
Car annual inspection does not require the owner to go in person. Below is an introduction to vehicle annual inspection: Documents required for vehicle annual inspection: Car, vehicle license, original and duplicate copies, and valid compulsory traffic insurance policy; Vehicles that cannot participate in the inspection include those whose condition does not match the records on the vehicle license or archives, those with damaged, incomplete, illegible, or self-made license plates, and those with modifications, alterations, or technical transformations that have not undergone approval and change procedures. Annual inspection items: Check whether the engine, chassis, body, and their accessories are clean, complete, and effective, whether the paint is uniform and aesthetically pleasing, whether the main assemblies have been replaced, whether they match the initial inspection records, and whether the vehicle's braking performance, lights, exhaust, and other safety performance meet the requirements of relevant regulations.

I've been through the annual vehicle inspection several times last year, and it's indeed not always necessary to go in person. The DMV regulations allow vehicle owners to authorize others to handle the procedures on their behalf. Just provide copies of the owner's ID card, vehicle registration, compulsory traffic insurance policy, and let a friend or family member drive the car there. However, it's important to note that it's better to prepare a letter of authorization with the agent's personal information. Although some places may not check it, having one ready is more secure. Of course, if the vehicle is registered under a company name, the process becomes more complicated, possibly requiring the company seal, etc. I recommend calling the local inspection station in advance to inquire about specific requirements to avoid a wasted trip. Additionally, some places have implemented electronic authorization services, making it even more convenient—just handle the authorization directly via mobile phone.

From my experience, entrusting someone to handle the annual vehicle inspection is completely feasible. Last week, I just helped my father-in-law complete his annual inspection. The process is actually simple: just bring a copy of his ID card, the original vehicle license, a duplicate of the compulsory traffic insurance within the validity period, drive the car to the inspection station, pay the fee, and queue up. The whole process was completed in half an hour. The agent doesn't need any special qualifications; even an ordinary friend can do it. However, it's important to pay attention to vehicle modifications. Cars with illegal modifications are more likely to be rejected. By the way, vehicles eligible for the six-year exemption from inspection don't need to go through the physical inspection. It's even more convenient to apply for the electronic label directly through the 12123 app, saving the effort of finding an agent altogether.

It really doesn't matter whether I personally attend the annual vehicle inspection. Every time, I just have my wife drive the car to the inspection station with a copy of my ID card and the vehicle license. The staff only verify the vehicle information and documents, without checking if it's the owner present. However, special attention must be paid to ensure the compulsory traffic insurance policy is valid - if expired, renewal is required beforehand. Additionally, owners who've modified headlights or applied dark window tinting should be cautious, as these may cause inspection failure requiring on-site rectification, which would be troublesome for the agent. Also, all traffic violation records must be cleared in advance, otherwise the trip would be in vain.


