How Long Can Vehicle Inspection Be Postponed?

[DelClaire]

Vehicle inspection can be delayed for a maximum of 1 month. Below are the inspection intervals for different types of vehicles: 1. For passenger transport vehicles within 5 years, inspection is required once a year; for those over 5 years, once every 6 months; 2. For trucks and large or medium-sized non-passenger transport vehicles within 10 years, inspection is required once a year; for those over 10 years, once every 6 months; 3. For small and mini non-passenger transport vehicles within 6 years, inspection is required once every 2 years; for those over 6 years, once a year; and for those over 15 years, once every 6 months. Additional information: The vehicle inspection process refers to the fixed procedure that motor vehicles must undergo annually, which is a mandatory test for every vehicle.

[Thomas]

I've specifically researched this before, and you absolutely cannot delay your vehicle's annual inspection. According to regulations, you must complete it within 90 days before the expiration date. If you drive even one day past the deadline and get caught by traffic cameras, you'll immediately lose 3 points on your license and be fined 200 yuan. If you miss three consecutive inspection cycles, your license plate will be revoked and the vehicle scrapped. Particularly for compulsory traffic insurance, the insurer may deny claims if your inspection is overdue. I heard about one owner who delayed by just one month, then had a minor accident and ended up paying tens of thousands out of pocket. I sincerely advise everyone to set a phone reminder and book an inspection station appointment at least one month in advance—don't wait until the last few days when queues are long.

[Leonard]

My friend works at the DMV and says the annual inspection extension policy is very strict. Each vehicle has a fixed inspection cycle. For example, cars under six years old need to apply for a label online every two years, while vehicles over ten years old must undergo an annual on-site inspection. If you encounter special circumstances, such as being on a business trip or under pandemic lockdown, it's best to call the local DMV in advance to report. Some places might grant a one-month grace period, but a make-up inspection is mandatory afterward. However, under normal circumstances, there's no leniency—driving with an expired inspection leads to immediate vehicle impoundment and license suspension. Once, I returned from a business trip three days late and found a ticket stuck on my car at the inspection station, plus an extra 50 yuan late fee.

[MacKaden]

Just finished my car's annual inspection, and experience tells me: getting it done early is the most worry-free. You can usually handle it up to 90 days before the expiration date—no need to wait until the deadline. Inspection stations are often packed on weekends, while weekdays tend to be quieter. If your car is older, it’s wise to check items like lights and brakes beforehand to avoid failing and having to make a second trip. Last time, a faulty taillight contact wasted my time, but I got it all sorted in two hours. Remember, waiting until the last minute risks forgetting—setting a phone calendar reminder is the safest bet.