What are the new regulations for small truck annual inspections in 2021?
2 Answers
In 2021, for non-operational small and mini passenger vehicles (excluding minivans) older than 6 years but less than 10 years, the inspection frequency has been adjusted from once per year to once every two years. Vehicles will undergo on-site testing during their 6th and 8th years. For private vehicles older than 10 years, the original inspection cycle remains unchanged: annual inspections for vehicles aged 10-15 years, and semi-annual inspections for vehicles over 15 years. Below is an introduction to vehicle annual inspection requirements: Operational passenger vehicles: annual inspection for vehicles under 5 years; semi-annual inspections for vehicles over 5 years. Trucks and large/medium non-operational passenger vehicles: annual inspection for vehicles under 10 years; semi-annual inspections for vehicles over 10 years. Small/mini non-operational passenger vehicles: biennial inspection for vehicles under 6 years; annual inspection for vehicles over 6 years; semi-annual inspections for vehicles over 15 years. Motorcycles: biennial inspection for vehicles under 4 years; annual inspection for vehicles over 4 years. Tractors and other motor vehicles: annual inspection. Operational vehicles that pass safety inspections within the specified period won't require repeated inspections. Vehicles exceeding scrappage age: cannot be transferred (sold/purchased) but can continue to be used; transactions must first obtain a scrappage certificate (vehicle deregistration) from the DMV.
I've been driving a small truck for freight transport for over a decade, and the 2021 new regulations have indeed brought convenience. The biggest change is the extension of the inspection cycle. For our small freight trucks, the annual inspection has been changed to a biennial one, saving us a lot of legwork. The inspection items have also been simplified, such as exempting minor checks like wheel hub size, and focusing more on emissions, brakes, and safety systems. The costs have been reduced by about 20% as well. Last year when I went for inspection, it was much faster. The staff mentioned that the new regulations have strengthened environmental standards, especially requiring small trucks to meet the China VI emission level, and those that fail are more likely to be held up. These changes stem from the government's 'streamline administration, delegate power, and improve services' reform. I think it's good for us drivers—not only saving money but also allowing us to get back on the road to earn sooner. Also, a reminder to everyone: don’t slack on regular maintenance. Checking tire wear and excessive exhaust emissions beforehand can avoid rework during inspection.
