How long is the validity period of a vehicle license?
3 Answers
The validity period of a vehicle license depends on the age of the vehicle. Taking passenger cars as an example, new vehicles require biennial inspections within the first 6 years, meaning the vehicle license is valid for 2 years. Between 6 to 15 years, annual inspections are required, so the license validity becomes 1 year. The motor vehicle license is the legal document permitting a vehicle to operate on Chinese roads and is an important certificate recognized by Chinese laws and regulations, serving significant functions. The motor vehicle license held by the driver contains detailed information, including the license plate number, owner's name, vehicle model category, engine number, chassis number, load capacity or passenger capacity, initial registration date, and annual inspection records. The motor vehicle license has a unique characteristic: for any specific vehicle, there is only one set of engine and chassis numbers, and only one license plate number.
I think the vehicle license doesn't actually have a fixed validity period. Just like my car, which I've had for so many years and it's still in use, this license remains valid. But don't forget, it only makes sense when combined with the annual inspection. The inspection cycle depends on the vehicle's age and type: for new small cars, you need to get the inspection sticker every two years in the first six years without an on-site inspection; after six years, it's every two years, and after ten years, it's every year. If you skip the inspection, the police may consider the license invalid if they check, with fines ranging from 200 to 2,000 yuan, and they might even impound the vehicle. I heard from a neighbor in my community that someone forgot to get the inspection, and as a result, they had trouble renewing their insurance and had to pay several thousand yuan extra for a late inspection. So it's best to set a reminder on your phone or use a traffic app to check the inspection date, so your license doesn't become worthless. When you go for the inspection, remember to bring the license with you—don't lose it, as getting a replacement can be a hassle.
The vehicle license is always valid, I can confirm that, as it's tied to the vehicle's identity. However, the law requires regular vehicle condition inspections, so the inspection schedule determines its 'practical validity'. Different vehicles have different rules: ordinary private cars are exempt from inspection for the first two years after purchase but must handle the electronic label, then require biennial inspections from years two to ten, and annual inspections after ten years. If delayed too long, the license becomes temporarily invalid, posing high risks on the road. I remember helping a family member with an inspection last year - being just three days overdue resulted in a fine, and worse, insurance claims were blocked. I recommend checking inspection records every six months; you can view the expiry date by entering the license plate number on the official public account. If expired, go to the DMV for a make-up inspection immediately - don't procrastinate. Keep the license safely in the vehicle, away from water and fire to prevent damage that could affect its use.
