Can You Drive on the Highway Without ETC?

[DiSimon]

You can drive on the highway without having an ETC installed. ETC is not mandatory. Since January 1, 2020, when passing through toll stations, you can only pay the toll through manual lanes. It might be a bit inconvenient during holidays. ETC is just a different method of toll collection and has no bearing on whether you can drive on the highway. There are two methods of toll collection on highways: manual toll collection and ETC toll collection. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll system. To apply for ETC, you need to provide the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and vehicle registration certificate. If the application is made by someone other than the owner, the agent's valid ID card must also be provided. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, a bank card for deducting highway tolls is required. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old, and the vehicle must be registered under an individual's name. How ETC works: The vehicle-mounted electronic tag installed on the windshield communicates with the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at the toll station. Using computer networking technology, the system settles the toll with the bank in the background, allowing vehicles 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: Reduces vehicle wear and fuel consumption by minimizing the frequency of starting and braking. Users can also enjoy toll discounts; Improved efficiency: ETC lanes can theoretically increase traffic efficiency by 2-3 times, making traditional ETC more updated, faster, and more high-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous.

[LincolnLee]

You can definitely get on the highway without ETC, I can guarantee that as a veteran driver with over a decade of experience. Before ETC existed, we all used manual lanes, stopping to pay with cash or mobile QR codes—it worked perfectly fine. The only downside is it’s slower, especially during peak hours when tollbooth queues can take several minutes, delaying your trip. The advantage of ETC is speed—you zip through in a flash, saving time and hassle. If possible, I recommend getting one installed, especially for frequent long-distance drivers like me—you can even earn points for discounts, making it cost-effective. But if you don’t have one, no worries; you can still enter and exit the highway temporarily.

[LeGideon]

From a cost-saving perspective, it's perfectly fine to use highways without an ETC. Manual toll lanes remain open, offering flexible payment options like WeChat or Alipay. However, ETC usually comes with discounts, such as national promotion policies that help drivers save on toll fees—not having one means missing out. I've considered the costs: if you only occasionally take the highway, the savings might not justify it, but for frequent users, the fuel and time wasted queuing in manual lanes could be more costly. It's advisable to weigh the convenience—highway entrances have clear signage, so just follow the directions.

[RowanFitz]

Technically speaking, ETC is a wireless system. You can still access highways normally without it by using manual lanes. Toll collectors will scan your license plate or you can present a payment QR code for processing. However, ETC is more efficient as cameras automatically recognize vehicles, reducing congestion. Don't worry if you don't have the device—the system was designed to accommodate all users' needs.

[LaneMarie]

As a parent with kids, I can tell you it's possible to use highways without ETC - choosing manual toll lanes for family trips poses no real obstacles. But during queues, children tend to get impatient, and cabin commotion increases safety risks. With ETC, there are fewer stops, making journeys smoother and more relaxed. I recommend planning trips to avoid peak hours, ensuring safety comes first. If you haven't installed ETC, don't panic - highway service areas provide rest stops to regroup and handle such situations.