Can I drive on the highway without ETC?

[Landon]

You can drive on the highway without ETC. ETC is not mandatory. Since January 1, 2020, vehicles without ETC will no longer enjoy various toll reduction benefits and can only pass through manual toll lanes at toll stations. It might be inconvenient during holidays. ETC is just a different toll collection method and does not affect your ability to use the highway. There are two toll collection methods on highways: manual toll collection and ETC toll collection. 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 registration certificate. If the applicant is not the owner, a valid ID of the agent is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. You also need a bank card for deducting highway tolls, and the applicant must be between 18 and 60 years old, with the vehicle registered under their name. How ETC works: The onboard electronic tag installed on the vehicle's 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 vehicle wear and fuel consumption by minimizing starts and stops, and enjoy toll discounts; Improved efficiency: ETC lanes can theoretically increase traffic efficiency by 2-3 times, making traditional ETC more advanced, faster, and high-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous.