Is the 6th Year Vehicle Inspection Required to Go Through the Testing Line?
4 Answers
For the 6th year vehicle inspection, it is required to go through the testing line. Below is the relevant information: 1. The six-year exemption from inspection refers to non-commercial passenger vehicles and other small and mini passenger cars (excluding minivans and vehicles with 7 or more seats), which are exempt from on-site testing within the first six years. 2. However, the vehicle owner needs to regularly apply for the annual inspection sticker. In the second and fourth years after purchasing a new car, the owner must bring the vehicle registration certificate and a valid compulsory traffic insurance policy to the vehicle management office to apply for the inspection sticker. Alternatively, they can apply for the annual inspection sticker online and choose to have it delivered by courier. 3. Before the 6th year inspection expires, the vehicle owner needs to take the vehicle to the testing station for on-site testing. After passing the inspection, they can receive the annual inspection sticker. The traffic police department reminds that if the vehicle fails to obtain the inspection sticker within three consecutive inspection cycles after the inspection validity period expires, the vehicle will be subject to mandatory scrapping.
I just started driving last year, but I've done quite a bit of research on these annual inspection rules. Indeed, vehicles in their sixth year require an on-site inspection, unlike the first six years when you could just apply for the exemption mark online. When my own car was approaching its sixth year, I specifically checked the regulations and even consulted friends: because vehicles age faster at this stage, the inspection stations will check safety items like brakes, lights, and emissions. Booking an appointment is very convenient now—you can do it through an app—just remember to bring your vehicle license and insurance documents. I recommend checking your tire wear beforehand; otherwise, failing the inspection means spending extra time on a recheck. The key is to get it done on time, or you might face fines and penalty points if caught, which can be quite troublesome. In short, safety comes first—don’t cut corners or delay until problems arise. Just visit a proper inspection center, and you’ll be fine.
Our family owns several cars, and we always pay attention to annual inspections for family safety. The sixth year is mandatory for on-site testing because new cars are exempt from inspection lines for the first six years, but the sixth year marks the start of formal checks. I’ve experienced it myself and believe the focus should be on preventing potential vehicle hazards, such as engine issues or chassis rust. An inspection costs a few hundred yuan, but early detection and repair are always better than spending money after an accident. I recommend choosing a reputable inspection station and changing the engine oil in advance to avoid retesting. Timely inspections also help avoid the hassle of overdue penalties, making life easier and more convenient.
I usually prefer using mobile apps to manage car-related matters. As for vehicle inspection, simply put: the sixth year definitely requires an on-site inspection. New cars are exempt from on-site inspections for the first six years and can directly apply for the inspection sticker, but the policy changes in the sixth year, requiring an actual performance test of the vehicle. Don't delay, as prolonged delays may result in penalty points. The process is quick, usually taking about half an hour. Just bring the necessary documents and make an appointment in advance.
