Can pickup trucks apply for ETC?
4 Answers
Pickup trucks cannot apply for ETC. On the vehicle license, pickup trucks are classified as trucks, and trucks are not eligible for ETC or the dedicated lanes. They must use manual lanes for weight-based toll collection. ETC, which stands for Electronic Toll Collection, is an automatic tolling system for highways or bridges. ETC works through dedicated short-range microwave communication between the onboard electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield and the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at the toll station. It uses computer networking technology to process backend settlements with banks, allowing vehicles to pass through toll stations without stopping to pay bridge or road fees. A pickup truck is a light-duty cargo vehicle with an open-top cargo box behind the cab, where the side panels of the cargo box are integrated with the cab. It is a dual-purpose vehicle with a front resembling a sedan and a rear featuring a cargo box.
I just got an ETC for my pickup truck last year, and it's super convenient. Actually, pickups can apply for ETC—mine is a domestic Great Wall pickup, and I often use ETC on highways to save time. The application process was a breeze: I went to the bank, filled out a form, brought my ID and vehicle license, and the staff installed the device on the spot—done in less than 30 minutes. Pickups aren’t treated differently because they’re usually classified as light passenger or commercial vehicles, following the same rules as regular cars. The key point is not to worry about the size—highway tolls are deducted the same way as for sedans. I recommend applying early—not only does it help avoid the hassle of queuing to pay, but you can also earn points for car wash discounts. Lately, I’ve noticed more pickups using ETC on the road, which shows the system has broad coverage with no real barriers. Just remember to check the device regularly to prevent aging from affecting your passage.
As a pickup truck owner who frequently drives long distances, I can confirm that pickups are eligible for ETC. China's ETC system has strong compatibility, and as a light-duty vehicle, a pickup can apply as long as the vehicle registration is valid. The process is simple: bring the vehicle registration certificate and the owner's ID card to a bank or ETC service point to apply for the card, and the device will be installed for free. There are no special restrictions for pickups—my Ford F-150 drives on highways without any issues. Don’t believe rumors claiming pickups can’t use ETC; even smaller-sized ones are fine. I recommend choosing a bank service that offers additional discounts, such as a 10% reduction on toll fees. Always ensure your ETC card has sufficient balance to avoid malfunctions at the toll gate. Once set up, it’s hassle-free and saves money, making highway travel much faster. Don’t forget to maintain the device—check it at least once a year.
Pickup trucks can definitely apply for ETC, speaking from a decade of pickup driving experience. The vehicle registration lists it as a small passenger-cargo dual-purpose vehicle, with the same application procedure. Just bring your documents to a bank or service outlet to apply. The process is quick, and the device works once installed. Highway tolling saves time, and the pickup's larger size doesn't affect billing. Choose a reliable service provider—don't skimp and end up with counterfeit equipment. A common misconception is that pickups are treated as trucks, but the rules are uniform. Remember to maintain your ETC card regularly to avoid misreads due to dust. Enjoy the convenience after a simple application.
