Differences in Annual Inspection Between 5-Seater and 7-Seater Vehicles

[EverettFitz]

According to the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China," the differences in annual inspection between 5-seater and 7-seater vehicles are as follows: Inspection Frequency: For 7-seater vehicles, inspections are required every 2 years for the first 6 years, annually from the 7th to the 15th year, and every 6 months after 15 years. 5-seater vehicles enjoy a 6-year exemption policy, and owners can apply for an exemption sticker to avoid on-site inspections. However, the exemption sticker must be renewed every 2 years. Vehicles with expired or missing inspection stickers may face fines, penalty points, or even impoundment by traffic police, leading to unnecessary trouble. Inspection Costs: 5-seater vehicles do not require on-site inspections for the remaining 5 years after their first inspection. 7-seater vehicles will undergo 2 additional inspections and incur extra costs compared to 5-seater vehicles. Exemption Period: Only vehicles registered after September 1, 2010, are eligible for the exemption policy. Vehicles registered between September 1, 2010, and September 1, 2018, qualify for one exemption, while those registered between September 1, 2018, and September 1, 2018, qualify for two exemptions. Vehicles registered before August 31, 2010, are still subject to annual inspections. 7-seater vehicles do not require on-site inspections within the first 6 years, but owners must provide proof of compulsory traffic accident liability insurance and payment or exemption of vehicle and vessel tax. After resolving any traffic violations or accidents, they can directly apply for the inspection sticker from the traffic management department. After 6 years, on-site inspections are required. For 5-seater non-commercial vehicles, a 6-year exemption applies, requiring a stamp from the vehicle management office every 2 years during this period. Additionally, 7-seater vehicles must display a "No Overloading Beyond 7 Passengers" warning. Late inspections may result in a 3-point penalty and a 200 RMB fine. Insurance-wise, accidents involving vehicles with expired inspections will not be covered by insurance. The compulsory insurance for 7-seater vehicles is about 100-200 RMB more expensive than for 5-seater vehicles. Annual vehicle inspections include the following items: checking the engine, chassis, body, and accessories for cleanliness, completeness, and functionality; verifying paint uniformity and appearance; ensuring major components match the initial inspection records; testing braking, steering, lighting, exhaust, and other safety features; and confirming no unauthorized modifications or changes to the vehicle's registration, license plate, or records. The condition of the license plate, registration certificate, and enlarged license plate markings must also be inspected for damage, tampering, or illegibility. Vehicles are also categorized as commercial or non-commercial, with the following differences: Commercial vehicles are used for transporting goods or passengers for profit, involving fee settlements and providing transport services to the public. Non-commercial vehicles are not used for profit. Vehicle Use on Registration: Commercial vehicles are registered as "commercial" and require a transport permit (operating license) and a professional driver's qualification certificate (work permit). Non-commercial vehicles are registered as "non-commercial" and do not require these permits.