How is the free highway time calculated, and what if you enter in advance?
3 Answers
Highway toll-free periods are mostly calculated from 0:00 on the start day of the holiday to 24:00 on the end day. If you enter the highway during the toll period and exit during the free period, no toll will be charged; if you enter in advance and exit before the free period starts, the normal toll will apply. According to relevant regulations, highway toll exemption is not calculated based on the time of entry but on the time of exit. A highway refers to a road that can accommodate an annual average daily traffic volume of more than 25,000 small passenger vehicles, is exclusively for high-speed divided-lane driving, and has full access control. Highways can accommodate speeds of 120 kilometers per hour or higher, with road widths of four (or more) lanes.
I frequently drive on highways recently and would like to share how to calculate the toll-free periods. Based on my experience, highway toll exemptions usually occur during public holidays, with the government setting specific free dates, such as the 7-day free period during National Day. The toll system calculates whether you qualify for the exemption based on the time your vehicle exits the highway, not the entry time. This means if you exit before the toll-free period ends, regardless of when you entered, you won’t be charged. However, if you exit after the free period has ended, you’ll be charged normally based on the distance traveled. So, if you enter the highway early—for example, if the toll-free period starts on October 1st but you enter on the evening of September 30th—you can wait to exit after the free period begins on October 1st to avoid paying. I recommend planning your trip in advance, taking breaks at highway service areas to avoid fatigue driving. Additionally, downloading official highway apps can provide real-time updates on toll-free periods, ensuring both safety and savings. During holidays, heavy traffic and congestion are common, so bringing snacks and water can help ease the stress.
Every year during holidays, my family drives to visit relatives in other cities, so we pay special attention to the free highway toll policy. The free period is determined by the time your vehicle exits the highway. For example, if the free period starts at midnight on the first day of the holiday, you can enter the highway the day before as long as you exit after the free period begins. I've encountered situations where I entered early, so I parked at a service area for an hour or two waiting for the free period to start. This way, I didn't spend a penny and also got some rest. I recommend calculating your travel time carefully and using a navigation app to estimate your exit time. If you realize you might exit too early, consider adjusting your schedule or taking a short break at a service area. Safety comes first—never park on the side of the highway, as it's extremely dangerous, especially during heavy traffic. Saving money is important, but family safety is the top priority. Bringing extra snacks and water can help reduce fatigue. With proper planning, you can easily avoid peak-hour congestion.
