
Under normal circumstances, a vehicle undergoes an annual inspection once a year, but the frequency may vary depending on the specific vehicle type. For commercial passenger vehicles, inspections are required once a year within the first five years and every six months thereafter. For small private cars, inspections are required every two years within the first six years and every six months after six years. Vehicles that are fifteen years or older also require inspections every six months. Relevant information about vehicle annual inspections is as follows: 1. Introduction: Vehicle annual inspection (Vehicles-inspection), also known as motor vehicle inspection. The inspection items and scope vary depending on the usage nature of the motor vehicle. 2. Inspection Items: According to the definition in RB/T218-2017 "Requirements for Qualification Assessment of Inspection and Testing Institutions - Motor Vehicle Inspection Institutions," motor vehicle inspections include three categories: motor vehicle safety technical inspection, motor vehicle emission inspection, and comprehensive performance inspection of vehicles.

Speaking of the annual vehicle inspection for small cars, as a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I'd like to share some insights. For the first 6 years after purchasing a new car, it's quite hassle-free as you don't need to take it to the inspection station for an on-site test. However, you must apply for the inspection sticker every two years via the traffic management app, similar to renewing an ID, just to confirm there are no major issues with the vehicle. After the 6th year, you'll need to undergo a physical inspection, followed by biennial checks. These mainly focus on critical components like brakes, lights, and emissions to prevent potential hazards over time. I personally went through the inspection last year and discovered some tire wear, so I replaced them with new ones, which worked out well. Once the car reaches 10 years old, it requires annual inspections. Policies may change occasionally, such as stricter environmental requirements in certain areas leading to more frequent checks. Therefore, I recommend not delaying and staying on schedule to avoid fines. Overall, maintaining safe vehicle conditions is paramount, and spending a little time on inspections is well worth it.

I just got my driver's license and bought my first car, but I was a bit confused about the vehicle inspection cycle. After checking, I found out the rules: For the first 6 years of a new car, there's no need for an on-site inspection, but you must apply for the inspection mark online or at a service window every two years to certify that the car is in good condition. Starting from the 6th year, you need to go to the inspection station every two years for a comprehensive check-up. The inspector will test things like brake responsiveness and headlight functionality—it felt a bit nerve-wracking, but as long as you bring your vehicle license and ID card, it usually goes smoothly. My first time there took about half an hour, and I also learned to regularly check tire pressure and engine oil levels to avoid minor issues that could lead to a re-inspection. After 10 years, inspections become annual, which is more frequent, so I advise new car owners to familiarize themselves with these rules early to avoid last-minute chaos that could disrupt travel plans. Developing good habits makes driving more reassuring.

Our family car is mainly used to pick up and drop off our children at school, so the annual inspection is something we need to keep in mind. The inspection cycle for small cars is quite user-friendly. For the first few years, there’s not much to worry about—just collect a sticker every two years for the first 6 years. However, starting from the 7th year, a comprehensive inspection at the testing station is required every two years, and after the 11th year, it becomes an annual check. I’ve noticed this is related to the car’s age—older cars pose more risks, and regular inspections can help identify potential issues with brakes or the engine early, ensuring the safety of our family trips. Usually, my husband does a quick self-check before driving, like checking if the lights are working and the seat belts are functional, which saves time during the official inspection. The policy is also quite flexible—records can be checked on the phone—so it’s essential for everyone to develop this habit.


