Can I get an annual inspection without a vehicle license?
2 Answers
No, you cannot get an annual inspection without a vehicle license. The required documents for an annual inspection include: the original copy of the compulsory traffic accident liability insurance certificate (duplicate); the safety technical inspection certificate (provided by the vehicle inspection station); the original vehicle license; the tax payment certificate for vehicle and vessel use tax; and the original ID card of the vehicle owner (if a proxy is handling the process, the proxy's ID card is also required). The procedure for annual inspection: First, after submitting the inspection application, the vehicle must undergo an online inspection. The vehicle is driven into the automatic inspection area, where emissions, speed, lights, side slip, and chassis are tested to ensure they meet the standards. Only if all items pass can the vehicle proceed. Next is the appearance inspection, which verifies the vehicle's license plate, type, body color, engine number, VIN code, and frame number. Then, the body appearance is checked, including details such as the bumper, engine compartment, rearview mirrors, lower mirrors, window glass, paint, engine operation status, and the interior of passenger vehicles and wheels. Finally, the vehicle owner can obtain the inspection report and application form from the inspector. If all inspection items pass, the owner can proceed to pay the inspection fee and collect the vehicle license and compliance label. If any items fail, the owner must repair the vehicle and undergo a re-inspection until all items pass before proceeding with the visa process. Notes for annual inspection: During the annual inspection, the vehicle management office will check the vehicle's lights. If the lights are found to be too dim or too bright, the vehicle will be deemed unqualified and will not pass the annual inspection. If the lights are too dim, check the wiring and bulbs for aging and replace the relevant parts if necessary. If xenon headlights have been installed, it is recommended to restore the original headlights before the annual inspection to pass the test.
I've been driving for over a decade and am very familiar with the annual vehicle inspection process. You definitely can't proceed without the vehicle license. During the inspection, staff must verify the vehicle information, and that small card serves as proof of ownership. Whether you forgot to bring it or lost it, you won't pass. The reason is simple: the annual inspection requires registration of the vehicle model, license plate, and owner details, all of which are on the vehicle license. If the document is lost, I recommend going to the local DMV to get a replacement immediately. Bring a copy of your ID and the vehicle registration form, and you can usually get a new one in a day or two. Delaying the annual inspection for too long may result in fines if your car is checked on the road, which is a significant risk. I usually keep important documents in a fixed folder to avoid misplacing them. In short, there's no way to pass the annual inspection without the vehicle license—handling the document issue comes first.