How to apply for a car ETC?
2 Answers
There are two ways to apply for a car ETC: through service outlets or online. Here is more relevant information: 1. Service outlet application: The car owner needs to bring the original and photocopies of their ID card and vehicle license (the copy should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp), along with an income proof stamped by their employer. If applying through an agent, the agent's ID card is also required. Then, fill out the relevant application forms at the counter and wait for the bank's review. 2. Online APP application: Several banks, such as Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and China Construction Bank, have successively launched online application functions, allowing users to enjoy a high-quality experience without leaving their homes.
As a veteran long-distance driver, I find applying for a small car ETC incredibly simple and practical! The most reliable way is to visit a bank branch or the ETC service window at highway rest areas. Just bring your original ID card, vehicle registration certificate, and a bank card (preferably a credit card to avoid deposit requirements), fill out an application form, and you're done. Staff will help you bind the device on-site—it's a small terminal that sticks to the windshield near the rearview mirror with double-sided tape. The whole process takes about 20 minutes, is free, and includes the first activation test. The benefits of ETC are numerous: no need to stop and queue at toll stations, automatic fee deduction saves time and effort, and highway tolls usually come with a 5% discount, adding up to significant savings. After installation, remember to check periodically for loose devices to avoid signal failure affecting passage. Nowadays, you can pre-fill information online to speed things up, but face-to-face service is more reassuring for new drivers. If you encounter card issues later, bank customer service can handle them—maintenance is simple. Getting an ETC makes daily driving smoother, so I recommend car owners act quickly.
