Can Vehicle Annual Inspection Be Conducted in Another Location?
2 Answers
Vehicle annual inspection regulations are divided into two parts: exemption scope and inspection cycle. Below are the specific details of the vehicle annual inspection regulations: Exemption Scope: The exemption scope for motor vehicles has been expanded from non-operational small and mini passenger vehicles with 6 seats or fewer within 6 years to those with 7-9 seats. This means that after November 20th, non-operational small and mini passenger vehicles with 7-9 seats that are less than 6 years old can enjoy the exemption policy. Inspection Cycle: Exempt vehicles can skip on-site inspections for the first 6 years, only requiring formalities every two years. From 6 to 10 years, an annual inspection is required. The new regulations indicate that the inspection cycle for private vehicles remains unchanged for the first 6 years, while vehicles aged 6-10 years will change from an annual inspection to a biennial inspection. This means exempt vehicles will have a biennial inspection within 10 years, but only the 6th and 8th years require on-site inspections.
I used to encounter this situation frequently - my car was registered in my hometown, but I often worked in other cities and couldn't go back for annual inspection. Later I learned that national policies had changed long ago. Since 2019, the system has been nationwide networked, allowing direct processing of annual inspections in different locations. I've done it several times directly at testing stations in my business trip locations - super convenient. Just bring the vehicle license, ID card, and compulsory traffic insurance certificate - they can check all vehicle information in their system. Costs may vary slightly between locations, but all within reasonable range, like 200-300 RMB to get it done. Off-site annual inspection saves so much trouble, no need to take leave or travel back and forth. Most importantly, the inspection process is just as strict as in my hometown, ensuring road safety. However, I recommend checking the local testing station address and business hours in advance to avoid wasted trips, and also confirm there are no traffic violation records for the vehicle.
