How often should a new car be inspected after 6 years?
2 Answers
After the first six years of a new car: 1. Small vehicles: Mini and small non-operational passenger vehicles over 6 years old must be inspected once a year. Within the three-month period that includes the month of initial registration and the two preceding months, after handling all traffic violations, bring the vehicle registration certificate, compulsory traffic insurance policy, and ID card to the local inspection station for vehicle inspection. 2. Small passenger vehicles: Non-operational mini and small passenger vehicles with 7 to 9 seats enjoy a 6-year exemption from inspection, exempt from on-site inspection within 6 years, but must collect an annual inspection sticker every 2 years. After 6 years, inspect once a year; after 15 years, inspect every six months. 3. Passenger vehicles: Operational passenger vehicles must be inspected once a year within 5 years, and every 6 months after 5 years. 4. Large vehicles: Trucks and large or medium non-operational passenger vehicles must be inspected once a year within 10 years, and every 6 months after 10 years.
I just passed the six-year mark with my new car and initially had no clue about the inspection process. For the first six years, although exempt from physical checks, I still had to apply for the inspection label every two years via the 12123 app—completely online. After six years, the rules changed: now, every two years, I must drive to a testing station for an actual on-site annual inspection, covering items like emissions, lights, and brakes. Last time, I brought my vehicle license, compulsory insurance slip, and ID card, spent about an hour in line and testing, and it went smoothly. This biennial inspection routine continues until the car reaches ten years old, after which it switches to annual checks; beyond fifteen years, inspections become even more frequent. My advice: maintain your car well year-round—don’t scramble last-minute. Annual inspections aren’t just about compliance; they’re crucial for spotting hazards and ensuring safety. Mark your calendar to avoid missing deadlines—roadside fines aren’t worth it.
