How often should a new motorcycle be inspected?
4 Answers
For a newly purchased and registered motorcycle, the inspection is required every two years for the first four years, and then annually starting from the fifth year. Annual Inspection: For the annual inspection, you only need to drive the motorcycle and bring the original ID card of the owner, the original vehicle registration certificate, the tax payment certificate for vehicle and vessel tax, and the compulsory insurance policy of the vehicle to a qualified local institution to complete the inspection. Introduction: Motor vehicle drivers must undergo regular inspections at the traffic management department of the public security authority in accordance with the provisions of laws and administrative regulations. When motor vehicle drivers renew their driving licenses in accordance with Articles 57 and 58 of these regulations, they must also undergo inspection by the traffic management department of the public security authority.
Last time when I accompanied my friend to register his newly purchased motorcycle, the traffic police officer at the DMV specifically reminded us that new vehicles within 6 years enjoy the benefit of exemption from on-site inspection, but every two years, we must apply for the electronic inspection mark through the Traffic Management 12123 APP. Remember to operate on the phone in the second and fourth years after the first registration date, and don't foolishly wait for the paper notice. The key point is that this exemption only applies to new vehicles purchased after October 2022; for vehicles bought earlier, the cycle must be calculated based on the registration date. You need to bring the insurance policy and the owner's ID card to upload, and the system review is instant and very convenient, which can be handled at any DMV nationwide.
This is a hot topic among newcomers in our motorcycle club! The policy has indeed been relaxed now, eliminating the hassle of visiting inspection stations within the first six years. However, it's important to note: motorcycles with an engine displacement above 250cc must undergo annual inspections after six years, while smaller displacement bikes still enjoy biennial inspections within the first decade. Additionally, friends who have modified their exhaust pipes or headlights should pay special attention—if the modifications don't match the factory photos during the annual inspection, the vehicle will be rejected. Last time, Old Wang had to spend half a day removing his crash guard for the inspection. Remember to keep the original parts so you can easily revert if needed.
Motorcycle annual inspections are not as complicated as those for cars. For a newly purchased motorcycle, you only need to undergo an on-site inspection once in the sixth year within the first four years—note that I’m referring to the sixth year after the initial registration. For example, if you bought the motorcycle in August 2023, you must visit the inspection station before August 2029. During this period, remember to collect the electronic label on the traffic management app every two years; otherwise, it will be considered overdue. You only need to bring three things: the vehicle license, a valid compulsory traffic insurance policy, and the documents proving that all traffic violations have been settled. It’s recommended to book an appointment at the inspection station two weeks in advance to avoid the end-of-month rush.
