How long can the annual vehicle inspection be delayed if it's overdue?
2 Answers
If the driver's license annual inspection is delayed for no more than one year, it can still be processed normally. Here is relevant information about how long the annual inspection can be overdue: 1. "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driver's Licenses": According to Article 77, Paragraph 7 of Chapter 5, if the motor vehicle driver's license is not renewed for more than one year after its expiration, the vehicle management office shall cancel the motor vehicle driver's license. 2. The vehicle management office shall cancel the motor vehicle driver's license: For individuals aged 70 or above, if they fail to submit a physical condition certificate within one year after the end of a scoring cycle. For individuals aged 60 or above, if the motor vehicle driver's license they hold only permits driving trolleybuses or trams.
I'm an experienced driver and have seen many friends procrastinate on their annual vehicle inspections. If your inspection is due, it's best not to delay it for more than three months. Why do I say that? Because in the first month, you might get away with it, but if the traffic police catch you, they can fine you on the spot—typically 200 to 500 yuan per offense, deduct 3 points, and you'll still have to complete the inspection. If you keep delaying and exceed six months, your vehicle information might get locked, rendering it illegal to drive. You could be towed anytime on the road, and the vehicle might even be forcibly scrapped. Once, my neighbor delayed for five months and ended up paying extra fees for late inspection and penalties, totaling nearly 1,000 yuan. Remember, safety comes first—don’t take big risks just to save a little time. The safest approach is to handle it at the DMV as early as possible.
