Can You Drive on the Highway Without ETC?
1 Answers
Yes, cars without ETC can drive on the highway because ETC is not mandatory. Since January 1, 2020, vehicles without ETC are no longer eligible for various toll reduction benefits and can only pass through toll stations via manual lanes to pay the toll. This might be inconvenient during holidays. ETC is just a different method of toll collection and does not affect the ability to 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, which is an electronic toll system. To apply for ETC, the vehicle owner must provide original and photocopies of their valid ID card and vehicle registration certificate. If someone else is applying on behalf of the owner, they must also bring their own valid ID card. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate must 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 their name. How ETC works: The system uses an onboard electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield to communicate with microwave antennas in the ETC lane at toll stations. It then performs background settlements with banks via computer networking technology, allowing vehicles to pass through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping to pay the toll. Benefits of installing ETC: Time-saving: Eliminates the hassle of waiting in line. Green and eco-friendly: Reduces noise and exhaust emissions since vehicles pass through toll stations without stopping. Cost-saving: Reduces wear and tear and fuel consumption by minimizing frequent starts and stops. Users also enjoy toll discounts. Increased efficiency: ETC lanes can theoretically improve traffic efficiency by 2-3 times, making traditional ETC faster, more advanced, and high-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous.