Things to Note When Registering Your Car for the First Time

Car registration is a mandatory legal procedure for all motor vehicles, helping to ensure the safety and technical quality of vehicles when participating in traffic.

According to the World Bank's Global Road Safety Report (2024): “Regular vehicle inspection programs can reduce traffic accidents due to mechanical faults by up to 35% in developing countries.”

Vehicle inspection is not only an administrative procedure but also plays an important role in protecting the health and lives of road users and the living environment. Types of inspection include: Initial inspection, periodic inspection and re-inspection after repair.

According to the law on vehicle inspection, the vehicle owner needs to prepare the necessary documents, including documents proving vehicle ownership, insurance certificate, and vehicle registration. During the inspection process, the vehicle will be inspected for technical condition according to the standards of the inspection agency.

This process includes the following steps: Receiving documents, checking the vehicle according to safety and environmental protection standards, paying related fees and charges, and finally receiving the results and inspection certificate.

Registration fee will vary depending on the vehicle type, inspection location and other factors such as maintenance fees, quality inspection fees. Inspection period and cycle also depends on the vehicle type and regulations of the inspection agency.

Penalties for cars with expired registration can be quite severe, including fines and possible vehicle impoundment until re-inspection is completed. Therefore, vehicle owners need to research carefully to “avoid losing money unjustly”.

Understanding Car Registration Correctly

Vehicle inspection is the process of checking the technical and safety of a vehicle to ensure that it meets all standards for being on the road. This process is not only a legal requirement but also helps ensure traffic safety and environmental protection.

Vehicle inspection includes initial inspection for new vehicles, periodic inspection based on usage time, and re-inspection after major repairs. In addition, the law clearly stipulates the time limit and inspection cycle for each type of vehicle, helping vehicle owners to understand and comply to avoid violations.

1. Why do we need to register our cars?

Vehicle inspection is not only a legal requirement but also a way for vehicle owners to ensure their own safety and that of other road users. Regular vehicle inspections help detect technical problems early, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and protecting the environment from harmful emissions.

2. Types of vehicle inspection

Car inspections are divided into three main types, depending on the condition and age of the vehicle:

• First inspection: For newly purchased vehicles, ensuring that the vehicle meets technical standards before being granted a road license. This process checks everything from the engine, brake system to emissions.
• Periodic inspection: Applies to all vehicles after a period of use. The periodic time depends on the type of vehicle and current regulations, helping to ensure that the vehicle is still in good condition for circulation.
• Re-inspection after repair: When a vehicle has an accident or undergoes major repairs, it must be re-inspected to ensure technical safety before continuing to use.

3. Legal regulations on vehicle inspection

According to the new regulations in Decree No. 166/2024/ND-CP and Circular No. 47/2024/TT-BGTVT issued on November 15, 11, effective from January 2024, 01, car registration is adjusted as follows:

• First registration period:

Unused motor vehicles that have been issued a "Factory Quality Inspection Certificate" for domestically manufactured and assembled vehicles or a "Certificate of Technical Safety and Environmental Protection Quality for Imported Motor Vehicles" will be exempted from the first inspection.

• Periodic inspection cycle:

For passenger cars with up to 9 seats not used for transportation business: The second inspection is 24 months after the first. Subsequent inspections are 12 months apart.

For other types of vehicles, the inspection cycle is specifically regulated depending on the type of vehicle and its intended use. Vehicle owners should refer to the details in current legal documents to ensure compliance with regulations.

What to Prepare Before First Car Inspection?

Having all the paperwork ready and thoroughly inspecting the vehicle will help the inspection process go more smoothly. Bring your identification, vehicle documents, and any additional documents if requested. Also, inspect the exterior, interior, and engine to ensure the vehicle meets specifications.

1. Required documents

Preparing all the necessary documents not only saves you time but also avoids problems that may arise during the registration process.

• Vehicle ownership documents: Please bring valid identification documents such as CCCD or passport. This is required to prove that you are the vehicle owner.
• Vehicle documents: Make sure you have vehicle registration, compulsory liability insurance and a vehicle purchase invoice if this is your first inspection. These documents are the basis for verifying vehicle information.
• Additional documents (if required): Some special cases may require additional documents such as registration fee receipt or authorization document (if the vehicle is not in your name).

2. Check the vehicle condition before going for inspection

To get your car through the technical inspection process with ease, you need to thoroughly check the important parts.

• Exterior: Make sure headlights, taillights, and turn signals are working properly. Mirrors, tires, and license plates must be intact and free of damage or fading.
• Interior: Check the seat belts for smooth operation and the seats for damage. The air conditioning system should also be checked to ensure proper operation.
• Engine and mechanical systems: Pay special attention to the brakes, exhaust and suspension. These are the parts that are most often thoroughly inspected during the inspection process.

First Time Car Inspection Procedure

The initial vehicle inspection process begins with the receipt of the application, which includes the necessary documents such as vehicle registration and liability insurance. Next, the vehicle will be technically inspected to ensure safety factors, after which the owner will pay the fees and receive a valid inspection result.

1. Receiving documents

The first step in the inspection process is to prepare all the necessary documents. The vehicle owner must bring the vehicle registration (original or notarized copy), civil liability insurance certificate, and technical safety quality certificate (if any).

At the inspection center, staff will receive the application, check its validity and guide you through the next steps.

2. Vehicle inspection according to standards

Once the paperwork is completed, the vehicle will be taken to the technical inspection area. This process includes evaluating safety factors such as the braking system, lighting, engine, emissions, and overall condition of the vehicle.

The inspection is carried out by a team of professional technicians, using modern equipment to ensure accuracy.

3. Payment of fees

When the vehicle meets technical standards, the owner will pay the relevant fees. The fees include inspection fees, road maintenance fees (if required), and other fees as prescribed.

Vehicle owners can pay in cash or through non-cash payment methods depending on the inspection center.

4. Receive results and inspection certificate

After completing all procedures, the vehicle owner will receive a registration certificate and an inspection sticker to stick on the vehicle. This is legal evidence that the vehicle has been inspected and is safe to drive on the road.

Note, the certificate has an expiration date so it needs to be monitored to perform the inspection on time.

How is the Inspection Fee Calculated?

The total cost of first-time car inspection applied to both new and used cars is calculated according to the formula:

Vehicle inspection fee = Certificate issuance fee + Motor vehicle inspection fee + Road usage fee

According to the provisions of Circular No. XX/202X/TT-BGTVT of the Ministry of Transport on inspection service prices and fees for issuing inspection certificates, the current applicable prices are as follows:

In which:

• Certificate fee: After the vehicle is inspected, the vehicle owner will have to pay a fee for the registration certificate.
• Inspection fee: The inspection fee is the main fee that the vehicle owner must pay when taking the vehicle for inspection. This fee depends on the type and weight of the vehicle.

In addition to the above fees, vehicle owners must also pay road use fees. These fees are calculated based on the inspection cycle or annually.

• For cars with less than 10 seats registered under the name of individuals and business households, the road usage fee is 130.000 VND/month.
• Other vehicles have fees ranging from VND 180.000 to VND 1.430.000/month, depending on the volume and type of vehicle.

Factors affecting cost:

Vehicle inspection fees depend on the type, displacement and year of the vehicle, with larger trucks or vehicles with higher displacement typically costing more. Older vehicles will incur higher inspection fees, while newer or less-used vehicles will incur lower fees.

Car owners also need to pay extra for additional services such as emissions testing or repairs if the car does not meet standards.

1. Vehicle type and cylinder capacity

Vehicle inspection fees usually depend on vehicle type and cylinder capacity.

• Heavy trucks or tractor trailers usually have higher registration fees than cars or small buses.
• Vehicles with larger cylinder capacities will also incur higher costs because the inspection and maintenance process is more time-consuming and labor-intensive.

2. Vehicle model (year of manufacture)

Vehicle age is also an important factor affecting registration costs.

• Used vehicles, especially those that have been in use for a long time, may incur higher technical inspection costs due to the more thorough inspection required.
• New or less used cars usually have lower inspection costs because they are in better technical condition and are less likely to encounter problems during the inspection.

3. Other additional services

In addition to the basic fees, car owners may also have to pay for additional services such as emissions testing, vehicle safety testing, or repair services if the car fails the initial inspection. These services will be charged separately and depend on the condition of the car.

What is the Time Limit and Cycle for the First Car Inspection?

According to Circular 47/2024/TT-BGTVT, the time limit - the first inspection cycle for each type of vehicle is regulated from 12-36 months specifically as follows:

What is the fine for a car that has an expired first-time inspection?

According to Decree 100/2019/ND-CP, amended and supplemented by Decree 123/2021/ND-CP, the fine for cars with expired registration is prescribed as follows:

Frequently Asked Questions When Registering Your Car for the First Time

1. What if I fail the first inspection?

If it fails, the inspection center will point out the errors that need to be fixed. After the repairs, you can return for a re-inspection at no additional charge within 7 days. See more articles: Car registration fee most detailed.

2. Can I have my vehicle inspected at any center?

Yes, you can have your vehicle inspected at any inspection center nationwide, as long as the center is licensed.

3. Is the second car inspection different from the first?

Basically, the process 2nd car inspection (and subsequent times) are no different than the first time. However, there are a few differences to note:

Registration period:

• First time: New vehicles usually have a longer inspection period (for example: 30 months for non-commercial passenger vehicles with less than 9 seats).
• Second time and beyond: The inspection period is shorter and depends on the vehicle type and years of use (for example: 12-18 months for non-commercial passenger vehicles with less than 9 seats).

Documents:

• First time: Additional documents such as factory papers and vehicle purchase invoice may be required.
• Second time and above: Mainly need vehicle registration, old inspection certificate.

Inspection: Basically, the inspection process remains the same (technical inspection, emissions…). However, used cars may be inspected more thoroughly for wear parts.

4. Which address specializes in checking, maintaining and fixing registration problems quickly and reliably in HCM?

Thanh Phong Auto is an address specializing in consulting, maintaining and fixing all vehicle problems before registration. With many years of experience in the industry, Thanh Phong Auto understands the process and inspection methods of registration units, committed to helping all vehicle owners pass the standards on the first try.

Reasons to check and maintain your car at Thanh Phong Auto:

• Fast, standard service.
• Professional warranty policy.
• Clear, detailed and competitive fee schedule.

In particular, the staff is knowledgeable about vehicle registration procedures, registration fees, insurance knowledge, etc., and is ready to answer any questions customers may have. Thanh Phong Auto provides 24/7 support with a well-ventilated, fully equipped garage system. Contact us immediately if you have any problems!

Here is everything Notes when registering a car for the first time that Thanh Phong Auto shares, hopefully helps you understand the importance of vehicle inspection. Don't forget to follow Thanh Phong Auto to update more useful information!