What to Do If You Forget the Annual Inspection for Your Private Car?
4 Answers
If you forget to have your vehicle inspected, you should not drive it on the road and should complete the annual inspection procedures as soon as possible. Driving with an expired inspection will result in 3 demerit points and a fine ranging from 20 to 200 yuan. The following situations may prevent the vehicle from passing the inspection: 1. Driving condition: The vehicle's condition does not match the records on the driving license or the vehicle file. 2. Markings: Failure to display the unit name and enlarged license plate numbers as required. 3. Equipment: Installation of alarms or indicator lights not in compliance with regulations. 4. Fees: Non-payment of road maintenance fees and insurance.
If I forget to have my private car inspected, I would immediately stop driving it and head straight to the local vehicle management office for a supplementary inspection. I would bring my vehicle license, ID card, and compulsory traffic insurance policy, fill out an application form upon arrival, and queue up for the inspection. Forgetting for just a few days might only result in a fine of around 200 yuan, but delaying for over a month could lead to additional fines, penalty points, and even affect insurance claims—for instance, the insurer might refuse to pay if an accident occurs. During the inspection, staff will check key components like lights and brakes to ensure safety compliance. Only after completing the supplementary inspection would I drive home. To avoid this, I usually set a phone alarm a month in advance or use the Traffic Management 12123 app for scheduled reminders. Skipping the annual inspection can lead to hidden dangers, such as brake failure or dim lights making it hard to see the road—handling it early saves both hassle and money. Getting caught by traffic police on the road would be even more troublesome, so don’t hesitate—go get it done.
I often get too busy with projects to remember the annual vehicle inspection. If I forget, I immediately open Alipay on my phone to book an online make-up inspection through the vehicle management service, avoiding long queues. Filling out forms and paying fines online usually costs around 300 yuan, and it's quick and efficient. During this period, it's best not to drive to avoid being checked, which could also affect insurance renewal or premium increases. At the same time, check the basic condition of the car, such as tire pressure and wipers, to ensure there are no issues before the make-up inspection. The inspection station will have technicians give your car a thorough check, and if it passes, they'll issue a new sticker. I usually set a calendar reminder or ask a friend to remind me to avoid forgetting again next time. The annual inspection isn't a hassle; it's mainly to keep the vehicle running properly. Safe driving is what matters most.
Once I almost forgot the annual inspection for my car. If I really missed it, I would stop using it for a few days and hurry to the nearest testing station to make it up. Bring the necessary documents and prepare some cash for the fine, which would cost at most a few hundred bucks to settle. The process isn’t complicated—just fill out a form and wait for the technician to check the chassis and exhaust system. Once it passes, they’ll stick on the label. Since I use the car to pick up my kids from school, safety is a must. Annual inspections help prevent hidden dangers like tire wear or brake failure. I stick a reminder note on my fridge at home and build a small habit, like checking at the start of each month. After the make-up inspection, I quickly test the lights to make sure everything’s working before hitting the road. Better to solve it early to avoid bigger hassles later.
