How to activate ETC?
2 Answers
Methods to activate ETC: 1. Bring the ETC device to the ETC service point for activation; 2. Visit a highway self-operated business office with your ID card and vehicle license for activation; 3. Staff will perform network activation of the ETC device and take photos of the vehicle condition. ETC is an Electronic Toll Collection system, one of the service functions of intelligent transportation systems. It is particularly suitable for use on highways or busy bridge-tunnel environments. Currently, highway toll stations have dedicated ETC toll lanes. Vehicle owners only need to install a sensor card on the front windshield of their vehicle and preload funds. When passing through toll stations, there's no need for manual payment or stopping - the highway toll will be automatically deducted from the card, enabling automatic toll collection.
To activate ETC, as a veteran driver who has used it for several years, I'll share the entire process. First, apply for an ETC device. I recommend applying for it for free through Alipay or WeChat, choosing the option to have the free device delivered to your home, which saves you the hassle of going to a bank. Once you receive the device, attach it to the windshield near the rearview mirror, ensuring the surface is flat and clean to avoid any obstruction. Next, download the ETC Assistant app, register an account, and bind your preferred payment method, such as a bank card or WeChat. Enter the serial number and follow the prompts to activate it. Wait a few minutes for confirmation of success. To test, simply pass through a toll station smoothly, and you're good to go. The whole process can be completed in half a day if everything goes smoothly. However, be mindful of the installation position affecting the signal—don't place it crookedly. Regularly check the adhesive strength to prevent the device from falling off, which could cause issues on the highway. I once experienced activation failure due to the app crashing, but simply trying again in a different location worked. For long-term use, remember to set up automatic top-up to avoid being stuck due to insufficient balance.
