Can I choose not to use ETC after applying for it?
2 Answers
If you have applied for ETC, you can choose not to use it and instead take the manual lane on the highway. Since the manual lane is not equipped with an ETC sensor, it is natural to take the manual lane to collect a card and pay. There are also two ways to collect the card in the manual lane: one is to receive the card from a professional staff member, and the other is for the driver to self-service collect the card from the card dispenser. When passing through the toll station, it is necessary to slow down and pass in order, and never cause congestion by cutting in line. ETC is the abbreviation of Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply, 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 needs to include the page with the most recent annual inspection seal; a bank card for deducting highway tolls; the applicant must be between 18 and 60 years old; the vehicle must be under the individual's name. How ETC works: Through the on-board electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield, it communicates with the microwave antenna in the ETC lane of the toll station, and uses computer networking technology to settle accounts 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 waiting in line; Green and environmentally friendly: Green and low-carbon, vehicles passing through the toll station without stopping can reduce noise and exhaust emissions and pollution; Reduce wear and tear: Save costs, reduce the frequency of vehicle starting and braking, reduce wear and fuel consumption, users can enjoy toll discounts; Improve efficiency: The ETC lane's efficiency can theoretically be increased by 2-3 times or more, making traditional ETC newer, faster, and more high-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and has more advantages.
Whether to install an ETC device in your car depends on personal needs. If you frequently use highways like I do, it's incredibly convenient. No need to queue for toll payments – the barrier lifts and you're through. Last month during a business trip, I saved over 300 yuan in toll fees. Nowadays, even gas stations and mall parking lots accept ETC payments – I used it at Wanda Plaza just last week. However, if you're like my neighbor who only uses highways two or three times a year, there's really no need to get one specifically. You can use Alipay QR codes at toll stations, though you'll have to get out and walk a few extra steps. Of course, with manual toll lanes potentially becoming scarcer in the future, this is something you'll need to weigh carefully.
