What to Do If Vehicle Annual Inspection Expires?
3 Answers
Driving without an overdue annual inspection is not allowed. If caught by traffic police on the spot, you will be penalized with a deduction of 3 points and a fine of 200 yuan. Here is relevant information about vehicle annual inspection expiration: 1. How Long Can a Vehicle Annual Inspection Be Overdue: According to relevant laws and regulations, the owner of a motor vehicle must apply for an inspection compliance mark at the vehicle registration authority within three months after the expiration of the motor vehicle inspection validity period. 2. Vehicle Annual Inspection Regulations: (1) Passenger vehicles for operational use must be inspected once a year within 5 years; after 5 years, every 6 months; (2) Trucks and large or medium-sized non-operational passenger vehicles must be inspected once a year within 10 years; after 10 years, every 6 months; (3) Small and mini non-operational passenger vehicles must be inspected once every 2 years within 6 years; after 6 years, once a year; after 15 years, every 6 months.
I just realized my car's annual inspection is overdue by a few days, and I panicked immediately. This definitely needs to be handled right away—no delays. Friends told me driving with an expired inspection could lead to traffic police fines starting from 100 RMB, and the longer it's overdue, the worse it gets, possibly resulting in points deducted or even vehicle impoundment. Insurance might also be void during this period, meaning no coverage in case of an accident. The first step is to quickly schedule a make-up inspection at the local DMV or an authorized testing station, bringing along the vehicle registration, ID, and insurance documents. They'll check safety items like lights and brakes, and if everything passes, they'll stamp it. If the car has any issues, get them fixed before the inspection to avoid a wasted trip. I suggest setting a phone reminder to schedule the inspection half a month early next time—saving both money and stress. Delaying this kind of thing just adds more risk.
I have some experience with overdue vehicle inspections last year, so I'll share a bit. Generally, don't panic when you discover it—first confirm the exact overdue date, as handling differs if it's over three months. Immediately check online for nearby inspection stations to schedule a make-up appointment, and bring basic documents like the vehicle license and insurance papers. Staff usually test exhaust emissions and braking performance—passing is straightforward, but you'll need to pay a late fine. Last time I was a week late and got fined 50 yuan, a small lesson. Driving an overdue vehicle is too risky—getting caught and fined is minor, but insurance refusal would be the real trouble. I recommend developing a habit of tracking inspection dates. By the way, some places now allow handling electronic procedures via mobile apps, which is much more convenient.
