Does this need to be painted before installation?

No. The fabric panels come ready to mount as-is. If you're installing on a freshly painted bed or custom setup, test-fit first to make sure the mounting hardware clears any new finish.

What hardware do I need to secure it to the bed?

The tonneau cover assembly includes the frame and mounting system. Verify your bed condition and clamp points match standard truck geometry — any bed damage or aftermarket bed liner may require shims or spacers you'd source separately.

Can I fold this cover back while driving?

Yes. The tri-fold design lets you collapse all three panels flat against the cab. Drive at highway speeds with it folded — it's engineered for that. Just make sure panels are fully secured in their rest position before hitting the road.