Can I drive on the highway without ETC?
2 Answers
You can drive on the highway without ETC. Because 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 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 the application is not made by the owner, 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; the applicant must be between 18 and 60 years old; the vehicle must be registered under an 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 at the toll station. Using computer networking technology, it settles accounts with the bank in the background, allowing the vehicle to pass through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping to pay the toll. Benefits of installing ETC: Time-saving: Avoid the hassle of waiting in line; Green and eco-friendly: Low-carbon, vehicles pass through toll stations without stopping, reducing noise and exhaust emissions and pollution; Cost-saving: Reduce costs, decrease the frequency of vehicle starts and stops, reduce wear and fuel consumption, users can enjoy toll discounts; Improved efficiency: The 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.
I'm an experienced driver who frequently takes the highway, but I've never gotten an ETC. Honestly, you can still use the highway without ETC—there are manual toll lanes or self-service payment machines at the entrances and exits, accepting cash or mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat, which is simple and convenient. The only downside is the annoying queues during peak hours, especially on holidays or during rush hours in the morning and evening, where traffic jams at toll stations are common, often adding a few extra minutes of waiting. The upside is that you don’t need to bind a bank card or go through complicated procedures, reducing privacy risks. If you only use the highway occasionally, like once or twice a year, there’s no need for ETC. But if you frequently travel long distances or commute, getting an ETC is better—it’s faster and offers discounts, saving both time and money. In short, don’t worry about being unable to hit the road—just keep some spare change or your phone handy.
