When is the first annual inspection for a new car?
3 Answers
New cars classified as non-commercial passenger vehicles are exempt from online annual inspections for the first six years, but a biennial inspection is still required to obtain the inspection decal. Exemption policy: According to Article 11 of the 'Opinions on Strengthening and Improving Motor Vehicle Inspection Work,' non-commercial passenger vehicles and other small and mini passenger vehicles (excluding vans and vehicles with 7 or more seats) are exempt from inspection for the first six years starting from September 1, 2014. Annual inspection precautions: Prepare all necessary documents, including the annual inspection application form, which must bear the traffic department's seal, company stamp, or personal signature along with a copy of the ID card, and must include the vehicle chassis and engine's stamped imprint. Additionally, bring the vehicle registration certificate and insurance policy. Any outstanding traffic violations must be settled, otherwise the inspection will not be processed.
I remember driving all these years, the first six years with a new car were such a breeze. The first real mandatory annual inspection was in the sixth year, meaning you only needed to drive the car to the inspection station and queue up for checks like lights and brakes then. For the first six years, the on-site inspection was waived, but in the second and fourth years, you had to apply online to renew the inspection sticker, like using the Traffic Management 12123 app to upload photos of the vehicle documents—done in five minutes without taking time off to drive around. Last year, in my new car’s second year, that’s exactly what I did. Before the sixth-year inspection, I’d recommend booking an appointment at the inspection site in advance, checking tire pressure, and making sure the emissions light isn’t on to avoid rework. Though the annual check is a hassle, it prevents road hazards—like my neighbor who delayed and got fined over 200 yuan.
Excited about buying your first new car? Me too! No need to worry too much about annual inspections in the first few years. Strictly speaking, the first on-site inspection comes in the sixth year. According to regulations, new cars are exempt from on-site inspections for the first six years. Before the sixth year, you only need to apply for the annual inspection sticker online or at the traffic management office every two years. For example, I get it done instantly using a mobile app. By the sixth year, you'll need to drive to an inspection station. Just book an appointment in advance and bring your vehicle license and insurance policy. The inspection items include headlight brightness and brake tests – don't stress, the whole process usually finishes within half a day. For regular maintenance, avoid illegal modifications like headlight upgrades to prevent inspection failures and ensure safe driving.
