Is it permissible not to display the annual inspection sticker?
3 Answers
In 2020, electronic inspection labels were comprehensively promoted to replace paper-based annual inspection compliance stickers. Electronic inspection labels hold the same legal validity as their paper counterparts. In provinces and cities where electronic annual inspection labels have been implemented, displaying the physical compliance sticker is no longer mandatory. Here are the relevant details: 1. Regions without electronic label implementation: Areas that haven't adopted electronic inspection labels must continue displaying the physical compliance sticker. 2. Penalties for non-display: According to Article 13 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law": Motor vehicle inspection compliance labels and insurance labels should be affixed to the upper right corner of the vehicle's front windshield. Failure to display these vehicle labels as required constitutes a violation. Not displaying the annual inspection sticker may result in a 1-point deduction and a 20 yuan fine, while placing it on the dashboard could incur a 100 yuan penalty.
Last year after the vehicle inspection, I was too busy and forgot to affix the annual inspection sticker. As a result, I got caught by traffic police right after hitting the road and was fined 200 yuan. This experience was truly frustrating. The law requires the sticker to be placed on the upper right corner of the front windshield for easy identification of compliance by officers. Failure to display it constitutes a traffic violation, punishable by fines at minimum, or even penalty points that could affect insurance premiums. Especially for new drivers, cutting corners by placing it askew or not at all can invite trouble. My advice is to affix it immediately after inspection, using double-sided tape to secure it in place and prevent it from falling off. In this digital age, some major cities have phased out paper stickers in favor of mobile app credentials, but always check local policies first to avoid mistakes. Safety comes first—this small act of compliance ensures worry-free driving.
Having driven for decades, the annual inspection sticker must be firmly affixed. If not displayed, getting caught could result in a fine of at least 200 yuan, and possibly a 1-point deduction that may increase your car insurance costs. Traffic police on patrol often check for this sticker, and if missing, they may pull you over for inspection, potentially leading to other issues. Electronic stickers are gradually being introduced, with some cities no longer requiring physical stickers but mandating proper electronic records. Regular annual inspections ensure safety compliance for brakes, lights, etc., and displaying the sticker is a basic rule to follow—don’t skip it. Among car owners, there are frequent cases of oversight leading to fines, so affix it early to avoid extra costs and hassle.
