Can you drive on the highway without installing ETC?
2 Answers
You can drive on the highway without ETC. Because ETC is not mandatory. Since January 1, 2020, vehicles without ETC will no longer enjoy various toll reduction policies, and can only pass through manual toll lanes at toll stations. It may be inconvenient during holidays. ETC is just a different toll collection method, which has nothing to do with whether you can drive on the highway. There are two toll collection methods on highways: manual toll collection and ETC toll collection. ETC is the abbreviation of Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply for ETC, you need to provide the original and photocopy of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and vehicle license. If it is not the owner who applies, the agent's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle license should include the page with the most recent annual inspection seal; a bank card for deducting highway tolls; the applicant must be between 18 and 60 years old; and the vehicle must be under the applicant's name. The working principle of ETC: Through the on-board electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield, it communicates with the microwave antenna in the ETC lane of the toll station, and uses computer networking technology to settle accounts with the bank in the background, allowing the vehicle to pay the highway or bridge toll without stopping when passing through the toll station. Benefits of installing ETC: Save time: Avoid the trouble of queuing and waiting; Green and environmentally friendly: Green and low-carbon, vehicles passing through the toll station without stopping can reduce noise and exhaust emissions and pollution; Save wear and tear: Save costs, reduce the frequency of vehicle starting and braking, reduce wear and fuel consumption, and users can enjoy toll discounts; Improve efficiency: The passing efficiency of ETC lanes can theoretically be increased by 2-3 times or more, making traditional ETC more updated, faster, and more high-tech. Compared with license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and has more advantages.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I've noticed a significant difference between driving on highways without ETC and after installing it. Without ETC, you can definitely access highways by taking a pass card at the entrance and paying with cash or scanning a QR code at the exit—simple and straightforward. However, during peak hours, the queue can take up to 10 minutes, wasting time and increasing the risk of minor collisions. After installing ETC, passing through becomes effortless with automatic sensing, and you often enjoy discounts on toll fees. I recommend frequent highway users consider installing ETC; for occasional trips, it's not a big deal, but check the toll station signs for available lanes in advance. Safety-wise, ETC reduces stopping risks, while manual payment requires maintaining sufficient distance between vehicles. In short, not having ETC doesn't prevent you from driving, but it does reduce convenience.
