What are the required labels to be affixed on a new car?
4 Answers
New cars require the following labels to be affixed on the front windshield: 1. Compulsory Traffic Insurance Label: According to regulations, the compulsory traffic insurance label must be affixed to the upper right corner of the front windshield. Before affixing the label, clean the upper right corner of the windshield with water or alcohol to ensure the label adheres firmly. 2. Annual Vehicle Inspection Label: The annual vehicle inspection refers to the yearly examination of vehicles that have already obtained official license plates and registration certificates, conducted in accordance with the "Technical Conditions for Motor Vehicle Operation Safety." 3. Probationary Driver Label: Drivers who have held their license for less than one year are also required to affix a probationary driver label on the rear of the vehicle.
I just got my new car last year and was super excited, but as soon as I hit the road, my friend reminded me that I needed to put up several stickers. The most important one is the auto insurance sticker, which relates to compulsory traffic insurance and must be placed on the upper right corner of the windshield—otherwise, you'll get fined during traffic checks. Next is the vehicle inspection sticker, the label you get after the annual inspection to prove your car is safe and hazard-free; I go to the inspection station every other year to get a new one. In some cities like Beijing or Shanghai, you might also need an emissions sticker to address exhaust pollution, depending on local regulations. These stickers aren’t just for show—they ensure you’re driving legally and protect your safety. For new car owners like me, I recommend handling insurance and the first inspection right after picking up the car to avoid fines or lacking proof in case of an accident. I usually have the 4S dealership or insurance company handle it for me—it’s hassle-free and safe.
From my experience, attaching vehicle decals is something that must be taken seriously regarding safety regulations. The insurance decal is absolutely the top priority—it ensures you have coverage in case of accidents. It's best to get it processed with your insurance company on the day you pick up the car and then place it in a visible spot on the front windshield. Next is the vehicle inspection sticker. New cars may be exempt from inspection for the first few years, but once the exemption period ends, you'll need to pass an inspection before affixing it. Some regions may also require an environmental decal related to emissions standards. Attaching these decals not only helps avoid fines but also prevents potential risks—for example, if an expired inspection sticker is discovered during a check, it could affect your insurance claim. I make it a habit to regularly check the expiration dates and set reminders on my phone. If an old decal becomes illegible or damaged, I replace it promptly. Don’t underestimate these small details—they can save lives and money when it matters most.
There are two main decals required for new vehicles: one is the compulsory insurance decal, provided by the insurance company, indicating the validity period of the auto insurance; the other is the inspection compliance decal, which is the sticker obtained after passing the annual inspection. The insurance decal must be promptly affixed, otherwise driving without it may result in a fine, and it should be renewed annually with insurance updates. The inspection decal can only be used after the vehicle passes the inspection, and it is typically placed in a corner of the windshield. Remember these details and routinely check for any damage.
