Do new cars require annual inspection? After how many years is it required once a year?
3 Answers
For new cars, inspection is required once every 2 years within the first 6 years, without the need for on-site testing; after 6 years, inspection is required once every year. Additional information: According to Article 16 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China", motor vehicles shall undergo safety technical inspections according to the following periods from the date of registration: 1. Commercial passenger vehicles: inspection once every year within 5 years; after 5 years, inspection once every 6 months. 2. Trucks and large or medium-sized non-commercial passenger vehicles: inspection once every year within 10 years; after 10 years, inspection once every 6 months. 3. Small and mini non-commercial passenger vehicles: inspection once every 2 years within 6 years; after 6 years, inspection once every year; after 15 years, inspection once every 6 months.
When I first bought my new car, I also asked similar questions. For the first 6 years, new cars don’t need to undergo an on-site inspection, meaning you don’t have to go to the inspection station every year for a vehicle check, but you must apply for an inspection decal from the traffic police every two years, which can also be done online. From the 7th to the 10th year, the car needs to undergo an on-site inspection every two years, mainly checking if there are any issues with the brakes, lights, etc. For cars older than 10 years, they truly enter the annual inspection phase. Remember, even with a new car, don’t think you can neglect it entirely—regular maintenance is still necessary, and minor issues like tires and engine oil can easily be overlooked. I once didn’t pay attention to tire wear and had some trouble when applying for the decal. Overall, annual inspections are for safety, especially if you frequently drive on highways—it’s best to check in advance to avoid last-minute problems.
From my experience, there's no need to worry about immediate annual inspection for a brand-new car. The first 6 years are exempt from on-site testing, but you must obtain the annual inspection sticker every two years through an app or in person. After 6 years, it enters a biennial inspection phase, meaning inspections are required at the 7th, 9th, and similar milestones to check the vehicle's condition. The true annual inspection starts from the 11th year. I think this rule is great—it saves time and money for beginners, but don't get complacent; routine maintenance must be kept up. For example, wiper blades wear out quickly, and not replacing them promptly can be dangerous in rainy weather due to poor visibility. During inspections, staff will check if the emission standards are met, which older cars often fail. Safety comes first when driving, so plan your inspection schedule based on your car's age and avoid penalties for expired inspections.
