Can non-ETC vehicles use ETC lanes during free periods?
2 Answers
During highway toll-free periods, regular vehicles without ETC can still enter and exit through ETC lanes. How ETC works: Through dedicated short-range communication between the onboard electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield and the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at toll stations, it uses computer networking technology to conduct background settlement processing with banks. This achieves the purpose of vehicles passing through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping while still paying the fees. ETC usage precautions: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. When encountering a stationary vehicle ahead, maintain a distance of over 10 meters to prevent automatic fee payment for the preceding vehicle in case its ETC device malfunctions or is absent. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20km/h. Excessive speed will prevent reading of vehicle device information, resulting in failed fee deduction. Unauthorized removal or movement of OBU devices, or detachment/loosening of ETC electronic tags will deactivate the electronic tag. These can be taken to the bank where the ETC card was issued or highway service offices for inspection. Non-deliberate detachment only requires reactivation. When using debit cards linked to ETC, insufficient balance will cause deduction failure. Follow on-site staff guidance to use manual MTC lanes with cash or card payments. Excessively thick windshields may cause poor signal reception. This particularly applies to vehicles that have had windshield replacements after accidents or aftermarket windshield modifications.
As an experienced driver who has driven on highways for many years, my advice is that vehicles without ETC can technically pass through ETC lanes during toll-free periods since no charges apply. However, in practice, this often causes issues. Without taking a manual card at the entrance, the exit system may fail to recognize your vehicle, leading to being stopped for lengthy explanations or registrations, which wastes time and causes frustration. During busy toll-free periods like the Spring Festival, high traffic volumes mean such actions can easily cause congestion or even minor accidents. I remember once accidentally entering an ETC lane—despite the staff’s politeness, I had to fill out forms, delaying me for over ten minutes. So, for smooth travel, it’s best to stick to manual lanes. ETC lanes are designed for equipped vehicles—don’t cut corners for speed. Also, getting an ETC is genuinely convenient for faster passage and discounts, so consider installing one to avoid hassle. On policy: all vehicles travel free during toll-free periods, but lane rules remain unchanged—safety first.
