How to License a Car?

[Elaine]

Generally, the vehicle must not be modified, have no window tinting, and the chassis number and engine number must be clearly visible. A warning triangle is also required. Then, the staff will input the information. After verification, you can select a license plate number and proceed to payment upon completion of the selection. The required documents include the property certificate, vehicle license, inspection certificate, national version of the environmental protection label, and a copy of the environmental protection label.

[Dallas]

I just bought a new car, and the process of getting it licensed was actually quite straightforward. After obtaining the purchase invoice and vehicle certification from the 4S store, I went straight to the tax bureau to pay the purchase tax, which is usually 10% of the car's price. Then, I had to buy compulsory traffic insurance, and I chose the commonly known PICC. Next, I went to the vehicle management office, where there were quite a lot of people. I queued up for the vehicle inspection: the staff checked if the VIN and engine number matched the invoice and also inspected the safety devices. After passing the inspection, I started selecting the license plate number. You can either choose randomly by computer or customize your own number. I picked a meaningful combination of numbers and got a temporary license plate on the spot to stick on and drive home. After a few days, the official license plate was mailed to my home, and I made sure to install it promptly without delay. The whole process took about two or three days, mainly due to the queuing time. Looking back now, it's best to complete the licensing process for a new car as soon as possible; otherwise, you risk getting points deducted and fined if stopped on the road. For used cars, there's an additional transfer procedure, and you need to ensure the previous owner's information is complete.

[DiLeonardo]

From my experience, there are several key points not to miss when getting license plates. First, secure insurance—it's a legal requirement. Then, pay the purchase tax, typically around 10%. Next, proceed to the vehicle inspection at the DMV to ensure the car meets standards, such as proper exterior and lighting. When selecting a plate number, you can choose a random one on-site or pre-select via an app. Finally, collect and install the plates. New energy vehicles are popular—they qualify for green plates with priority lanes, exemption from purchase tax, and benefits like free parking, making them convenient and eco-friendly. A reminder: policies vary by city—smaller cities are straightforward, while major cities like Beijing or Shanghai may require a lottery for eligibility first. Costs include taxes, insurance, and a processing fee of around 200 yuan. Prepare copies of your ID and original purchase invoice in advance, and booking online can help reduce wait times.

[DeHarley]

At my age, I've driven quite a few cars, and getting license plates is much more efficient now than before. The steps are basically the same: take the invoice and ID card to pay taxes and buy insurance, then bring the car to the DMV for inspection, number selection, and plate collection. During the inspection, remember to check if the tires and brakes are in good condition—don't be careless. When choosing a plate, keep it simple—just go for the standard blue plate. For new energy vehicles, the green plate is even more convenient. Safety is a must: use temporary plates until the official ones are properly affixed to avoid fines; attach the official plates immediately after to ensure safe nighttime driving. The whole process can be completed in a single day if done efficiently. It's advisable to bring some water and patience, and go early to avoid peak hours.