impoundment, and failing your next annual inspection.

The good news? The process is now 100% digital and takes less than 15 minutes to initiate. Here is the exact 2026 procedure to make your color change legal.

 

Step 1: Get the NOC from Dubai Police (CID)

Before you visit our workshop, you need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the CID. You no longer need to visit a police station for this; you can do it from your sofa.

The “Dubai Police App” Method:

  1. Download/Open the Dubai Police App.
  2. Go to: Services > Traffic Services > “Vehicle Color Change Certificate.”
  3. Upload Photos: You will need to take clear photos of your car in its current color. The app requires 4 angles: Front, Rear, Left Side, and Right Side.
  4. Select New Color: Choose your desired new color from the dropdown menu. (Note: If you are doing a two-tone design, you can select primary and secondary colors).
  5. Pay the Fee: The standard fee for the NOC is approx AED 120 (AED 100 service fee + AED 20 innovation/knowledge fees).

Timeline: You will typically receive the NOC via SMS/Email within 15 minutes to 24 hours. This certificate is valid for 30 days—so book your appointment with us immediately after receiving it!

 

Step 2: Install Your Colour PPF or Wrap

Once you have the digital NOC in hand, bring your car to Auto Glow.

  • We will verify the NOC matches the color you’ve chosen.
  • We perform the installation (which usually takes 3-5 days for a high-quality full transformation).
  • Important: We cannot release the car to you until the work is done, but you cannot legally drive it on public roads with the new color until Step 3 is complete. However, since you have the NOC, you are covered for the drive directly from our shop to the RTA testing center.

 

Step 3: The RTA Inspection

After you pick up your newly styled car, drive straight to an RTA testing center (like Tasjeel or Al Mutakamela). You are there for a specific service: “Vehicle Technical Inspection – Color Change.”

  • What they check: This is primarily a visual inspection to ensure the new color matches the CID permit you obtained. They won’t necessarily re-test your brakes/engine unless your annual registration happens to be due at the same time.
  • The Inspection Fee: Expect to pay approximately AED 150-170 for the inspection service.

 

Step 4: Update Your Mulkiya

Once the inspector passes your vehicle, head to the counter (or use the RTA kiosk/App) to update your registration card.

  • If your registration is NOT due for renewal: You will pay a fee (approx AED 170) to amend the data and print a new card.
  • If your registration IS due: You simply pay the standard renewal fees (approx AED 380 + insurance), and the new card will automatically reflect the new color.

Total Estimated Government Fees: approx AED 400 – AED 500 (excluding fines/insurance).

 

Related Article :

  • Does Car Insurance Cover PPF in Dubai?
  • Colour PPF : How to Change Your Car’s Color Without Losing Protection

 

FAQs 

Q1: Is it legal to change car color in Dubai?
Yes, but only after getting approval from Dubai Police and passing an RTA inspection.

Q2: How much does it cost to change car color legally in Dubai?
Government fees typically range between AED 400–500, excluding wrap or PPF costs.

Q3: Can I drive my car after changing color without updating Mulkiya?
No. Driving without updating the registration card can result in fines or impoundment.

Q4: How long does the Dubai Police NOC take?
Most approvals arrive within 15 minutes to 24 hours and remain valid for 30 days.

 

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