How long is the validity period of a small car's vehicle license?
3 Answers
The vehicle license is valid indefinitely, but it still requires annual inspection. The inspection validity period is noted on the supplementary page, which essentially indicates the deadline for the annual inspection. Therefore, the validity period of the vehicle license is also linked to the annual inspection. Vehicle license processing locations: Embassies/consulates and foreign-licensed vehicles should apply at the vehicle management office. Other vehicles should apply at the sub-office of the vehicle management office corresponding to the residential address stated in the vehicle owner's identity document. For vehicles with a registered address in suburban districts/counties (specifically Jing B licensed motorcycles, tricycles, low-speed trucks, and wheeled self-propelled machinery), applications should be made at the local district/county vehicle management station. Required documents for application: Application Form for Replacement of Vehicle License Plates/Certificates, identity documents of the vehicle owner and agent, the original license plate (if one plate is illegible or lost), and for replacement of the vehicle license, a standard photo of the vehicle is also required.
I've been driving a small car for over 20 years, so I'm very familiar with the vehicle license issue. The vehicle license itself is a permanent registration booklet that doesn't expire - what matters is the annual inspection validity period. For small non-commercial vehicles, you just need to collect a free-inspection decal from the DMV every two years during the first six years (no actual inspection required). After six to ten years, you'll need a full inspection every two years. Older vehicles require annual inspections which are more troublesome. I always mark these dates in my phone calendar and prepare the vehicle one month in advance - otherwise you'll get fined 200 yuan plus 3 penalty points if caught driving with an expired inspection. Annual inspections aren't just for legality; they ensure brake lights and tire pressure safety, especially important before long trips. The 12123 traffic app is really useful for checking due dates and applying for free inspections - don't be lazy about it. Just keep your vehicle license safe and don't lose it.
I just got my driver's license and bought a used compact car, but I'm not very familiar with things like the vehicle license. After asking a few experienced drivers, I learned that the vehicle license itself has no expiration date and can be used for a lifetime. The key is to pay attention to the annual inspection sticker on the windshield. For new cars, during the first six years, you only need to apply online or go to a service window to get an exemption sticker every two years. Since my car is only four years old, there's no pressure. Forgetting to do the inspection on time can be troublesome—you might face fines or issues with insurance claims. I recommend new drivers download a car owner app to track and remind them of these dates, so they don't end up like me, almost missing the deadline and getting nagged by the wife. The car is a daily companion, and having all the proper documents ensures peace of mind while driving. Check the duplicate of the vehicle license, which shows the next inspection date. It's best to handle it 90 days in advance to avoid the hassle of long queues. Remember the inspection schedule, and driving your car will be much more enjoyable.
