How is the free expressway time calculated?
3 Answers
Free expressway time is determined by the time when the vehicle exits the toll lane. The scope of vehicles eligible for free expressway passage includes passenger vehicles with 7 seats or fewer (including 7 seats) traveling on toll roads, as well as motorcycles permitted on ordinary toll roads. Other vehicle types are not eligible for free passage unless there are other policies granting exemptions. Methods for entering and exiting the free expressway: 1. If entering the expressway before the free period begins but exiting during the free period, the passage is free; 2. If entering the expressway during the free period but exiting outside the free period, tolls are required; 3. If both entering and exiting the expressway occur during the free period, the passage is free.
I keep an eye on this toll-free highway period every year, which is scheduled according to national statutory holidays, mainly during major holidays like the Spring Festival, Qingming Festival, and Labor Day. The key is the time of exiting the highway! For example, the National Day toll-free period is from 00:00 on October 1st to 24:00 on October 7th. Even if you enter the highway early on the evening of September 30th, as long as you exit after 00:00 on October 1st, it's directly free. ETC users should note that if you enter the highway early and take a card, the system will automatically switch to toll-free mode when the free period begins. Last time, I saved over 300 yuan for the entire trip. However, I recommend avoiding the first and last days to prevent being stuck on the highway—getting it for free might end up costing you more.
Just remember two key points: The free period is determined by the exit time from the highway, regardless of when you entered; The exemption applies to passenger vehicles with 7 seats or fewer. On the last day of the toll-free period, I usually find a service area to rest two hours in advance. Trying to exit right at midnight is too risky – even one second over means paying the full toll. Last time on my return trip, I carefully calculated the travel time from the service area to the exit, setting off again 40 minutes early to smoothly enjoy the toll-free policy.
