Does the 6-year exemption from inspection include the 6th year?

[DiJameson]

Six-year exemption from inspection does not include the 6th year. The 6-year exemption period is calculated from the date of registration. Relevant details about the inspection are as follows: Definition of 6-year exemption from inspection: New vehicles are exempt from on-site inspection within the first six years, but owners are required to collect the exemption label every two years. The documents needed for collection include the vehicle license and compulsory traffic insurance policy. Vehicles without the exemption label will be subject to penalties if caught on the road. Purpose of inspection: The purpose of vehicle inspection is to identify potential hazards, including the vehicle's appearance, engine, and other components. After six years, the on-site inspection process for new vehicles is not overly complicated, but all items inside the vehicle must be cleared to avoid exceeding weight limits. Regular inspection requirements: In addition to passenger car inspections, non-commercial cars and other small or micro passenger vehicles within 6 years must undergo a regular inspection every 2 years. Required documents include the compulsory traffic insurance policy, vehicle and vessel tax payment or exemption certificate, and vehicle license. The inspection is conducted online through the traffic management department, and all traffic violations must be resolved before the inspection.

[DeAnderson]

The term "six-year exemption from inspection" can actually be a bit misleading. It means that for the first five years after purchasing a new car, you are exempt from the on-site inspection and only need to apply for the inspection compliance sticker at the traffic management office every two years. However, the sixth year is not included in this exemption period, and you must take your car to a testing station for a comprehensive on-site inspection. This is because after five years of use, mechanical components such as brakes and tires begin to wear out, and national policy requires a safety performance check in the sixth year to prevent accidents. I've encountered many car owners who thought the exemption lasted the full six years, only to forget the inspection in the sixth year and end up fined, not to mention the inconvenience. It's advisable to check your vehicle's registration date in advance and remember to book an appointment at the testing station in the sixth year—the process is usually quick and straightforward.

[DiStephen]

I can relate to this deeply. My own car also had a five-year exemption from inspection, and as the sixth year approached, the DMV sent a text reminder that it needed to undergo a full inspection. The sixth year is indeed not included in the exemption and requires a comprehensive check, including lights, brakes, and emissions. That time, I spent a whole morning queuing at the inspection station, but fortunately, my car passed in one go since it was in good condition. The policy is mainly because new cars are reliable in the first few years, but after five or six years, they need to be checked for safety. It's best for owners to do some minor maintenance around the sixth year, like cleaning the lights and replacing brake pads, to make the inspection smoother. Late inspections can result in points and fines—don’t lose big for small gains.

[LaJake]

From the perspective of automotive safety, it's reasonable that the six-year exemption from inspection doesn't include the sixth year. New vehicles have low failure rates in the first five years, exempting them from on-site inspections. However, by the sixth year, potential hazards such as wiring aging or suspension issues may emerge, necessitating on-site inspections to ensure driving safety. The policy mandates inspections in the sixth year; failure to comply is a violation and increases accident risks. I recommend that vehicle owners remember to undergo a comprehensive inspection at the testing station in the sixth year to identify and address issues early.