BRTA Color Change Approval Process for Registered Vehicles

BRTA Color Change Approval Process for Registered Vehicles. Changing the color of a registered motor vehicle is a process regulated by the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA). Vehicle owners who wish to modify the color of their car, motorcycle, or any motor vehicle must follow certain procedures and submit specific documents. This guide will explain the step-by-step process, required documents, and important tips for a smooth approval of your vehicle color change.
Why Vehicle Color Change Requires Approval
The color of a registered vehicle is an important part of its official records. Any modification without permission can lead to legal complications. Changing the color can affect vehicle identification, registration details, and taxation records. Therefore, BRTA ensures that all color changes are documented and inspected before final approval.
Following the proper process helps vehicle owners avoid fines and ensures that the Registration Certificate (RC) or Digital Registration Certificate (DRC) is updated correctly.
Process for Changing Vehicle Color
1. Deposit the Modification Fee
The first step is to pay the modification fee related to the color change. This fee is usually deposited at a designated bank, and a receipt is issued. Keep this receipt safely as it will be required during the application process.
2. Prepare an Application Letter
Next, the vehicle owner must prepare a plain paper application. This letter should include:
- Your full name and address
- Vehicle registration number
- Current and desired color of the vehicle
- Valid reasons for the color change
- Mention that you are submitting supporting documents
The application must be signed by the owner and submitted in one copy.
3. Submit Application to BRTA
The application must be submitted to:
- Assistant Director (Engineering) of the ownership transfer branch of your BRTA circle, if available
- If there is no ownership transfer branch, submit it to the Assistant Director (Engineering) and Registration Authority of your respective circle
This step ensures that your request is officially recorded in the BRTA system.
4. Present the Vehicle for Physical Inspection
BRTA requires physical inspection of the vehicle before approving any color change. The Assistant Director (Engineering) will instruct the Motor Vehicle Inspector to check the vehicle.
The inspection confirms:
- The vehicle matches the details in your application
- The color has been changed safely and correctly
- Other vehicle documents, such as the fitness certificate and tax token, are valid and updated
5. Approval and Temporary Acknowledgment Receipt
If the application and inspection are found satisfactory, BRTA will approve the color change. An acknowledgment receipt is issued, which serves as a temporary registration certificate.
The receipt includes:
- Confirmation of color change approval
- Probable date for receiving the new Registration Certificate (RC) or Digital Registration Certificate (DRC)
6. Issuance of New Registration Certificate (RC/DRC)
Once the DRC is prepared, BRTA will notify the vehicle owner via SMS. You can then collect the updated certificate from the BRTA office.
Note: Make sure your fitness certificate and tax token are updated before completing the process, as BRTA will not issue the RC/DRC otherwise.
Required Documents for Color Change
To ensure your application is processed smoothly, prepare the following documents:
- Application letter signed by the owner – 01 copy
- Original Registration Certificate (RC) – If paper certificate, submit home copy too
- BRTA receipt of color change fee deposit
- Photocopy of updated Fitness Certificate – 01 copy
- Photocopy of updated Tax Token – 01 copy
Tip: Keep both originals and copies ready to avoid multiple visits to the BRTA office.
Tips for a Smooth Color Change Process
- Double-check your documents: Missing or incomplete documents can delay approval
- Provide clear reasons: Mentioning valid reasons in your application increases chances of approval
- Be present during inspection: Supervising the inspection ensures any queries are answered immediately
- Keep receipts safely: BRTA may ask for fee receipt at multiple stages
- Follow SMS notifications: BRTA updates you for certificate collection
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting unsigned applications
- Missing the fee receipt or outdated tax/fintess documents
- Not presenting the vehicle for inspection
- Attempting a color change without approval (illegal and penalized)
Conclusion
Changing the color of a registered motor vehicle in Bangladesh requires following a structured procedure from fee payment to BRTA inspection and issuance of a new RC or DRC. By preparing all required documents, submitting a clear application, and attending the physical inspection, vehicle owners can complete the process without hassle. Always ensure your fitness certificate and tax token are updated, and follow BRTA notifications carefully. This simple and correct process keeps your vehicle legally compliant while allowing the color modification you desire.