Can I drive on the highway without an ETC?

[DeRachel]

You can drive on the highway without an ETC. ETC is not mandatory. Since January 1, 2020, you can only pay the toll through manual lanes at toll stations. It might be a bit inconvenient during holidays. ETC is just a different payment method and does not affect your ability to use the highway. There are two toll payment methods on highways: manual toll collection and ETC. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply, you need to provide the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID and vehicle license. If someone else is applying on behalf of the owner, they also need to bring their valid ID. The photocopy of the vehicle license must include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, you need a bank card for deducting highway tolls, be aged between 18 and 60, and the vehicle must be registered under a personal name. How ETC works: The vehicle-mounted electronic tag installed on the windshield communicates with the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at the toll station. Using computer networking technology, it settles the toll with the bank in the background, allowing the vehicle to pass through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping to pay. Benefits of installing ETC: Time-saving: Avoid the hassle of waiting in line; Green and eco-friendly: Low-carbon, as vehicles pass through toll stations without stopping, reducing noise and exhaust emissions; Cost-saving: Reduce costs by minimizing vehicle start-stop frequency, decreasing wear and fuel consumption, and users can enjoy toll discounts; Increased efficiency: ETC lanes can theoretically improve traffic efficiency by 2-3 times, making traditional ETC faster, more advanced, and high-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous.