Can I drive on the highway without an ETC?

[VeraLee]

You can drive on the highway without an ETC. Because ETC is not mandatory. Since January 1, 2020, vehicles without ETC will no longer enjoy various toll reduction policies except during holidays. When passing through toll stations, they can only use manual lanes to pay tolls. It might be inconvenient during holidays. ETC is just a different toll collection method and has nothing to do with whether you can drive on the highway. 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 vehicle license. If it's not the owner who applies, the agent's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle license should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. A bank card for deducting highway tolls is also needed. The applicant should be between 18 and 60 years old, and the vehicle should be under a personal name. The working principle of ETC: 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. Using computer networking technology, it settles accounts with the bank in the background, allowing vehicles to pay highway or bridge tolls without stopping when passing through toll stations. Benefits of installing ETC: Save time: avoid the trouble of queuing and waiting; Green and environmentally friendly: green and low-carbon, vehicles passing through toll stations without stopping can reduce noise and exhaust emissions and pollution; Save wear and tear: save costs, reduce the frequency of vehicle starts and brakes, 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 updated, faster, and more high-tech. Compared with license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous.

[WillowDella]

You certainly don't have to use the ETC system on highways. I once tried driving without an ETC pass. Last year when I took my old car onto the expressway, I stopped at the manual toll lane at the entrance. The attendant gave me a paper ticket. The drive went smoothly, but at the exit I had to stop again and pay the full amount in cash. That time I spent nearly twenty minutes waiting in line, watching cars zip through the ETC lanes beside me - what a waste of time! The toll collector also mentioned there's no discount for cash payments, so I ended up paying about ten yuan extra. After that experience, I decided to get an ETC pass. I just went to the bank with my ID card to register, and now passing through is much faster. For friends who frequently use highways, I'd recommend not skipping this small procedure - it saves time, money, and reduces emissions. Highway rules do allow you to use manual lanes, but in the long run, getting an ETC makes life much smoother.

[MacAlina]

You can still drive on the highway without an ETC. The expressway has clear regulations: stop at the manual lane at the entrance, take a toll card or pay directly. Then, pay the full amount in cash at the exit. I’ve been driving for over ten years and have seen many drivers without ETCs manage just fine, though sometimes long queues can delay trips. ETC users enjoy a 5% discount, saving a few bucks on short trips and more on long journeys. Plus, automatic tolling avoids congestion and reduces exhaust pollution. Highway entrances have signs for guidance—just follow the rules and avoid cutting in line. Safety first, and maintain a proper distance. Applying for an ETC is simple; it takes just minutes at a bank or via an online app. You can drive without one, but it’s less efficient and more costly.

[Ingrid]

When I first started driving, I asked my buddy about this issue. He said it's okay without ETC, as there are dedicated lanes at the highway entrance where you can enter. I tried it for the first time—just stop the car and take the ticket card; pay the full fee in cash at the exit with no discount. The queue was annoying, but new drivers shouldn't worry about making mistakes. Later, I learned my lesson and got an ETC for convenience. Highways are designed to allow manual payment; it just takes a bit more time. Just remember not to run through the toll gate.

[DeChristopher]

Let's do the math: Paying in cash on the highway without ETC doesn't offer any discount, while ETC users enjoy a 5% discount. For example, driving 500 kilometers can save you dozens of yuan, and these small savings add up over multiple trips. Queuing in manual lanes also wastes time and increases costs. Highway rules clearly allow manual entry, but the inconvenience often makes you spend more. Getting an ETC is simple, and the money saved can cover your fuel costs. In terms of energy conservation and environmental protection, ETC is more efficient.