
Large vehicle annual inspection takes about half a day. Regulations for annual inspection: According to Article 70 of the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses": Motor vehicle drivers shall, in accordance with the provisions of laws and administrative regulations, regularly undergo inspection at the traffic management department of the public security authority. When motor vehicle drivers renew their driving licenses in accordance with Articles 57 and 58 of these regulations, they shall undergo inspection by the traffic management department of the public security authority. Points to note for annual inspection: Inspection will not be approved if there are outstanding traffic violations or accidents, if physical conditions do not meet the requirements for driving permits, or if the driver has not participated in required study, education, and examinations as stipulated.

Last time I took my heavy truck for the annual inspection, the whole process took nearly three hours, mainly due to long waiting times. It was a Monday morning with quite a crowd, and I arrived around 9 a.m., but didn't get my turn for the inspection until 10 a.m. The staff at the inspection station first checked my documents—both the vehicle license and insurance policy needed to be ready. Then they tested the lights, brakes, and exhaust emissions on the truck. If the vehicle is in good condition, the inspection goes smoothly and can be done in half an hour. But if there are issues like excessive exhaust emissions or dim lights, you’ll need on-site adjustments or have to go to a repair shop for a recheck, which can drag on for half a day. I recommend fellow drivers to book an appointment a day or two in advance, choose off-peak hours on weekdays, and bring all the required documents to save time. Also, check the tires and lights beforehand and fix any issues to avoid rework delays. The annual inspection ensures road safety, so don’t rush or cut corners—safety comes first.

As staff at an inspection station that frequently handles annual inspections for large vehicles, we generally advise owners to allocate two to three hours. Upon arrival, we first verify the vehicle license and insurance documents to ensure all materials are complete and error-free, then arrange for on-site testing of the braking system, lighting, exhaust emissions, and other items. If the vehicle has no major issues, testing plus waiting for results typically takes about an hour. However, during peak periods or rainy days with long queues, the process may extend into the afternoon. Vehicles in poorer condition, such as those with non-functioning lights or unusual noises, will face longer delays. I recommend regular maintenance, like periodic replacement of brake pads and bulbs, along with a thorough pre-inspection check to ensure a smooth process. Avoid the year-end rush—weekdays during off-peak hours are far more efficient, saving owners significant time.

When I first learned to drive a large vehicle, I didn't know how long the annual inspection would take, and I foolishly waited half a day on my first visit. Later, I learned it usually takes about one to two hours, depending on the situation: if the vehicle is in good condition and the inspection station isn't busy, it can be done quickly; if the vehicle has issues or there's a long queue, it takes longer. The process includes registering materials and on-site inspections for lights, brakes, etc. If the test fails and needs to be redone, it becomes troublesome. I recommend booking the inspection time in advance and preparing documents like the vehicle registration certificate to save time. The annual inspection ensures the vehicle is safe to drive, and although it takes a short time, it's important.


