How to Operate Vehicle Annual Inspection?
3 Answers
The process of vehicle annual inspection is: 1. Fill out two forms: the Motor Vehicle License Application Form and the Motor Vehicle Inspection Record Form; 2. Locate the annual inspection registration window, submit materials for review and registration; 3. Find the violation inquiry window, and pay any fines for violations if present; 4. Have an inspector conduct an external inspection of the vehicle, which includes opening the hood and checking the chassis number. The inspector will provide a signed page confirming the inspection is qualified, then proceed to the inspection payment window to receive an invoice; 5. Go to the inspection registration window and leave all materials there; 6. Wait in line for the inspection, and receive an inspection report upon completion; 7. Submit the annual inspection materials to the staff; 8. Once the annual inspection is qualified, the annual inspection sticker will be issued.
Just finished my annual vehicle inspection and sharing some tips. First step is handling any traffic violations, which can be done via the Traffic Management 12123 app. Then bring your ID card, vehicle license, and compulsory traffic insurance policy to the inspection station. Arriving half an hour early to queue is recommended, as post-pandemic procedures mostly involve self-service number taking and form filling. Your car needs to pass two stages: first is the lighting, brakes, and emissions test where staff will drive it onto the testing platform; followed by a manual check of items like fire extinguishers and warning triangles. My old car failed the emissions test last year, so I replaced the spark plugs this time to pass. The whole process took about two hours and cost over 400 yuan—remember to bring cash as some stations don’t accept cards. If you fail, you’ll get a slip allowing a free re-inspection within ten days after repairs.
As someone who frequently helps neighbors with annual vehicle inspections, here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Don't overlook the required documents: original vehicle license, duplicate copy of compulsory traffic insurance (print electronic policies), copy of the owner's ID card, and a power of attorney if you're handling it for someone else. Modified vehicles require special attention—dark window tints must be removed, and wheel rim sizes cannot be altered. Older cars often face issues with emissions; I usually recommend taking them on a highway run before the inspection to clear carbon deposits. The standard fee ranges from 300 to 400 RMB—anything over 700 RMB from scalpers is a rip-off. Good news under the new policy: vehicles over 15 years old now only require inspections every six months. I just helped my neighbor, Old Wang, get his 2005 Camry inspected last week.
