Is it necessary to display the vehicle inspection sticker?
3 Answers
It is required to display the vehicle inspection sticker, which is generally affixed to the upper right corner of the front windshield. Key points to note for the inspection include: 1. Confirm all traffic violations and ensure all fines are paid; 2. Have the original vehicle license, copy of compulsory traffic insurance, photocopy of ID card, and the vehicle ready; 3. Ensure the tire pressure indicator is within the green normal range; 4. Wash the car before the inspection. The annual vehicle inspection is a mandatory test for all vehicles with official license plates and registration certificates, equivalent to an annual health check-up based on the safety technical requirements for motor vehicle operation. It helps promptly eliminate potential safety hazards, encourages better vehicle maintenance, and reduces the occurrence of traffic accidents.
I remember in the past, several stickers like the annual inspection decal and insurance decal had to be displayed on the windshield. Now it's no longer necessary! Since June 2020, electronic annual inspection marks have been implemented nationwide. During my last inspection, I just received an electronic certificate stored in the Traffic Management 12123 app. When police check the vehicle, you can simply show it on your phone, and they can also verify it in their system. However, it's recommended to save a screenshot of the electronic certificate in your photo album, just in case your phone has no internet connection. Of course, vehicles still need to undergo inspections on time, otherwise you'll get penalty points if caught without the mark. This policy is really convenient—no more sticky residue from removing decals, and the driving view is much clearer.
Recently, while helping a friend with car-related matters, I finally understood that the annual inspection sticker is no longer mandatory to display. The key is whether your region has implemented an electronic policy. For example, here in Zhejiang, traffic police can scan the license plate with their phones to check the inspection information. However, some veteran drivers prefer to print out the electronic label and keep it in the glove compartment as a backup, just in case their phone runs out of battery. Also, a reminder for used car buyers: after the transfer of ownership, make sure to update the annual inspection information promptly. The electronic label can be reapplied for in the app. Although the sticker isn't required, some places still mandate displaying the insurance label, so don't get them mixed up.
