How Early Should a Vehicle Inspection Be Scheduled?

[VanJayden]

Vehicle annual inspection should be applied for three months in advance. According to legal regulations, the owner of a motor vehicle may apply for an inspection compliance mark at the vehicle registration authority within three months before the expiration of the vehicle's inspection validity period. Before applying, the owner must resolve all traffic violations and accident liabilities associated with the vehicle. Below is additional information: Relevant regulations: Check whether the vehicle comes with a user manual, certificate of conformity (or import commodity inspection certificate for imported vehicles), and whether factory inspection marks on the vehicle body are complete. Measure the internal and external contour dimensions, as well as the wheelbase and axle track of the vehicle. Specific measurement items include vehicle length, width, height, cargo compartment sideboard height and area, wheelbase, axle track, etc. Conduct inspections item by item according to technical standards. Upon passing, fill out the "Initial Inspection and Modification Registration Form for Motor Vehicles," and record the curb weight, load capacity, passenger capacity, and number of occupants in the driver's cabin as specified by the manufacturer.

[MelanieRose]

I've studied vehicle inspection scheduling, and there are significant differences based on the car's age: New cars are indeed exempt from on-site inspections for the first six years, but you must obtain an electronic label via the Traffic Management 12123 App every two years. After six years, you need to be cautious—from the seventh to ninth year, inspections are required every two years, and starting from the tenth year, you'll need to visit the inspection station annually. The latest you can complete the inspection is 30 days before the expiration date. For example, if your vehicle's registration shows an expiry date of September 2025, you should handle it between August and September. I recommend booking the inspection station about half a month in advance to avoid the end-of-month rush, which saves time. Commercial vehicles like trucks and operational vehicles face stricter rules, requiring annual inspections, so planning ahead is crucial. Once, a colleague was three days late and got fined 200 yuan with three penalty points—a huge loss.

[Fritz]

Timing is crucial for vehicle inspection. Based on my experience, preparing one month in advance is the safest approach. Last year, for my SUV's annual inspection, I booked an appointment through an online platform 25 days ahead and secured a weekend slot. On the inspection day, I brought my vehicle license, insurance policy, and ID card, and the entire process took less than half an hour. Here are two important reminders: first, if you've modified your vehicle, make sure to restore it to its original factory condition, and if you have dark window tints, remember to cut out triangular sections for visibility; second, while cross-regional annual inspections are now available nationwide, always check if the local inspection station's equipment supports your vehicle model. Also, if your insurance policy is about to expire, don't wait until the last minute—allow at least 10 days for renewal.

[JosephMarie]

Calculating the vehicle inspection schedule is quite straightforward: check the month of the inspection validity period printed on the duplicate of the driving license, and the window period is the month before that. For example, if it expires in December, the entire month of November is available for inspection. Under the new policy, vehicles over 15 years old no longer require biannual inspections, which is indeed a relief, but vehicles over 10 years old must still undergo annual inspections without exception. Small non-commercial vehicles can have their annual inspections processed in different locations, but motorcycles must return to their registered location, a detail often overlooked. It is recommended to set dual reminders on your mobile calendar: one 30 days before the inspection period and another 15 days prior. Ensure all traffic violations are resolved before the inspection, as failing key items like lights and brakes can cause significant delays.