What to Do If the Annual Inspection Sticker Is Accidentally Torn?
3 Answers
The torn annual inspection sticker can be replaced. The vehicle owner should bring the original and photocopy of their ID card, the original and photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate to the local vehicle management office for replacement. They need to fill out an application form for the replacement of the annual inspection sticker, pay the service fee, and then they can reattach the new annual inspection sticker. Here is a detailed introduction to the vehicle annual inspection: Meaning of Annual Inspection: Vehicle annual inspection refers to a mandatory test for all vehicles that have obtained official license plates and registration certificates. It is equivalent to an annual physical examination for the vehicle according to the "Technical Conditions for Motor Vehicle Operation Safety." Exemption Policy: The 6-year exemption from inspection for non-commercial small private passenger vehicles with 7 seats or fewer (including 7 seats) means that the vehicle is exempt from on-site inspection. However, the owner still needs to have the exhaust emissions tested and pass within the specified period (usually 2 years), then apply for the inspection exemption mark at the vehicle management office, vehicle registration service station, or traffic police substation, and affix it to the upper right corner of the vehicle's front windshield. Scope of Exemption Policy: The 6-year exemption from inspection for non-commercial passenger vehicles and other vehicles has been in trial implementation since September 1, 2014. Vehicles registered after September 1, 2012, can be exempt from inspection twice; vehicles registered between September 1, 2010, and August 31, 2012, can be exempt from inspection once; vehicles registered before August 31, 2010, are still subject to the original inspection regulations for annual review.
Last time my annual inspection sticker got accidentally torn with a big gash, which was really frustrating. I rummaged through the car's first aid kit and found a roll of transparent tape, carefully patching it along the tear. It held up surprisingly well—didn't peel off even after a month of driving. A reminder to everyone: don’t panic if it gets torn; try fixing it with household tape first—there are plenty of solutions. If it’s too damaged to stick properly, just visit the DMV for a replacement. Bring your ID and original vehicle registration, fill out an application, pay a small fee (usually tens of yuan), and you’ll get a new sticker on the spot. Never attempt to make or use a fake one—it’s illegal, dangerous, and could land you in serious trouble if caught by police. The annual inspection sticker is mandatory proof that your car meets safety standards, so keep it firmly attached and avoid unnecessary tugging.
I've experienced torn annual inspection stickers, and it's really not a big deal. Most people can just use some clear tape to stick it back, and if only a corner is torn, the repair can be quite durable. However, if the entire sticker is torn and illegible, it's best to visit the vehicle management office for a replacement. Bring all necessary documents, including your ID, vehicle license, and a copy of the annual inspection report to explain the situation. They will handle it quickly with a small fee. Don't delay too long; if you're stopped on the road, explaining usually gets you through, but you'll need to prove the inspection is valid. Remember to be gentle when applying the sticker and avoid tearing it off too forcefully. Annual inspections are for everyone's safety, so repair torn stickers promptly and keep some tape in your car for emergencies.
