Can you not drive on the highway without an ETC?
2 Answers
Vehicles without ETC can still drive on the highway because ETC is not mandatory. Since January 1, 2020, vehicles without ETC are no longer eligible for various toll reduction policies and can only pass through toll stations via manual lanes for payment. It might be less convenient during holidays. ETC is simply a different payment method and does not affect access to highways. There are two toll collection methods on highways: manual toll collection and ETC toll collection. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply for ETC, you need to provide the original and copies 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 is also required. The copy 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 needed. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old, and the vehicle must be registered under an individual's name. How ETC works: Through an onboard electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield, it communicates with the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at the toll station. Using computer networking technology, it settles transactions with the bank in the background, allowing vehicles to pass through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping to pay. Benefits of installing ETC: Saves time: Eliminates the hassle of waiting in line; Green and eco-friendly: Promotes low-carbon travel by reducing noise and exhaust emissions as vehicles pass through toll stations without stopping; Reduces wear and tear: Lowers costs by decreasing the frequency of vehicle starts and stops, reducing wear and fuel consumption, and users can enjoy toll discounts; Improves efficiency: ETC lanes can theoretically increase passage 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.
When I first drove on the highway without an ETC, I could still pass smoothly. Toll stations all have non-ETC lanes specifically for cash payment. Just find the manual payment window at the entrance, pay the fee, and you can pass; the same applies at the exit. Not having an ETC won’t block your way—it just takes a bit more time. I’ve personally seen ETC cars zooming through during holidays while non-ETC lanes formed long queues. ETC saves waiting time and even offers discounts. The device is easy to install, and you can get it for free at banks or service stations. If you don’t get one, just prepare small change for cash payments; mobile QR code payments are also convenient. Whether to get an ETC depends on your habits—if you frequently use highways, it’s cost-effective; if only occasionally, it’s fine, though the experience may be worse. Remember, safety comes first, and payment methods are flexible; policies encourage ETC but don’t enforce it. After changing cars, I got one and now pass smoothly; but for years before that, not having one didn’t cause major issues.
