Is it no longer necessary to display the annual inspection sticker?
3 Answers
Annual inspection stickers must be displayed. Penalties for not displaying the annual inspection sticker are as follows: 1. According to Article 95 of the 'Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China,' driving a motor vehicle without displaying the inspection compliance sticker will result in a fine and a deduction of 1 point. In severe cases, the traffic management department of the public security organ shall detain the motor vehicle and notify the party to provide the corresponding license, sticker, or complete the necessary procedures. 2. Note: For vehicle owners who have obtained the electronic annual inspection sticker, the electronic sticker has the same effect as the paper sticker. Presenting the electronic annual inspection sticker during a traffic police inspection is sufficient.
Last time I went for the annual vehicle inspection, I asked and found out clearly that many cities now no longer require the physical inspection stickers, as they've adopted electronic markers. Once your car passes the inspection, the system automatically records it in the traffic management database. Police can check the compliance status electronically with their devices. This brings many benefits: no more hassle of sticking the decal, clearer windshield without obstructing the view, and it's more environmentally friendly by reducing waste. However, some rural areas might not have fully caught up yet, so it's best to download the 12123 app or check the local government website to confirm the policy. With over a decade of driving experience, I really welcome this reform—it makes life more convenient and safer. Before, the sticker would block the view and always made me uneasy, but now it's much more reassuring, and saving some money is always good.
As an automotive policy observer, I've noticed significant changes in recent years, with the widespread adoption of electronic annual inspection decals. Regulations have been simplified, and physical stickers are largely phased out. Once your vehicle passes inspection, the information is stored in the system. During roadside checks, authorities only need to scan your license plate for verification, eliminating the hassle of manual updates and old sticker removal. I recommend car owners regularly check their status via the traffic management app, which sends renewal reminders before expiration. Technological advancements bring increasing convenience, making driving feel more effortless and allowing better focus on road conditions. But the core principle remains: never neglect timely inspections just because there's no physical sticker—safety should always come first.
