TL;DR:
Kuwait has introduced a formal, multi-step procedure for vehicle colour changes, involving mandatory approvals, workshop regulations, and registration updates.- Unauthorized colour modifications can lead to fines of up to KD 500 and legal consequences.
- The rules aim to ensure compliance with international standards and enhance road safety governance.
Motorists in Kuwait planning to change the colour of their vehicles must now follow a clearly defined process set by the authorities, as new rules come into effect to standardize vehicle appearances and tighten traffic control procedures. With fines reaching KD 500 for violations, the Ministry of Interior and related departments have rolled out this regulatory framework to align with international standards and prevent illegal modifications that may impact public safety or law enforcement tracking.
Step-by-step process for legally changing vehicle colour
- Initial Approval at the
Technical Inspection Department
Vehicle owners must first visit the International Standards Section at the Technical Inspection Department to obtain official approval for their desired new colour. During this visit, they are required to sign a formal pledge confirming their commitment to the approved colour change. - Authorized Workshop Colour Modification
Once initial approval is granted, the vehicle owner should take the car to a licensed and authorized workshop that specializes in professional vehicle colour modifications. This ensures the paint change meets the technical and quality standards set by the authorities. - Final Inspection and Registration Update
After the colour has been changed, owners return to the International Standards Section for a final verification of the new colour. The vehicle is inspected to confirm compliance, and once approved, the vehicle’s registration documents are updated to reflect the new colour.
Important compliance and penalties
- Workshops and garages must not perform vehicle colour changes without prior approval from the Traffic Department.
- Unauthorized colour changes are subject to fines up to 500 Kuwaiti Dinars, imposed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
- Violating these rules can also lead to legal consequences under the updated 2025 traffic laws.
Why these rules matter
The government’s enforcement of these procedures aims to:
- Align Kuwait’s vehicle regulations with international safety and documentation standards.
- Prevent illicit modifications that could complicate vehicle identification and legal accountability.
- Promote transparency and organized record-keeping on vehicle details.
What drivers should remember
- Always seek and secure approval before repainting your vehicle.
- Use only authorized workshops for the paint job.
- Complete the final inspection and update your vehicle registration promptly.
- Avoid heavy fines and legal penalties by adhering strictly to these regulations.
This comprehensive system reflects Kuwait’s broader commitment to modernizing road safety and traffic management, supporting motorists and authorities alike in maintaining a well-regulated driving environment.
FAQ
- 1. Do I need official permission to change my car’s colour in Kuwait?
Yes, drivers must first get approval from the Technical Inspection Department’s International Standards Section before repainting their vehicle. - 2. Can I repaint my car at any workshop?
No, the colour change must be done only at authorized and licensed workshops approved by the Traffic Department. - 3. Is there a final inspection after repainting?
Yes, once the colour change is completed, the vehicle must be re-inspected and the registration updated to reflect the new colour. - 4. What are the penalties for changing car colour without approval?
Unauthorized colour changes can lead to fines up to 500 Kuwaiti Dinars and legal consequences under the updated traffic laws. - 5. Can I change my vehicle colour first and seek approval later?
No, you must obtain formal approval before any repainting begins; retroactive permits are not allowed.