Can cars without ETC use highways?

[StFelicity]

Highways can be used without ETC. Because ETC is not mandatory to install. According to Article 19 of the "Notice on Vigorously Promoting the Development and Application of ETC on Highways" issued by the State Council, starting from January 1, 2020, vehicles without ETC will no longer enjoy various preferential policies such as toll reductions. When passing through toll stations, they can only pay the toll through manual lanes. It may be somewhat inconvenient during holidays. ETC is just a different toll collection method and has nothing to do with whether a vehicle can use highways. There are two toll collection methods on highways: manual toll collection and ETC toll collection. ETC is the abbreviation of Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply for ETC, you need to provide the original and photocopy of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and driving license. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the driving license should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. A bank card for deducting highway tolls is also needed. The applicant must be between 18 and 60 years old and the vehicle must be registered under a personal name. How ETC works: Through the onboard electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield, it communicates with the microwave antenna in the ETC lane of the toll station. Using computer networking technology, it settles with the bank in the background, allowing the vehicle to pay the highway or bridge toll without stopping when passing through the toll station. Benefits of installing ETC: Save time: Avoid the hassle of queuing and waiting; Green and environmentally friendly: Low-carbon, as vehicles pass through toll stations without stopping, reducing noise and exhaust emissions and pollution; Save wear and tear: Reduce costs, decrease the frequency of vehicle starts and stops, and reduce wear and fuel consumption; Improve efficiency: The passing efficiency of ETC lanes can theoretically be increased by 2-3 times or more, making traditional ETC more updated, faster, and more high-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous.

[LeDakota]

I used to drive on highways without an ETC just fine! I just had to go through the manual lane and pay with cash or by scanning a QR code. ETC is an electronic toll collection system—installing it saves time and hassle, letting you pass through toll stations without queuing and even gives you a discount, usually 5% off. Not having an ETC can indeed be a bit troublesome, especially during holidays when the manual lanes might have long queues, wasting time. I recommend everyone get one as soon as possible, either at a bank or through online apps like Alipay or WeChat—it’s super convenient. When driving, I always remind myself to carry some spare change just in case. Safety comes first on the highway, and not having an ETC won’t affect your driving, but forming good habits can make every trip smoother!

[LeJordan]

As a car enthusiast who loves tinkering with automotive skills, I'm well aware that the high-speed ETC is an Electronic Toll Collection system that automatically deducts fees via onboard equipment. Of course, you can still use highways without it, but you'll need to enter manual lanes to pay with cash or scan QR codes. ETC offers many benefits, such as avoiding congestion and enjoying discounted rates. The system uses radio frequency identification technology, making it fast and eco-friendly. In the pre-ETC era, payment methods were flexible, accepting mobile payments or cash; however, during holiday peaks, manual lanes could form long queues, wasting time. I recommend fellow drivers take the time to apply for an ETC—the process is simple now through banks or apps, and installation makes driving more relaxed and safer. The key to smooth highway travel lies in following the rules—don't let saving a few bucks hold you back.

[Rhett]

With years of driving experience, I can tell you that you can still access highways without an ETC by using the manual toll lanes. However, from a safety perspective, ETC helps avoid distractions from stopping to pay, reducing accident risks. Without ETC, remember to prepare cash or your phone to avoid blocking the entrance. Stay alert on the highway. The ETC system is designed to improve efficiency—you can drive without it, but having one offers more peace of mind, especially for long trips. Don’t overlook this; handle it early to ensure a smoother journey.

[CarlosLee]

We old-timers are used to paying with cash when driving, and we can still get on the highway without ETC—just paying at the manual toll lane is simple. ETC is a new electronic payment thing that young people find handy. I often see them zooming through with just a swipe, and I’m a bit envious. Young drivers, maybe you could teach us old folks how to use it—getting an ETC is indeed hassle-free, and the discounts are pretty sweet. But if you don’t have it, no big deal, the highway is still accessible. Just don’t forget to bring small change when paying in cash.

[RonanFitz]

As a young car owner, when driving on the highway without ETC, I use manual payment, either with cash or by scanning a WeChat QR code. The system supports various methods, so it doesn't affect driving at all. However, ETC is incredibly convenient with automatic fee deduction and no queuing, saving time and being eco-friendly on the highway. I recommend friends to apply for it as soon as possible; now you can apply online in just a few minutes and activate it with one click in the app. Don't worry if you don't have ETC yet; you can still pass through. A smooth highway journey is what matters most.