Drivers who have altered the exterior appearance of their vehicles are being urged to act quickly or risk penalties once a tougher rule comes into force at the start of 2026.
State officials say motorists who fail to update their registration after changing a vehicle’s color could face legal consequences, particularly if the vehicle later becomes connected to criminal activity.
BMV Issues Warning Ahead of January 1, 2026
The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is reminding residents that the vehicle color listed in state records must accurately reflect what is actually on the road.
This alert comes ahead of a new law that officially takes effect on January 1, 2026. The legislation was signed earlier in 2025 by Mike Braun and updates long-standing vehicle registration requirements.
What the New Law Requires
The rule change is part of Senate Enrolled Act 331, which revises how drivers must report exterior modifications to passenger vehicles.
Under the updated requirements, vehicle owners must notify the BMV if:
- The vehicle’s color is changed through repainting
- A partial or full vinyl wrap is installed
- An existing vinyl wrap is removed
Any of these changes must be reported within 30 days of the modification.
Penalties for Failing to Report Changes
If the color change is not reported on time, drivers could receive a warning from law enforcement, according to the BMV.
However, the situation becomes more serious if the vehicle is later tied to a criminal investigation. The BMV has stated that if a vehicle’s color was altered after it was used in the commission of a crime and the change was never reported, the owner could face a Class C misdemeanor charge.
How Drivers Can Update Their Vehicle Color
Indiana drivers have several convenient ways to update their vehicle color information:
- Visit a BMV branch in person
- Use a BMV Connect kiosk, if the vehicle registration is already due for renewal
- Update online by logging into a myBMV account
The BMV recommends completing the update as soon as possible to avoid complications once the new law takes effect.
Other Indiana Laws Taking Effect in 2026
The vehicle color reporting rule is just one of several changes arriving with the new year in Indiana. Additional laws taking effect include:
- The “Smart SNAP” policy, which restricts sugary drinks and candy from being purchased with SNAP benefits
- Expanded consumer data privacy rights
- Tax updates, including a reduced state income tax rate and changes to property tax deductions
Indiana drivers who have repainted or wrapped their vehicles should not wait until the last minute to update their registration. With the new law taking effect on January 1, 2026, ensuring the vehicle color on file matches its actual appearance can prevent warnings, fines, or even misdemeanor charges in serious cases. Taking a few minutes to update records now can help drivers start the new year compliant and stress-free.
FAQs
Do small decals or stickers count as a color change?
No. The rule applies to full or partial repainting and vinyl wraps that change the vehicle’s overall exterior color.
How long do drivers have to report a color change?
Drivers must notify the BMV within 30 days of making the exterior change.
Can I update my vehicle color without going to a BMV office?
Yes. Drivers can update the information online through a myBMV account or at a BMV Connect kiosk during registration renewal.
Source: DanKaminisky
Source Link: https://dankaminsky.com/new-january-law-puts-drivers-at-risk-based-on-car-color/