What are the inspection periods and frequencies for vehicles?
3 Answers
Different types of vehicles have different inspection periods and frequencies. The specific categories are as follows: Passenger vehicles: For operational passenger vehicles, inspections are required once every year within the first 5 years, and once every 6 months after exceeding 5 years. Freight vehicles: For freight vehicles and large or medium-sized non-operational passenger vehicles, inspections are required once every year within the first 10 years, and once every 6 months after exceeding 10 years. Non-operational passenger vehicles: For small and mini non-operational passenger vehicles, inspections are required once every 2 years within the first 6 years, once every year after exceeding 6 years, and once every 6 months after exceeding 15 years. Motorcycles: For motorcycles, inspections are required once every 2 years within the first 4 years, and once every year after exceeding 4 years. Tractors and other motor vehicles: Tractors and other motor vehicles require inspections once every year. Operational motor vehicles that pass the safety technical inspection within the specified inspection period do not need to undergo repeated safety technical inspections.
I've been driving for over a decade and know the vehicle inspection process well. For a new car, you don't need to worry about annual inspections for the first six years—just visit the traffic management office every two years for an exemption procedure. After six years up to the tenth year, the car requires a biennial on-site inspection to check brakes, emissions, etc. Once the vehicle exceeds ten years of age, it must undergo an annual inspection at the testing station. For cars over fifteen years old, it's even more frequent—they need inspection every six months. Inspection frequency increases with vehicle age: new cars start hassle-free but require more attention as they age. The key is to book appointments in advance to avoid peak-hour queues, saving both time and money. Regular maintenance like checking lights and tires can prevent unexpected issues during inspections.
As a new driver who just got my license, I've checked the vehicle inspection rules. New cars don't need inspection in the first year, then require on-site testing in the 6th and 10th years. After that, from 10 to 15 years old, annual inspections are needed. For vehicles over 15 years old, inspections are required every six months. This means inspection frequency depends on the vehicle's age - new cars have fewer inspections in the first decade. I suggest keeping a small notebook to track inspection dates to avoid penalties for missing deadlines. Proper maintenance helps pass inspections smoothly without repeated visits. The cost is usually around 100-200 RMB per inspection, which is cheaper than repairs. For safety, inspections are truly important, especially for brakes and emissions, to prevent accidents.
