
Motor vehicle inspection cycles vary depending on the situation: 1. Non-operational small passenger vehicles: Inspection every two years for the first 6 years, then annually from the 7th to the 15th year; 2. Non-operational medium and large passenger vehicles and trucks: Annual inspection for the first 10 years, then every six months from the 11th year; 3. Operational vehicles: Annual inspection for the first 5 years, then every six months from the 6th year; 4. Motorcycles: Inspection every two years for the first 4 years, then annually from the 5th year. Preparation required before motor vehicle inspection includes: 1. Checking the insurance policy for any errors; 2. Clearing traffic violations at the traffic department; 3. Fire extinguisher and parking sign.

The annual inspection cycle for private cars varies significantly now. For new cars within the first six years, there's no need for an on-site inspection at all. Owners only need to apply for the inspection exemption mark every two years directly through the Traffic Management 12123 APP. For cars between six to ten years old, an on-site inspection is required every two years, with the eighth-year inspection still being an online procedure without the need for a physical check. After ten years, you'll have to queue up at the inspection station for an annual check. However, if you're driving a minivan or a commercial vehicle, the rules are entirely different—these vehicles require an annual inspection from the start, even if they're new. Remember, you can schedule an inspection up to three months in advance, and many inspection stations are open on Saturdays, so picking a less busy time can save you from long queues.

Last year, I finally understood the rules when I helped my family's eight-year-old car go through the annual inspection. For regular family cars like ours, it's such a relief not to have to go through the physical inspection within the first six years—just a few taps on the phone to get the inspection sticker. By the eighth year, though, you have to take it to the inspection station for checks like emissions and lights. The inspector mentioned that motorcycles actually need to go through the physical inspection every year, and cars with flashy wraps or modified exhausts are the most likely to fail. A reminder to everyone: check the regulations before modifying your car, and make sure to get the modifications registered to avoid wasting your effort.

Vehicle inspection may not be as complicated as it seems. Currently, passenger cars are basically divided into three phases: exempt from inspection within six years (only requiring label application), one on-site inspection in the eighth year within ten years, and annual inspections after ten years. Commercial vehicles, pickup trucks, and vans must undergo inspection even if driven for just one year. Remember to bring the vehicle license and compulsory traffic insurance policy, and ensure all traffic violations are settled before going. On-site inspections mainly check brakes, lights, exhaust emissions, etc. Vehicles modified with xenon lights or suspension systems will fail. Inspection standards are now unified nationwide, allowing inspections to be conducted in different locations.


