Is it necessary to obtain the annual inspection sticker for the first year of a new car?
3 Answers
New non-commercial passenger vehicles are exempt from online annual inspections for the first six years, but a biennial inspection is still required to apply for the inspection sticker. Additional information: According to the "Opinions on Strengthening and Improving Motor Vehicle Inspection Work": Article 11 introduces a six-year exemption from inspection for non-commercial passenger vehicles and similar. Starting from September 1, 2014, non-commercial passenger vehicles and other small and micro passenger vehicles (excluding vans and vehicles with seven or more seats) within six years of purchase are exempt from inspection. Notes for vehicle annual inspection: Prepare all necessary documents, such as the annual inspection application form, which must bear the seal of the transportation department, company seal or personal signature, and a copy of the ID card, and must include the body chassis and engine's steel seal imprint. Additionally, bring the vehicle registration certificate and insurance policy. Any violation records must be resolved; otherwise, the inspection will not be processed.
I just got my car less than a year ago and specifically looked into this. Indeed, new cars don’t need to collect the annual inspection decal in the first year. Currently, private passenger vehicles enjoy a 6-year exemption from inspection, but this exemption refers to being exempt from on-site testing, not completely ignoring it. You’ll need to apply for the inspection compliance decal in the 2nd and 4th years, so the first year is completely worry-free. However, when buying insurance, you should note that the compulsory traffic insurance decal has been changed to an electronic version, but the policy date still needs to be confirmed. Also, it’s recommended to download the Traffic Management 12123 app, which will remind you of the next inspection time to avoid missing it. By the way, owners who have modified their car’s appearance should be especially careful, as illegal modifications may cause issues during the annual inspection.
I've been in the automotive service industry for over a decade. For new vehicles in their first year, there's no need to collect the annual inspection sticker at all. The policies have been significantly relaxed now - for private passenger vehicles with 6 seats or fewer, there are only three key moments in the first 6 years: collect the inspection-exempt sticker in the second year, collect it again in the fourth year, and only in the sixth year does the vehicle need to undergo an on-site inspection. But don't think the first year is completely worry-free - you should check critical components like lights and brakes every two months. Last week I encountered an owner who didn't notice water in their headlights and almost had an accident while driving at night. Also, keep track of the first maintenance schedule - remember to get service around 5,000 km, as loose chassis bolts are also a common issue.
