Bengaluru RTO Warns Motorists Against Unauthorised Vehicle Modifications

Transport authorities in Bengaluru have warned motorists that unauthorised vehicle modifications, colour changes without prior approval, and illegal emblems violate traffic laws and can lead to penalties or vehicle impoundment.

According to the Regional Transport Office (RTO) enforcement department, vehicles purchased from showrooms comply with prescribed motor vehicle regulations, and any subsequent structural or visual changes must receive official clearance. Modifications that alter approved specifications, obstruct driver visibility, hide identification details, or compromise road safety are strictly prohibited under the Motor Vehicles Act.

Omkarshwari, Joint Commissioner of the RTO Enforcement Department, stated that while removable aesthetic additions such as decals, stickers, and wraps generally do not require permission if they do not compromise safety, full paint colour changes must be formally reported through an application to the RTO. Certain shades, such as army green, remain completely restricted for civilian vehicles due to their association with the armed forces.

Officials noted that unauthorised vehicle customisations in Bengaluru are frequently found among out-of-state vehicle owners and students who may not be fully aware of the state's transport regulations. Prohibited alterations such as tinted glass, non-compliant fancy fonts on registration plates, and stickers displaying political or caste affiliations violate High Security Registration Plate (HSRP) rules.

The RTO also highlighted the ongoing misuse of official designations and symbols on private vehicles. In line with Karnataka High Court directives, motorists are strictly barred from displaying government emblems, departmental logos, flags, or designations such as "Police", "Army", "Press", "MLA", or "Judge" to claim official privilege or evade traffic checks.

Enforcement officials added that surveillance is being extended to aftermarket modification workshops and accessory outlets across the city, cautioning motorists that the commercial availability of custom accessories does not make their installation legal.