Does a car need an annual inspection in its fourth year?
3 Answers
New cars require an annual inspection within 4 years, and the fourth year falls under regular annual inspection. Below is extended information: Relevant materials: Required documents for vehicle annual inspection (individual): original vehicle license, copy of compulsory traffic insurance, ID card copy, and the vehicle. Required documents for vehicle annual inspection (organization): original vehicle license, copy of compulsory traffic insurance, Organization Code Certificate of the People's Republic of China (with fresh seal), power of attorney (with fresh seal), agent's ID card copy, and the vehicle. Notes: Vehicles eligible for exemption from inspection and issuance of inspection qualification marks only need to visit the vehicle management office, motor vehicle registration service station, or traffic police squadron to fill out the "Motor Vehicle Inspection Mark Application Form" and then receive the motor vehicle inspection qualification mark and vehicle license.
When my car just entered its fourth year, I was quite nervous, but after checking the information, I found there was no need to worry at all: new cars are exempt from on-site inspections for the first 6 years, so in the fourth year, I didn’t have to queue up at the inspection station for a vehicle test. However, it’s mandatory to apply for the inspection exemption label; otherwise, you’ll face fines and penalty points. I used the Traffic Management 12123 APP to handle it: after logging in, I clicked on the "Apply for Inspection Exemption" service, uploaded a clear photo of the vehicle license, and the electronic label became effective after just one day of review—quick, hassle-free, and free of charge. During this period, my car was in stable condition, so I took the opportunity to check the brake lights and tire wear to ensure everything was fine and avoid any minor issues affecting safety. After six years, an annual on-site inspection will be required, so I set a calendar reminder on my phone to prevent forgetting. Keeping the insurance valid and not skipping regular maintenance ensures compliant driving with minimal hassle.
Having driven for over 20 years, my car really saved me a lot of trouble in its fourth year. The regulations clearly state that new vehicles are exempt from on-site annual inspections for the first six years, and the fourth year falls within this exemption period, so there's no need to go through the hassle of visiting an inspection station. However, it's absolutely essential to apply for the exemption inspection compliance sticker—this step must not be skipped, otherwise, you risk a fine of 100-200 yuan plus penalty points, which isn't worth it. I prefer handling it offline at the vehicle management office: just bring a copy of the vehicle registration certificate to the counter staff, and you'll get the paper sticker in about ten minutes. Using the app for online processing is even simpler. Take this opportunity to check if the lights and braking system are functioning properly, especially since nighttime driving safety comes first. The rules are designed to save car owners both money and time, and as long as regular maintenance is properly done, there should be no issues before the sixth-year on-site inspection. Modified or accident-damaged vehicles need to pay attention to additional requirements.
