Is the Annual Inspection Sticker Still Required to be Displayed?
2 Answers
Vehicles are still required to display the annual inspection sticker. Currently, the annual vehicle inspection and environmental protection test stickers have been combined into one. As long as the vehicle passes the annual inspection, there is no need to obtain a separate environmental protection sticker. The vehicle only needs to display the inspection compliance sticker and the compulsory insurance sticker. The annual inspection sticker must be displayed; otherwise, the vehicle may be subject to random checks, fines, or even impoundment. For vehicles within six years of age, the annual inspection sticker must be applied for every two years at the vehicle management office, or it can be applied for online. Vehicles older than six years must obtain the sticker after each annual inspection, while vehicles older than 15 years must undergo inspections every six months to ensure they meet roadworthiness standards. The inspection sticker mounting device involves affixing the annual inspection sticker to a transparent plastic carrier, which is then secured to the windshield with a clip.
I see there have been significant changes regarding the display of vehicle annual inspection stickers. In earlier years, it was mandatory to affix them on the windshield, otherwise traffic police would issue fines if caught. However, many cities now implement electronic annual inspections, such as Beijing and Shanghai, where records can be checked via mobile phones, eliminating the need for those annoying paper stickers. The benefits include avoiding obstructed views for safety and being more environmentally friendly by saving resources. That said, some small towns or older vehicles might still require physical stickers, so I recommend car owners check their local traffic management apps or official websites to confirm the latest policies. Most importantly, ensure the annual inspection itself is valid and don't skip regular vehicle condition checks to prevent issues like brake or light failures that could cause bigger problems. Saving a little hassle now might lead to major troubles later.
