How much does it cost to apply for ETC?

[LaAlejandro]

Installing ETC is currently free of charge. To compete for customers, various banks now provide the equipment for free, which previously cost several hundred yuan. The electronic toll collection tag, which records vehicle information, is an onboard device that communicates with dedicated equipment installed in ETC lanes. The ETC card and electronic tag must be used together to achieve non-stop passage in ETC lanes. Below is how to apply for ETC: 1. Applying at a business office: You only need to bring the owner's ID card and vehicle license. If it is handled by an authorized agent, the agent's ID card is also required. 2. Applying online via mobile phone: Users only need to fill in personal and vehicle information on the corresponding interface and upload images such as ID card and vehicle license to complete the application.

[DeReid]

The cost of applying for an ETC is usually very low, depending mainly on the bank and installation method. I applied once last year and chose China Construction Bank, which was completely free—I just paid a 100-yuan deposit, refundable upon ETC cancellation, making it effectively zero cost. Banks often waive device fees during promotions. If you buy the OBU device directly from the highway company, it might cost 100-200 yuan. For long-term use, you also get a 5% discount on toll fees, saving me a lot on weekly commuting fuel costs—totally worth it. However, be aware that some banks may charge a small annual fee. Based on my research, choosing a major mainstream bank is the safest bet. Installation is quick, taking just half an hour. With ETC, you skip tollbooth queues, saving time and hassle. I recommend applying early.

[MiaLee]

I've been driving for over a decade and have extensive experience with ETC. Regarding costs, the device used to cost over 200 yuan, but now it's mostly free. A 100-yuan deposit is standard, refundable after use, making the actual expense zero. The key is choosing the right channel—for instance, Postal Savings Bank often offers free promotions where you can get it without any charge. From my experience, scheduling an appointment via an APP makes on-site installation very convenient. An added benefit is saving 10% on highway tolls, which can add up to hundreds of yuan annually. Just remember to check the contract to avoid hidden annual fees. I recommend going through major banks for the safest option.

[VonDominic]

Applying for ETC doesn't cost much. The bank installs the device for free, only charging a 100 yuan deposit, which will be refunded upon cancellation. If you purchase the device yourself, it costs around 150 yuan. It's convenient to use, and you can enjoy worry-free savings on highways without any discounts.

[VanBeckett]

ETC fees depend on the application method. When I applied through Bank of China, there was no equipment fee—only a 100 yuan deposit that gets refunded upon deactivation. Highway companies may charge around 150 yuan for the device. Comparatively, the bank route is more cost-effective, with no annual fee and quick installation. After installation, you get a 5% discount on highway tolls, which can save you a significant amount over time. I also checked policies in different regions—costs are generally low, so just choose one without an annual fee.

[VonChloe]

The cost of applying for ETC is minimal, but the value is significant. During installation, the 100 yuan deposit is refundable, and the device is often free. It's essentially cost-free. The key is the high return on investment – a 15% discount on highway tolls saves me four to five hundred yuan a year. Choosing banks like Agricultural Bank that waive annual fees makes it hassle-free and cost-effective. Installation is simple, done via a mobile app, and driving becomes safer too.