Is it acceptable not to display the 2020 inspection compliance sticker?
3 Answers
Currently, the annual inspection sticker must be displayed as there are no relevant policies indicating otherwise. Please note the following points: 1. Penalty for not displaying the sticker: According to Article 13 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law," the vehicle inspection compliance sticker and insurance sticker should be affixed to the upper right corner of the vehicle's front windshield. Failing to display these stickers as required is a violation of the law. If the annual inspection sticker is not displayed, the penalty is a 1-point deduction on the driver's license and a fine. 2. Digitalization of inspection stickers: In 2020, electronic inspection labels were widely promoted to replace the paper version of the annual inspection compliance sticker. Electronic inspection labels hold the same legal validity as the paper version. In provinces and cities where digital inspection stickers have been implemented, displaying the physical inspection compliance sticker is no longer mandatory.
Speaking of the 2020 vehicle inspection sticker, I can definitely say you shouldn’t skip putting it on. As someone who’s been driving for over a decade, I’ve seen plenty of friends get pulled over and fined by traffic police for forgetting to display it—especially in 2020 when e-stickers weren’t yet widely adopted nationwide, and most areas still relied on the paper version affixed to the windshield. Looking back, skipping it was pretty risky—not only could you face fines and points, but you might also be mistaken for skipping the inspection altogether, which could lead to safety issues down the road. My advice? Just stick it on properly. It’s tiny anyway and won’t take up much space—just slap it in the lower right corner. Oh, and if you’re forgetful, set a phone reminder to replace it yearly. Easy and worry-free.
I deal with this issue every day while repairing cars. It's best not to miss displaying the 2020 vehicle inspection sticker, as traffic regulations require it to be clearly visible. Otherwise, you could face a fine starting from 200 yuan if caught by traffic police, and it may even lead to an expired inspection record. As car owners, we all know the sticker serves as proof of passing the inspection. Not displaying it makes you more likely to be checked on the road and could complicate insurance claims. I recommend first checking if the sticker is still valid. If lost, promptly apply for a replacement at the traffic management department. Additionally, while digitization became more prominent after 2020, most provinces and cities still relied on paper stickers at that time, so don't cut corners. During routine maintenance, ask your technician if the sticker is placed correctly - safety always comes first.
