Do I Need to Display the 2020 Vehicle Inspection Sticker?
4 Answers
2020 Vehicle Inspection Sticker Display Requirements. In March 2020, many cities began piloting the electronic version of the motor vehicle inspection qualification mark, eliminating the need for paper stickers. You can download the electronic certificate online, but this does not mean that the inspection sticker can be omitted in all regions—it simply allows for electronic verification. For vehicles under 6 years old, the inspection sticker must be obtained from the vehicle management office every two years, or it can be applied for online. Vehicles over 6 years old need to obtain the sticker annually after inspection. For older vehicles over 15 years, semi-annual inspections are required to ensure the vehicle meets roadworthiness standards. Vehicle inspection refers to the mandatory testing for all vehicles with official license plates and registration certificates, essentially an annual 'health check' based on the safety technical conditions for motor vehicle operation.
The paper annual inspection sticker is no longer mandatory since 2020! The policy has clearly promoted electronic labels. As an experienced ride-hailing driver, I deeply feel that the windshield looks much cleaner without the sticker. But remember not to tear off the old sticker directly, otherwise the adhesive residue will be particularly troublesome to clean. Now traffic police can directly check the data online – as long as valid annual inspection records are found on the 12123 traffic management app, it’s completely legal. However, it’s recommended to keep a screenshot of the electronic insurance policy on your phone for backup, just in case you encounter a meticulous traffic assistant.
2020 was indeed a transition period for this issue. I suggest you first confirm the time node of your vehicle inspection qualification: if it passed inspection after December 2019, the paper label has been officially abolished by national regulations; however, if you still have the old paper label affixed, don't rush to remove it—keeping it as transitional proof is more prudent. As a new car owner at that time, I specifically inquired at the vehicle management office, and their on-site staff emphasized that as long as the inspection information can be queried on the 12123 platform, showing the mobile phone record during checks is sufficient. Over two years of practice, I've never encountered any issues.
Hey! A veteran driver with 20 years of experience shares some tips: Since 2020, electronic labels have become the norm for vehicles. But I have two suggestions: first, keep the annual inspection receipt in the glove box, and second, regularly check the status of your documents using the traffic management app. After my old car's inspection, the staff specifically reminded me: although electronic labels are convenient, it's best to confirm that the app information syncs properly every month. The other day, I also reminded a new driver in the neighborhood who tore off the old label and ended up with glue residue on the windshield—it took some camphor oil to clean it off.
