How Long Can a Vehicle Go Without Inspection?
2 Answers
A vehicle can go without inspection for up to three months. If the inspection is overdue for less than three months, you can simply make up for it and will receive a verbal warning without a fine. If the inspection is overdue for more than three months but less than two years, you will need to pay a fine and receive a 3-point penalty. If the vehicle has not been inspected for more than two years, its registration file will be canceled. A vehicle is considered overdue for inspection once it exceeds the validity period of the inspection. Vehicle inspections can be conducted up to three months in advance. If a vehicle is driven on the road without undergoing the required periodic safety inspection, a 3-point penalty will be imposed, along with a warning or fine. According to Article 49 of the "Regulations on the Registration of Motor Vehicles": The owner of a motor vehicle may apply for an inspection compliance mark at the vehicle management office of the registration location up to three months before the expiration of the inspection validity period. According to Article 90 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": If a motor vehicle driver violates the road traffic safety laws or regulations regarding road traffic rules, they shall be given a warning or fined. If other provisions of this law apply, penalties shall be imposed accordingly. According to Article 16 of the "Implementation Regulations of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": Motor vehicles shall undergo safety inspections at the following intervals from the date of registration: Passenger vehicles for commercial use must be inspected once a year within the first 5 years; after 5 years, once every 6 months; trucks and large or medium-sized non-commercial passenger vehicles must be inspected once a year within the first 10 years; after 10 years, once every 6 months; small and mini non-commercial passenger vehicles must be inspected once every 2 years within the first 6 years; after 6 years, once a year; after 15 years, once every 6 months; motorcycles must be inspected once every 2 years within the first 4 years; after 4 years, once a year; tractors and other motor vehicles must be inspected once a year. If a commercial motor vehicle passes the safety inspection within the specified inspection period, it does not need to undergo another safety inspection.
After driving for so many years, I've realized that neglecting vehicle inspection is no joke. Generally, after your car's annual inspection expires, it's best to get it done within 15 days. Beyond this period, you might face fines, starting from 200 yuan. Delaying further makes it worse—if you go over a month without handling it, the police can impose fines, deduct points, or even impound your vehicle. I've seen a friend who delayed for three months end up with their license plate revoked and the vehicle scrapped. From a safety perspective, annual inspections ensure critical systems like brakes and lights are functioning properly. If these fail, it risks not just your safety but others' too. I recommend car owners regularly check their inspection dates and set reminders via apps or calendars. While some rural areas may be more lenient with deadlines, cities enforce strict penalties—don't take chances. Staying on top of inspections saves hassle and ensures peace of mind once completed.
