Is a Compulsory Traffic Insurance Policy Required for Vehicle Inspection Now?
2 Answers
Some regions do not require a compulsory traffic insurance policy for vehicle inspection, while others do. It is advisable to check the local policies in your area to determine whether a paper copy of the compulsory traffic insurance policy is needed. Since vehicle inspection policies vary across regions, car owners are recommended to print out the electronic policy or call the local vehicle management office hotline before the inspection to avoid any inconvenience. Below is a basic introduction to compulsory traffic insurance: 1. The full name of compulsory traffic insurance is "Compulsory Motor Vehicle Traffic Accident Liability Insurance," which is a mandatory liability insurance provided by insurance companies to compensate victims (excluding passengers and the insured) for personal injury, death, or property damage caused by road traffic accidents involving the insured vehicle, within the liability limits. 2. Compulsory traffic insurance is China's first mandatory insurance system implemented under national law. The premiums follow a nationally unified standard set by the government, but the prices vary depending on the vehicle model, with the main influencing factor being the "number of car seats."
Last year when I had my vehicle inspected, bringing a copy of the compulsory traffic insurance policy was mandatory—otherwise, the DMV wouldn’t process it at all. Nowadays, most places allow electronic policies, such as storing them on your phone and displaying them directly via Alipay or insurance apps, but it’s wise to print a backup just in case—some remote inspection stations have outdated equipment that might glitch. Compulsory insurance is legally required to protect everyone on the road. If you lack it, your inspection will instantly fail, and you risk fines. Personally, I make a habit of checking my policy’s validity annually and renewing it promptly if expired to avoid delays. Bottom line: having your policy ready is basic common sense—don’t cut corners.
