Can the ETC card be removed when not in use?
2 Answers
The ETC card can be removed, but the ETC device will not function without it. According to the "Rules for the Use of the Non-Stop Rapid Passage System," the ETC card must be inserted into the OBU device for normal operation; otherwise, user information cannot be read. If the card is removed, you can use the manual lane and have the staff swipe the card. When the ETC card is inserted into the OBU device, a prompt sound will indicate that the device is activated. Without the card, the device remains in a dormant state and cannot recognize vehicle information at toll stations, so it should be reinserted when needed. ETC is the Electronic Toll Collection system, also known as the Automatic Road Charging System. It is a specialized road toll method used for toll roads, commonly seen on highways, toll bridges or tunnels, and certain urban sections to alleviate traffic congestion. ETC Deduction Principle: Highways have one or more ETC lanes. Through microwave short-range communication between the vehicle's electronic tag (installed on the windshield) and the microwave antenna in the ETC lane, and using computer networking technology for backend settlement with banks, vehicles can pass toll stations without stopping to pay road or bridge fees. This operates on the principle of "pass first, deduct later." Benefits of Installing ETC: Time-saving: Eliminates the hassle of waiting in queues; Green and eco-friendly: Reduces noise and exhaust emissions by allowing vehicles to pass toll stations without stopping; Reduced wear and tear: Saves costs by minimizing vehicle starts and brakes, lowering wear and fuel consumption; Improved efficiency: ETC lanes can theoretically increase passing efficiency by 2-3 times, making traditional ETC faster and more high-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous. More policy support: The State Council's "13th Five-Year Plan for the Development of a Modern Comprehensive Transportation System" explicitly states the goal of "achieving interoperability of transport cards in key city clusters by 2020 and significantly increasing the proportion of vehicles equipped with ETC," with a target of "50% ETC usage rate for road passenger vehicles by 2020." Future possibilities: Beyond improving ETC installation convenience and passenger vehicle usage rates, future efforts will promote ETC for trucks and explore deeper integration of ETC systems with smart transportation developments like vehicle-to-vehicle communication and vehicle-road coordination, providing comprehensive travel services for car owners. This means more application scenarios will support ETC.
As someone who frequently drives with family on trips, I've found it's perfectly fine to remove the ETC card when not in use—especially when parking in unfamiliar or less secure areas. I've made it a habit to take out the card and tuck it into my bag, so even if someone tries to steal the in-car device, they won't get the card information. In fact, the ETC system relies on both the small box and the card working together, with the card mainly responsible for payment identification. Removing it won't damage the device or affect the next use, as the system shuts down once the car is parked. However, be cautious about frequent removal and insertion—I tried it a few times, and the card slot became slightly loose, making the card fit less securely later. Gentle handling is key. Additionally, when the car is exposed to intense outdoor heat or rainy seasons, removing the card can also reduce risks of overheating or moisture damage, extending the device's lifespan. My daily advice: remove it during long parking periods or weekends when the car isn't in use—it's worry-free and safer. Just remember to reinsert it before driving.
