
Vehicles generally undergo an annual inspection once a year, but the frequency may vary depending on the specific vehicle model. Below are the relevant details about annual inspections: Conditions: Vehicles whose condition does not match the records in the driving license or archives, or whose license plates or driving licenses are damaged, incomplete, illegible, or self-made. Notes: The exterior of the vehicle must not be modified. The tint of glass sunshade or anti-explosion film should not be too dark (items inside the vehicle should be visible from one meter away; mainly applies to vans and trucks, but not to passenger cars with fewer than 5 seats). Vans and trucks must have enlarged rear license plates, and the number of spring leaf plates must not be increased or decreased. The number of seats in vans must not be altered, and a fire extinguisher must be present. The compartments of box trucks must not be modified (no side doors, no roof openings, no tailgate additions). The size of tires must not be altered, and the tread patterns of tires on the same axle must be consistent. Vehicles with unresolved traffic violations or those impounded by the court cannot undergo annual inspection.

As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I remember how hassle-free it was when my car was new. For the first six years, I only needed to apply for the inspection sticker online every two years without having to drive to the inspection station. Now that my car is over six years old, I have to visit the inspection station annually for a comprehensive check, including safety items like lights and brakes. Although time-consuming, it helps prevent potential failures. For cars over ten years old, the frequency increases, possibly requiring inspections every six months, especially since older vehicles are more prone to emission and part issues, necessitating stricter checks to ensure road safety. I maintain my car diligently, keeping up with tire pressure and oil changes, which not only boosts the inspection pass rate but also extends the car's lifespan. Never delay inspections, as overdue checks can lead to fines, points deduction, and more headaches. Veteran drivers understand that regular inspections are a fundamental responsibility, protecting both themselves and others on the road.

Just got my driver's license and bought a used car. My driving instructor mentioned the frequency of annual inspections during lessons. The first six years are the easiest for new cars, just apply for the mark online every two years; after six years, it changes to a full inspection once a year; if the car is too old and over ten years, it might need an on-site inspection every six months, with slight differences in rules depending on the location. As a beginner, I'm particularly worried about failing due to faulty lights or excessive exhaust emissions, so washing the car and checking the lights in advance can save trouble. Online sources say late inspections incur fines starting from 200 yuan, and insurance becomes invalid, which is quite a hassle. It's recommended to use a mobile app to set reminder dates for convenience. In short, keeping the car in good condition and maintaining the engine regularly will make the annual inspection smoother and less troublesome.

At car dealerships, it's common knowledge that the frequency of vehicle inspections is categorized by the age of the car: new cars are exempt from on-site inspections for the first six years, requiring only an electronic label every two years; cars aged 6 to 10 years must undergo a full on-site inspection annually; vehicles over 10 years old are subject to stricter inspections every six months to prevent issues with aging components; and cars older than 15 years require inspections every six months or more. The inspection focuses on the braking system and lighting safety, which owners often neglect, leading to accidents. Exceeding emission standards can also result in fines, and timely inspections can extend the vehicle's lifespan.


