Is wrapping legal?

Wrapping law: what you need to know before taking the plunge

Looking to protect your bodywork from scratches and personalize your car's look? The wrapping is a great way to stand out from the crowd while preserving the original paintwork.

But before you get started, a question often comes up: what does the law say about wrapping ? 🤔

Don't panic, in this article I tell you everything you need to know about the law and wrapping !

What does the law say about wrapping and vehicle registration?

In France, wrapping your vehicle is authorized as long as the original body color remains visible on at least part of the vehicle.

Wondering whether you need to redo your vehicle registration?

By law, if your wrapping changes the dominant color of your car (for example, a white car transformed entirely into matte black), an update of the registration document is mandatory.

💡 This is done directly on theANTS website in the "Change of technical characteristics" section.

Beware of the risks if you forget! Driving without having updated your vehicle registration document after a color change is punishable by a fixed fine of €135, and a possible refusal at the next roadworthiness test. To avoid problems, take the necessary steps and drive with peace of mind!

What does the law say about wrapping and insurance?

When it comes to insurance, the law requires transparency. Have you changed the color of your vehicle? Then tell your insurer! Even if the wrapping has no direct impact on the vehicle's mechanics, your policy must reflect these aesthetic changes.

💡 The process is simple:

Contact your insurer by e-mail or telephone;
Provide a before-and-after photo;
He will update your file to avoid any disputes in the event of an accident.

That way, your cover stays 100% in tune with your restyled car!

What does the law say about wrapping and technical inspection?

Good news 😄: wrapping is perfectly compatible with roadworthiness testing, on one condition: the vehicle must be easily identifiable thanks to clearly visible chassis numbers and license plates.

In plain English:

You can pass the CT without any worries as long as the wrapping is well applied;
You risk a counter-inspection if your wrapping conceals essential elements (e.g. number plates or identification plates).

What does the law say about wrapping and vehicle resale?

Thinking of reselling your car after customizing it? Here are the best practices to remember:

Inform the future buyer that the vehicle has been wrapping (in a different color);
Provide proof of the type of film used, and whether it was professionally or personally installed.
Ensure that the wrapping has not caused any damage to the original paintwork.

That way, your buyer will feel confident, and your wrapping will be a real asset when it comes to resale!

The benefits of wrapping

If wrapping seems a little complex, don't forget that the advantages are numerous:

Protects original bodywork from gravel and sunlight;
Fully customize your car to your taste, while offering an excellent alternative to paintwork;
Easy resale thanks to intact bodywork under the film;
Reversible installation: change your mind? It's easy to remove.

And the best part? You can install it yourself thanks to our pre-cut kits available on Variance Auto.

In short, wrapping is totally legal as long as you follow a few simple rules: inform your insurer, update the vehicle registration document if the dominant color changes, and take care with the installation.

It's a great way to protect your car and give it style, all at a lower cost.

Need a hand or advice on your wrapping ? Don't hesitate to contact our customer service department with any questions you may have.

We're here to help you with your car project.