Tips for Annual Vehicle Examination

Car owners may not know when they need to get a vehicle inspection or how to apply for one. To make it easier for everyone, we've compiled some useful information about vehicle annual vehicle examination to assist you!

1. Types of Vehicles that Require Annual Vehicle Examination

   Private Cars: If manufactured six years or more before the registration date, they must be inspected before renewing the license.

   Light Vans: Similarly, any light van (total weight ≤ 1.9 tons) that is six years or older also requires annual inspection.

   Commercial Vehicles: This includes taxis, minibuses, buses, heavy trucks, and trailers, all of which fall under the annual inspection requirement.

   
   

2. When to Book an Annual Vehicle Examination

   • You can book up to four months before the license expires.

   • If you need to change your appointment, you generally must do so at least 14 days before the scheduled date.

     
     

3. How to Make an Appointment

   • You can book online or visit/call a government vehicle inspection center or a designated vehicle testing center.

     
     

4. Preparation and Required Documents

   • For online payment: Provide a credit card (Visa/MasterCard) or payment details and complete authentication.

   • On the inspection day, take the appointment confirmation, vehicle registration documents (original or certified copy), sufficient fuel, and ensure the vehicle is clean.

     
     

5. Costs

   • Private car first inspection: HK$585; reinspection within 14 days: HK$180.

   • Light van first inspection: HK$695; reinspection: HK$230.

   • Costs for commercial vehicles depend on their category and use, as per the Transport Department's website.

     
     

6. Inspection Locations

   • Private cars and light vans can go to designated vehicle testing centers.

   • All other commercial vehicles are inspected at government vehicle inspection centers.

     
     

7. Inspection Process

   1. Check in on arrival (early arrival recommended, 15 minutes prior).

   2. Show documents and appointment confirmation to start the inspection, which includes checking exterior, VIN, mechanical condition, brakes, lights, and emissions (for diesel vehicles/smoke opacity).

   3. If passed, you will receive a certificate or sticker on the spot.

   4. If failed, you will receive a defect report/repair notification and can re-inspect within 14 days.

      
      

8. Consequences of Not Re-Inspecting Within 14 Days

   • If you miss the 14-day window, you will need to pay the full inspection fee again.

   • After passing, you will receive a certificate valid for four months, during which you must renew your license.

     
     

9. Helpful Tips

   • It's advisable to do a pre-check before the annual inspection, including oil levels, lights, tire tread depth, seat belts, brakes, and emissions.

   • Use compliant modification parts.

     
     

DCH's Car Testing Centres are designated by the Transport Department and are located throughout Hong Kong, Kowloon, and the New Territories, providing trustworthy and transparent inspection services.

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