Do I need to go to the DMV for vehicle inspection?
2 Answers
Vehicle inspection requires visits to both the DMV and the inspection station. Normally, the vehicle is first inspected at the inspection station, and then the DMV stamps the paperwork. Inspection schedule: For passenger cars and blue-license-plate minivans, new vehicles require inspection every two years for the first six years after registration; after six years, inspection is required annually; after ten years, inspection is required once a year, and after fifteen years, twice a year. For trucks, inspection is required annually after registration, and after ten years, twice a year. Inspection regulations: If a vehicle is found by traffic police on the road without an annual inspection, the owner may be fined or the vehicle impounded. Additionally, in insurance contracts, vehicles that have not undergone timely inspection are considered unqualified, and no claims will be paid in the event of an accident.
I just completed my vehicle annual inspection and want to share some insights. The inspection isn't done directly at the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) – that office handles license plates or registration matters. For annual inspections, you need to go to designated vehicle inspection stations. These stations specialize in checking lights, brakes, emissions, and other items. After completion, they automatically submit the report to the DMV system. I went to a large inspection station near my home, bringing just my vehicle license, compulsory traffic insurance policy, and ID card. The entire process took about an hour, with costs typically ranging from 200 to 400 RMB depending on the vehicle type. Booking through their app in advance can save queuing time. If your vehicle passes inspection, you'll be cleared immediately, and the annual inspection sticker will be mailed to your home. Some people mistakenly think everything can be done at the DMV in one stop, but these are actually separate procedures – don't make a wasted trip. Finding an authoritative local inspection station is most reliable, and their addresses can be found via navigation apps. The annual inspection is crucial for ensuring roadworthiness and should be done every year.
