What happens if a motorcycle hasn't been inspected for 10 years?
2 Answers
A motorcycle that hasn't been inspected for 10 years will be automatically deregistered. Motorcycle inspection cycle: Starting from June 1, 2019, motorcycles nationwide can be inspected anywhere in China and are exempt from inspection for the first 6 years. For vehicles registered after June 1, 2017, they can enjoy the exemption policy for 3 inspections. For motorcycles registered between June 1, 2015, and May 31, 2017, since they have already been inspected once, they can enjoy the exemption policy for 2 inspections. Motorcycle inspection process: Apply for the inspection compliance mark at the vehicle registration office within three months before the expiration of the current inspection period. The vehicle registration office should confirm the vehicle, review the submitted documents and certificates, and issue the inspection compliance mark within one day of acceptance.
Back in my younger days, I bought a motorcycle and left it untouched for a full decade without annual inspections. Now that I want to ride it again, I’ve discovered a mountain of issues! First, I was stopped by traffic police and fined 500 yuan because the license plate showed no record of inspection. Even worse, the insurance had expired—meaning if an accident happened, I’d be paying out of pocket. The bike itself was in rough shape: the fuel tank was rusted, clogging the fuel lines; the tires were cracked and leaking air; and it wouldn’t even start. Riding it in this condition would be downright dangerous—no working lights for night visibility, and the brakes were unreliable. My advice to fellow riders: don’t procrastinate. Spend the time getting your brakes, lights, and emissions checked at the inspection station on schedule—it’s safer and saves money long-term. Always keep track of annual inspection deadlines, and if you lose the reminder, visit the DMV to reapply to avoid bigger headaches later.
