What types of decals should be affixed to a new car?
2 Answers
New cars require the following decals: the motor vehicle inspection compliance label, the environmental protection inspection compliance label, and the compulsory traffic insurance label. Currently, the environmental protection inspection compliance label has been abolished and merged with the motor vehicle inspection compliance label. In some regions (e.g., Beijing), the compulsory insurance label has also been abolished and replaced with an electronic policy. Therefore, in these areas, new cars only need to display the inspection compliance label. In most regions, the motor vehicle inspection compliance label and the compulsory traffic insurance label are required. The motor vehicle inspection compliance label and the insurance label should be affixed to the upper right corner of the front windshield. It is recommended to use an electrostatic sticker for the annual inspection label, which can be applied horizontally or vertically. However, attention should be paid to the front and back sides—the back of the inspection label should adhere to the electrostatic sticker, while the front should face the glass. When applying, ensure it is as flat as possible, squeeze out any air bubbles, and avoid peeling off.
Back when I first bought my new car, I had to stick at least three types of decals on the windshield: the annual inspection sticker, the compulsory traffic insurance sticker, and the environmental protection sticker. I always made sure to attach them carefully, afraid of any issues. But now things have become simpler. The compulsory traffic insurance sticker has gone digital nationwide, and since 2020, it no longer needs to be displayed. The environmental protection sticker was also abolished as early as 2017. For new cars, the main remaining requirement might be the paper version of the annual inspection sticker. When I bought my car last month, the 4S dealership gave me one and told me to stick it in the upper left corner. I’d advise new car owners to check their local DMV notices—some cities, like mine, are piloting digital annual inspection stickers that can be displayed on your phone. Remember, properly displaying these decals isn’t just about avoiding fines; it’s also about driving safely with peace of mind. Don’t be like me—I once forgot to display one and got fined, which delayed my work and was really annoying.
