Is the vehicle inspection exemption sticker required to be obtained every two years?
2 Answers
The inspection exemption sticker is obtained every two years. Even for exempted vehicles, maintenance should not be neglected. Exterior damage: Minor scratches and dings are inevitable in daily car use. Many owners leave small damages untreated for various reasons, which usually don't affect the inspection. However, more severe damage might make it harder to pass the exterior inspection. Triangular window tinting: According to regulations, window tinting generally doesn't affect the inspection. However, the triangular window area near the front side windows must remain untinted to maintain proper visibility for the driver to observe side mirrors. If this area is tinted, the vehicle will fail inspection. For vehicles without triangular windows, sufficient untinted area must be reserved. Exterior appearance differing from photo: Any modification that makes the vehicle look different from the photo in the registration certificate is considered an exterior alteration. Don't worry if factory emblems fall off naturally - regulations clearly state this won't affect inspection, as long as no additional emblems are added.
I've been driving for over ten years, and I remember that new cars have a six-year exemption period after purchase, during which you do need to apply for an exemption sticker every two years. Last year, I did it on my phone through the Traffic Management 12123 app—just uploaded photos of my vehicle registration and the owner's ID card, filled out a simple application, and that was it. After the system automatically reviewed it, the sticker was delivered to my home by courier, and I just had to stick it on the car window. If you don’t get it on time, you could be fined 100 to 200 yuan for an expired inspection sticker, and you might even get penalty points. Also, this policy only applies to non-commercial passenger vehicles; trucks and modified vehicles aren’t eligible. My advice is to check the app reminders at the start of each year and set an alarm so you don’t miss it. Technology makes things so much easier now—no need to queue up at the DMV.
