
The new regulations for vehicle annual inspection in Xi'an in 2021 include expanding the scope of exempted inspections, allowing online annual inspection for exempted vehicles, and requiring biennial inspections for vehicles over 6 years but under 10 years old. Here are the specific details: Expanding the scope of exempted inspections: On the basis of exempting non-operational mini and small passenger vehicles with 6 seats or less within 6 years from inspection, the exemption now also covers non-operational mini and small passenger vehicles with 7 to 9 seats (excluding minivans) within 6 years. Online annual inspection for exempted vehicles: Vehicle owners can apply for the electronic certificate of the motor vehicle inspection mark online through the Internet traffic safety comprehensive service platform or the "Traffic Management 12123" mobile app without leaving home. Biennial inspection: For non-operational mini and small passenger vehicles (excluding minivans) over 6 years but under 10 years old, the inspection frequency has been adjusted from once a year to once every two years. However, if the vehicle is involved in a traffic accident causing casualties or is illegally modified and penalized, it will still be inspected according to the original inspection cycle.

I just had my private car's annual inspection done in Xi'an last year. The 2021 new regulations are quite considerate: small vehicles are exempt from inspection for the first six years, only requiring online application for inspection stickers every two years via the Traffic Management 12123 App, completely free of charge. For vehicles over six years old, the first inspection is exempt from on-site testing, followed by inspections every two years, and annual inspections after ten years. This saves a lot of time compared to before and avoids the hassle of visiting inspection stations. The app operation is super simple, just a few steps to complete, and you can also check for vehicle violation records incidentally. As an ordinary car owner, I think this is very user-friendly for working professionals, as weekends are no longer taken up by inspections, allowing more time to spend with family. Xi'an now implements the National VI emission standards, making inspections stricter, but it's beneficial for the environment. Overall, the new regulations make life more convenient, and I recommend everyone to pay more attention to app notifications.

According to the 2021 Xi'an annual inspection regulations, the key change is that small and micro private vehicles are exempt from on-site inspections within six years, requiring only online application for compliance labels every two years. Vehicles aged six to ten years must undergo inspection every two years, while those over ten years require annual inspections. Here are the key takeaways: Prioritize using mobile apps like Traffic Management 12123 for certification—simply upload your ID and vehicle license to avoid wasting half a day at physical stations. Environmental requirements have been tightened with stricter China VI emission tests, but newly purchased China VI-compliant vehicles won’t face issues. Costs have also dropped, with purely online processes being free. As a frequent long-distance driver, I recommend checking your vehicle’s condition in advance, such as the exhaust system and brakes, to ensure a smooth pass. Xi'an inspection stations also support out-of-town annual checks, making it convenient for non-local plate owners. Don’t forget to complete it on time—delays incur fines, with detailed rules available on the official website.


