Is an Inspection-Exempt Vehicle Required During the Exemption Period?
2 Answers
New vehicles enjoy a 6-year exemption from annual inspections, meaning they do not need to undergo on-site testing during this period, applicable to private passenger vehicles with 5 seats or fewer. However, owners are still required to complete the annual inspection procedure every two years—obtaining an inspection decal (for motorcycles, the decal must be obtained in the 2nd, 4th, and 5th years, with an on-site test required in the 6th year). If the inspection decal expires and is discovered by traffic police, a 3-point deduction and a fine will be imposed. Below are the relevant regulations: Small and micro non-commercial passenger vehicles: Inspection once every 2 years within the first 6 years; once every year after exceeding 6 years; once every 6 months after exceeding 15 years. Trucks and large, medium non-commercial passenger vehicles: Inspection once every year within the first 10 years; once every 6 months after exceeding 10 years.
As an experienced car owner who has driven several vehicles, I must remind everyone not to assume that nothing needs attention during the exemption period. For the first 6 years of a new car, there's indeed no need for an annual on-site inspection at the testing station, but you must apply for the inspection exemption certificate every two years. Otherwise, it counts as a violation for skipping the annual inspection. When I first bought my new car, I overlooked this and almost got fined 200 yuan with 3 penalty points by the police. Now I always remember to apply on time through the Traffic Management 12123 APP, just upload the vehicle information and photos of the compulsory traffic insurance policy. This certificate is proof that the vehicle meets safety standards during the exemption period, and without it, insurance claims could be problematic. Additionally, I suggest owners not slack on regular maintenance—check brakes, tires, and lights—so you can pass the inspection smoothly once the exemption period ends. Remember, good policies are good, but procedures can't be skipped; lazy folks will pay the price.
