Can the ETC card be replaced?

[TannerRose]

If the IC card is damaged, it can be replaced. You can bring your ID card to the counter for replacement. The first IC card is free, while the second one incurs a handling fee. If the bank supports keeping the same card number, you can get a replacement IC card with the same number. If not, each card has a unique number, so the card number will change, but the password, SMS notifications, balance, etc., will remain the same. ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection, which is an electronic toll collection system. To apply for it, you need to provide the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and vehicle registration certificate. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent must also bring their valid ID card. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, you need a bank card for deducting highway toll fees, be aged between 18 and 60, and own the vehicle in your personal name. For company vehicles, the required documents include: An introduction letter from the vehicle owner (with official seal); a photocopy of the organization code certificate or business license (with official seal); the agent's original ID card; the original vehicle registration certificate; and the vehicle for which ETC is to be applied. Here are some installation precautions for ETC: Avoid obstructing the view; it's best to install it behind the rearview mirror. Many car models have a steeply inclined windshield, which reduces the driver's field of vision. Installing the ETC without considering this may increase blind spots. Install it on the right side behind the rearview mirror to avoid blocking the view. Do not interfere with charging: The ETC electronic tag consumes power but generally does not require charging or battery replacement, as it has a solar panel on the back for self-charging. Therefore, avoid installing it on the blackened areas of the windshield or where the solar panel might be obstructed. Once installed, do not remove it casually: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-tamper lever connected to a switch. After installation, the windshield presses the lever in. If removed, the lever will pop out, triggering the switch and locking the electronic tag, rendering it unusable. You would then need to visit an ETC service point to unlock it. This is designed to prevent multiple vehicles from sharing one device. When using ETC, note the following: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. To prevent the vehicle ahead from having a faulty ETC device, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters to avoid automatic toll payment for the vehicle ahead. The ETC lane recognizes speeds of up to 20 km/h; driving too fast may result in failure to read the vehicle's device information, leading to toll deduction failure. If using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance may also cause toll deduction failure.

[LaEvelyn]

I've been driving for over twenty years and have used quite a few ETC cards. If they break or get lost, you can always get a new one. I remember last time my card's magnetic strip wore out after long use and didn't work when I tried to swipe it on the highway. I went straight to the ETC service center. With my ID and vehicle registration in hand, the staff checked and replaced my card on the spot without any charge. The whole process took just over ten minutes, and I was back on the road without any delay. The ETC system has been upgrading over the years, and some old cards aren't compatible with new equipment anymore, so it's better to replace them early for peace of mind. I usually advise people not to leave their cards in hot or humid places, like on the dashboard under the sun, as it can shorten their lifespan. Regularly check your card for signs of wear and replace it if there's any issue to avoid malfunctions that could delay your trip.