How many times does a 2003 vehicle need to be inspected annually?

[SanBrooklyn]

2 times. According to the vehicle registration time, new vehicles are inspected every 2 years within the first 5 years, every 1 year after exceeding 5 years, and every 6 months after exceeding 15 years. This new standard for motor vehicle inspection applies to vehicles registered after 2009 (specific start and end times may vary by region as determined by local provincial traffic police departments). New vehicles registered within the specified time frame are exempt from inspection for the first 6 years, but must provide insurance and an annual inspection form every 2 years to obtain a new inspection sticker. After 6 years, inspections are required once a year. Below is relevant information: 1. Out-of-area entrusted annual inspection: The procedure for an out-of-area entrusted annual inspection requires the owner to first apply to the original registration location before the annual inspection can be conducted, and an application must be submitted to the original registration vehicle management office every year. 2. Legal provisions: According to Article 16 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law": Motor vehicles shall undergo safety technical inspections according to the following periods from the date of registration: (1) Passenger vehicles for operational use shall be inspected once a year within 5 years; after exceeding 5 years, once every 6 months. (2) Trucks and large or medium-sized non-operational passenger vehicles shall be inspected once a year within 10 years; after exceeding 10 years, once every 6 months. (3) Small and mini non-operational passenger vehicles shall be inspected once every 2 years within 6 years; after exceeding 6 years, once a year; after exceeding 15 years, once every 6 months.

[VanLeilani]

I've been driving that 2003 model car for over a decade, and experience tells me that such old vehicles require biannual inspections. The policy used to be more lenient, but now for cars over 15 years old, regulations mandate one inspection in the first half of the year and another in the second half—don't skip this process. Before each inspection, I always do some pre-maintenance, checking the brakes and lights since older cars are prone to issues like failing emissions tests. Delaying inspections not only risks fines but more importantly endangers safety—my neighbor nearly had an accident due to overdue inspection. My advice is to find a reliable vehicle management office and book online to save time. Think of the biannual trip as a casual drive anyway.

[VanRose]

Last year I bought a used 2003 model car and found out through research that vehicles over 15 years old require two annual inspections, meaning I have to report to the DMV every six months. As a new driver, I find it a bit troublesome but understand that inspections ensure safety. I set reminders on my phone and check the car's condition in advance, like cleaning the light covers and checking tire wear, to avoid failing and having to go back. I also learned that older cars need more frequent maintenance, especially the emission system, or else it could cost more and cause delays. In short, following the rules avoids fines, and driving safely is what matters most.

[JoelLee]

According to current regulations, vehicles registered in 2003 have reached an advanced age and require biannual periodic inspections—one in the first half and another in the second half of the year—to ensure safety and emissions compliance. Once a vehicle crosses the 15-year threshold, this requirement applies. Failing to conduct timely inspections carries high risks of penalty points and fines. Routine maintenance should focus on lighting and braking systems to facilitate a one-time pass. For specific procedures, quick appointments can be made at the vehicle management office. Extra caution is advised for older vehicles as they are prone to issues.