HCMC – Vehicle inspection centers in HCMC have faced network congestion today, March 2, delaying inspections and certificate issuance on the first day of electronic vehicle inspection certificates being introduced.
The disruption occurred as centers began issuing digital inspection certificates and applying a new emissions testing process under Decision 43/2025/QD-TTg, issued by the prime minister on November 28, 2025, reported the Vietnam News Agency.
Nguyen Chi Linh, head of the 50-05V inspection center, said the electronic certification software managed by Vietnam Register became overloaded at times. The system failed to update inspection results and synchronize data, preventing certificates from being issued. The center temporarily stopped accepting additional vehicles beyond those already registered while technical teams worked to fix the technical glitch.
Long lines formed early in the morning at several inspection centers, including the 50-05V center on Hong Ha Street. Many vehicle owners arrived before 6 a.m. to secure queue numbers. Processing was slower than expected as the new system began operating at 7:30 a.m.
At the 50-07V inspection center in Binh Tan Ward, technical errors linked to the new testing method forced dozens of vehicles to wait. Center staff attributed the delays to initial software issues and said technicians were working to restore normal operations.
Linh said inspection times are expected to shorten once the system stabilizes, taking about 20–30 minutes for passenger cars and 30–35 minutes for trucks.
The new inspection process also introduces stricter emissions requirements. Inspection centers advised vehicle owners to maintain engines, tires, and lighting systems to meet the standards.
Under the Government’s roadmap, emissions limits now vary by production year. From March 1, 2026, vehicles must meet minimum emissions levels ranging from Level 1 for vehicles made before 1999 to Level 4 for those manufactured from 2022.
Stricter requirements will follow. From January 1, 2027, vehicles produced between 2017 and 2021 operating in Hanoi and HCMC must meet Level 4 standards. From 2028, Level 5 standards will apply to vehicles manufactured from 2022 in the two cities. By 2032, vehicles produced from 2022 onward must comply with Level 5 nationwide.
