How to Apply for ETC for Cars?
3 Answers
ETC can be applied for at bank branches, highway service areas, and other authorized institutions. The application requires the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and vehicle license. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle license should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. A postal credit card application form is needed, which will be used to bind the ETC card. After obtaining the credit card, swipe it twice and present the POS receipt at a designated postal outlet to receive and install the ETC onboard device for free, with no additional charges. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old and own the vehicle in their name. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. The application requires the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and vehicle license. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle license should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. A bank card for deducting highway toll fees is also needed. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old and own the vehicle in their name. Here are some precautions for installing ETC: Do not obstruct the view; it is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have a steeply inclined windshield, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. Installing ETC without considering this may increase blind spots. Install it on the right side behind the rearview mirror to avoid obstructing the view. Do not interfere with charging: The ETC electronic tag consumes power but generally does not require charging or battery replacement, as it has a solar panel on the back for self-charging. Therefore, avoid installing it on the blackened areas of the windshield or where the solar panel might be blocked. Do not remove it arbitrarily once installed: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-removal lever connected to a switch. After installation, the windshield will press the anti-removal lever in. If removed arbitrarily, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering it unusable. You will need to visit an ETC service point to unlock it. This is designed to prevent multiple vehicles from sharing one device. When using ETC, note: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. To avoid paying for the vehicle in front due to its faulty ETC device, maintain a distance of at least 10 meters from the vehicle ahead. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 km/h; driving too fast may result in failure to read the vehicle's device information and toll deduction failure. If using a debit card to bind ETC, insufficient balance may also cause toll deduction failure.
I remember when I went to apply for the ETC, I directly visited a local Bank of China branch. I brought the original ID card of the vehicle owner and the vehicle registration certificate, and also took copies just in case. The bank staff first asked me to fill out an application form, which included basic information and a usage agreement. Then they checked the documents and installed the OBU device on the windshield on the spot. The whole process took about 40 minutes and went smoothly. Using ETC is really hassle-free—it automatically deducts fees at toll stations without stopping, and you can also enjoy a 5% discount. The key point is that the device is installed for free as long as you bind it to a bank card or credit card. If you have all the necessary documents, going to a major bank or a highway service point on a weekday usually goes without a hitch. By the way, regularly clean the dust near the device to maintain its sensitivity and avoid unnecessary fee deduction errors.
From what I understand, the most essential thing for applying for ETC is having complete documents, including the vehicle owner's ID card and the vehicle's registration certificate. You can choose to apply at a bank, common options include ICBC or CCB branches, where staff will assist with online registration and device installation. I recommend making an online appointment in advance to avoid long waiting times. After installation, the OBU device needs to be activated and tested to ensure it can be detected at toll stations. Another tip is to link a credit card for automatic payment to avoid missed deductions. Don't forget that ETC also offers cost savings, providing discounts on toll fees, which is economical for long-distance driving. If the device malfunctions, visit the nearest service center for free repairs, and avoid disassembling it yourself to prevent damage.
