Does a car need annual inspection this year if it passed last year?
4 Answers
If a car passed the annual inspection last year, it does not need an inspection this year. Meaning of Annual Inspection: Vehicle annual inspection refers to a mandatory test that every vehicle with an official license plate and registration certificate must undergo. It is equivalent to an annual physical examination for the vehicle according to the "Technical Conditions for Motor Vehicle Operation Safety." Exemption Policy: Non-commercial small private passenger vehicles with 7 seats or fewer (including 7 seats) are exempt from on-site inspection for the first 6 years. However, the owner still needs to pass the exhaust emission test within the specified period (usually every 2 years) and apply for the inspection compliance mark at the vehicle management office, motor vehicle registration service station, or traffic police station, which must then be affixed to the upper right corner of the car's front windshield.
I know many car owners who have asked similar questions. Whether your car needs an inspection this year after last year's inspection mainly depends on the vehicle's age. According to regulations, new cars require inspection every two years for the first six years, and annually after the sixth year. So, if you had an inspection last year, do you need one this year? If your car is still within the first six years, you might not need to; but if it's over six years, you must. Check the date on your vehicle license or verify it with the 12123 APP to note the expiration date and plan ahead. Don't underestimate this—annual inspections ensure the safety of brakes and lights. If you forget, you could be fined 200 yuan and receive penalty points if caught on the road, which is a hassle. Make it a habit to check once a year for peace of mind and to avoid issues.
I've been driving a car for over ten years, and experience tells me that annual inspections can't be done on a whim. Just had it inspected last year, do I need to do it again this year? It depends on whether the car is overage. If the car is still in its younger stage, say five or six years old, the policy is to inspect it every two years, so it's likely you won't need to repeat the inspection this year. But if the car is over six years old, you'll have to make a trip to the inspection station every year. I made a mistake early on, thinking I didn't need an inspection and ended up being stopped for exceeding the limit and fined. I suggest you take a quick look at your vehicle license record to be on the safe side—don't cut corners and delay the important stuff. Daily maintenance should also keep up, as failing the annual inspection is often due to minor issues causing trouble. Regular checks benefit both you and others.
As a post-90s new car owner, I've been researching the annual inspection cycle right after getting into this. Do I need another inspection this year after passing last year? Actually, the rules are quite simple—it depends on your car's age. New cars require biennial inspections for the first six years, while older vehicles need annual checks. If unsure, just check your vehicle info via the official mobile app or website by entering your license plate number—it'll be crystal clear. Confirm early to avoid traffic police fines—it's both safe and compliant. Vehicle condition matters too—maintain small components like bulbs and tires regularly, and your annual inspection will be a breeze.
