How to Calculate the 6-Year Exemption for Used Cars?
2 Answers
According to relevant laws and regulations, the annual inspection period for used cars is also calculated from the time of the new car, regardless of the number of vehicle transfers. Here is additional information: 1. Annual inspection cycles for different vehicle types: For non-commercial mini or small passenger vehicles, the first six years are exempt from inspection (online inspection), but the inspection compliance label must be collected from the designated inspection agency every 2 years. For used cars aged 6-15 years, an annual on-site inspection is required, with the inspection month based on the registration month on the vehicle license. Vehicles aged 15 years or older must be inspected every six months. For large commercial passenger vehicles or cargo vehicles, used cars aged within 10 years require an annual inspection, while those over 10 years must be inspected every six months. 2. Required documents for used car annual inspection: (1) Vehicle owner's license; (2) ID card; (3) Driver's license; (4) Valid compulsory traffic insurance policy; (5) If processing through an agent, a "Power of Attorney" and the agent's driver's license and ID card are also required.
I'm a car enthusiast who loves tinkering with vehicles. When I bought a used car last time, I specifically researched the 6-year exemption from inspection. Actually, the exemption period is calculated from the day the car was first registered, and it doesn't require an on-site inspection within the first 6 years, regardless of when you buy it. When purchasing a used car, always ask the seller for a copy of the vehicle's registration certificate, which shows the registration date, to verify if it's still within the 6-year period. For example, my car was registered in May 2020, and I bought it in 2024, so it still has over a year left before the exemption expires. Right now, I only need to go to the DMV every two years to apply for an exemption sticker. Don’t skip this to save money—otherwise, you might end up having to inspect the car soon after buying it, wasting both time and fuel costs. I’ve also heard of people who didn’t check the date, assuming a newer car would be fine, only to find out the exemption had expired, forcing them to inspect it annually. Before buying, I recommend checking the DMV app or website—just enter the license plate number to see the inspection exemption status.
