Does the Vehicle Annual Inspection Require the Owner to Go in Person?
2 Answers
Vehicle annual inspection does not require the owner to handle it personally. Others can handle the vehicle annual inspection by presenting the owner's authorization certificate and the vehicle's relevant documents. Before the annual inspection, it is necessary to prepare all the required documents and materials, including the ID card, driver's license, vehicle license, and the compulsory traffic insurance certificate. When someone else handles it, the handler's ID card is also required. Methods of Annual Inspection: The first method is through a mobile APP, which can inspect motor vehicles exempt from on-site testing. The second method is through the vehicle management office or the traffic management department of the public security authority, which requires an on-site inspection at a vehicle testing institution. According to the new traffic regulations, non-commercial cars, including non-commercial small and micro passenger vehicles, are subject to a six-year exemption from on-site inspection. However, it is important to note that every two years, an inspection mark must be applied for from the traffic management department; otherwise, it will be considered as overdue inspection. Seven-seater and above SUVs and MPVs are not eligible for the six-year exemption policy. According to the regulations on the registration and use of motor vehicles, the owner of the motor vehicle can apply for the inspection compliance mark from the local vehicle management office within three months before the expiration of the motor vehicle inspection validity period.
I just had my car inspected last year, and it doesn't necessarily require the owner to be present in person. I remember I was really busy that day, so I entrusted my neighbor to take my ID copy and vehicle license to the inspection station, and the whole process went smoothly. Many cities now support proxy handling, whether it's family, friends, or professional agencies—as long as all the required documents are brought, it's fine. However, if the car has historical faults or modifications, the inspector might require on-site communication, in which case it's better for the owner to go. Additionally, it's advisable to check local policies in advance, as some places, especially big cities, have stricter requirements for proxy handling, such as requiring a signed power of attorney. Personally, I find proxy handling saves time and hassle, especially for busy working professionals—it's a practical solution.
