What to Do If Your Vehicle's Annual Inspection Has Expired?
2 Answers
After a vehicle's annual inspection expires, it cannot be driven on the road. You need to go to the inspection station designated by the vehicle management office as soon as possible for the annual review. If you fail to complete the annual review in time and are caught by traffic police, you may face severe penalties such as point deductions, fines, and vehicle impoundment. If the annual inspection is overdue for more than a month, the vehicle will enter a 'delinquent inspection' period. To proceed with the annual inspection, you must first pay the fine to lift the delinquent status. Normally, vehicles can undergo the annual inspection within three months before the expiration date. The specific expiration date can be found on the supplementary page of the vehicle's registration certificate. Documents required for vehicle annual inspection: You need to bring the original vehicle registration certificate and a printed copy of the compulsory traffic insurance policy. In regions where electronic policies are implemented, you can simply provide the electronic policy number. Additionally, bring the vehicle and vessel tax payment receipt. If the vehicle and vessel tax is paid through the compulsory traffic insurance, only the insurance policy is required. Both the compulsory traffic insurance and vehicle and vessel tax must be within their validity periods. Also, bring your original ID card (not the vehicle owner's ID). Preparations for vehicle annual inspection: Start preparing for the annual inspection within three months before the expiration date. Refer to the supplementary page of the registration certificate for the exact date. For example, if the expiration date is December 31, you can schedule the inspection between September 31 and December 31. Before the inspection, ensure all traffic violation records are resolved. If there are any outstanding violations, settle them first—either at the vehicle management office or elsewhere—before proceeding with the annual inspection.
I've experienced vehicle annual inspection expiration a few times, and it's quite troublesome. First, never drive on the road because the police may stop and fine you, and insurance may become invalid. If an accident occurs, no one will compensate. Immediately find a nearby vehicle inspection station or DMV to schedule a re-inspection. Some places allow online appointments to save time. Remember to bring your vehicle license and ID card. The process usually takes two or three days. Pay an overdue fine, typically a few hundred yuan, depending on local regulations. After passing the re-inspection to ensure the vehicle's safety, you can continue using it. I recommend setting a phone calendar reminder in the future and preparing one month in advance to avoid delays. Safety first! If delayed too long, the vehicle might even be towed.
