
Passenger vehicles are categorized into commercial and non-commercial use. Family cars fall under non-commercial vehicles, which are exempt from inspection for the first 6 years; vehicles older than 6 years require annual inspection; those exceeding 15 years must be inspected every 6 months. Taxis, as commercial passenger vehicles, require annual inspection within the first 5 years, and semi-annual inspections thereafter. Vehicle annual inspection refers to mandatory testing for all registered vehicles with official license plates and registration certificates. It functions as an annual 'health check' based on motor vehicle safety technical standards, helping to promptly eliminate potential hazards, encourage proper maintenance, and reduce traffic accidents - commonly known as vehicle inspection.

As an ordinary car owner who has been driving small cars for over a decade, I remember the dealer advising me when purchasing the car that new vehicles enjoy exemption from inspection for the first 6 years, requiring only a biennial trip to the vehicle management office to apply for an inspection sticker without actual testing. However, after 6 years, the rules change, mandating an annual on-site inspection at a testing station to check lights, brakes, and safety devices. Now that my car has just turned 12 years old, it must undergo inspection every six months, spending half a day checking emissions and engine performance to ensure no malfunctions. Every driver knows that an expired inspection not only incurs fines but also affects insurance renewal. I set reminders on my phone calendar and book the testing station two weeks in advance, making it hassle-free and efficient. Regular maintenance extends the car's lifespan—after all, safety is no small matter, especially for friends who frequently take long trips. Never take it lightly.

Having worked in auto repair shops for years, I've become familiar with the vehicle inspection cycle from car owners: For the first 6 years after a new car is purchased, apply for an exemption inspection decal every 2 years, submitting documents only without physical inspection; from 6 to 10 years, undergo an annual physical inspection including chassis and electrical system checks; after 10 years, inspections are required every 6 months. This is because aging components like tires and shock absorbers wear out faster, and untimely repairs can increase risks. It's recommended to do a simple pre-drive check on lights and other functions; addressing any abnormalities through maintenance before inspection can avoid repeated hassles. Missing the inspection deadline incurs a fine starting at 200 yuan plus penalty points, which is quite costly for daily car use. Developing a habit of regular maintenance makes your car last longer.

Just got my driver's license and bought a used car. I specifically researched about vehicle annual inspection: For the first 6 years, new cars only need to apply for exemption inspection every 2 years. Between 6 to 10 years, it's an annual inspection, and for cars over 10 years old, it's every six months. My used car is 8 years old, so this year I have to go to the inspection station every year to check the lights and exhaust, which takes half a day. Using an app to remind me, with automatic notifications when due, and booking in advance to avoid queues, prevents missing it and affecting travel. Keeping the car clean makes the inspection go smoother.


