Is the Annual Inspection Sticker Replaced Every Year?
2 Answers
Annual inspection stickers are not replaced every year. New vehicles are exempt from annual inspections for the first 6 years, but it is necessary to collect and replace the annual inspection sticker and environmental protection sticker on the vehicle every two years. The validity period of the motor vehicle annual inspection can be referred to on the vehicle license or the compliance sticker. The process of vehicle annual inspection is as follows: Form Filling and Entry: Fill out two forms: the Motor Vehicle License Application Form and the Motor Vehicle Inspection Record Form. Go to the annual inspection entry window to have the materials reviewed and entered. Then, proceed to the violation inquiry window to pay any outstanding fines if there are violations. Vehicle Inspection: Find an inspector for the vehicle's external inspection. The inspector will ask to open the front hood and verify the vehicle identification number (VIN). After the inspection, the inspector will provide a signed inspection approval page. Next, go to the inspection payment window to receive an invoice. Proceed to the inspection login window and leave all materials there. Wait in line for the inspection. After the inspection is completed, you will receive an inspection report. Submit the annual inspection materials to the staff. If the vehicle passes the inspection, the annual inspection sticker will be issued.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I can tell you that the annual inspection sticker is indeed replaced almost every year, but there's an exception for new cars in their first six years. During that period, you can apply for a biennial exemption sticker online without needing an on-site inspection. For cars over ten years old, I have to visit the inspection station every year to check components like lights and brakes. If they fail, repairs are necessary before getting a new sticker. The sticker should be firmly placed in the upper right corner of the windshield to prevent it from falling off due to wind or rain. The main reason for this is to ensure road safety, as issues like excessive exhaust emissions or faulty lights can be detected, preventing accidents. I’ve made it a habit to set a phone reminder each year to handle it on time—delaying can lead to fines and penalty points if caught by the police, which is a hassle. New car owners shouldn’t take it lightly either; understanding policy details is crucial. Nowadays, some procedures can be handled via apps, saving time and effort.
