Vehicle inspectors running checks on a car in Hà Nội. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — Brand-new automobiles will be exempt from first mechanical checks under a revised circular on technical safety and environmental protection promulgated by the Ministry of Transport.

The decision is to simplify procedures, reduce costs and save time, according to the ministry.

The legal document, which took effect on March 22, stipulates that owners of brand-new vehicles can submit dossiers at registration agencies to receive stamps without having to bring in their vehicles.

It also extends the interval between the two checks from 30 months to 36 months for those that have up to nine seats and not engaged in transport service. Meanwhile, the period will be lengthened from 18 months to 24 months for vehicles up to seven years old.

For those with more than nine seats, it will be 24 months instead of 18 months. After they become five years old, the period will be extended to 12 months instead of six months.

Regarding the group of trucks of all kinds which were produced 20 years or more ago, the interval between the two checks will be extended from three to six months.

According to the Việt Nam Register, first-time vehicle inspection exemption policy will help car owners save VNĐ130 billion (US$5.5 million) in 2023 (about 574,000 new cars purchased under a positive economic scenario). The policy will also partially affect the costs of new cars. — VNS