How to Check if a Vehicle Has ETC Service?
4 Answers
To check if a vehicle has ETC service, you need to bring your ID card, vehicle license, and other relevant documents to an ETC service outlet and consult the staff. Generally, the staff will contact the previous owner through the database and ask them to cancel the ETC service at the bank where it was originally registered. If the previous owner cannot be contacted, the ETC information can only be forcibly canceled in the backend to allow the new owner to apply for a new ETC service. The ETC installation process is as follows: After receiving the device, first check if the ETC card and the electronic tag (OBU) are damaged. Press the anti-tamper button on the back of the OBU. The red light will briefly turn on, and the OLED screen will display "Tag Invalid, Please Insert Card," indicating the device is functioning properly. Clean the front windshield, ensuring the surface is smooth, clean, and dry. Then, peel off the protective film on the back of the OBU and stick it to the installation location. Press firmly for 2-3 minutes to remove any air bubbles. Insert the ETC card with the front side facing the driver and the back side facing the windshield. The chip should be inserted into the OBU device. Benefits of installing ETC: Time-saving: Eliminates the hassle of waiting in queues; Green and eco-friendly: Reduces noise and exhaust emissions by allowing vehicles to pass through toll stations without stopping, contributing to lower pollution; Cost-saving: Reduces vehicle wear and fuel consumption by minimizing frequent starts and stops. Users also enjoy a 5% discount on toll fees; Improved efficiency: ETC lanes can theoretically increase vehicle throughput by 2-3 times, making traditional ETC faster, more efficient, and more high-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous.
As a regular driver, if you want to check whether your car has an ETC device, the simplest way is to look for a small square device attached near the rearview mirror on the windshield. If you see one, it means ETC is installed. Alternatively, check inside the car for a card, usually linked to a bank account. You can also log in to the official ETC app or website and enter your license plate number to check the status—some banking apps also provide this service, displaying records if you’ve completed the registration. If you can’t remember where you applied, call the ETC service center; the number can be found online. Nowadays, many highway toll stations have self-service kiosks—just scan your license plate while passing by to check. Additionally, it’s advisable to regularly monitor your ETC balance and linked account to avoid payment issues that could disrupt your travels. This is very convenient and doesn’t require a trip to the bank.
As a frequent long-distance traveler, checking ETC is quite convenient. The first choice is to open the app store on your phone and download an official app like 'Palm ETC'. After registering and logging in with the bound phone number, you can enter your license plate number to check whether it has been processed, its status, and the remaining balance. If that doesn't work, you can search for an ETC mini-program on WeChat and get it done with a few clicks. If you have an ETC card from ICBC or CCB, simply open their bank app, select the ETC service, and enter your license plate number to check. Offline, you can go to the self-service terminals at highway service areas or toll stations to scan your license plate. A reminder to everyone: if you no longer use ETC, make sure to cancel it in time to avoid overcharging. Also, don't forget that the device's battery may age and need replacement, so it's advisable to check it approximately every two years.
As an experienced driver, my advice is to check if your vehicle has an ETC by looking for a small device placed at the front of the car. If it's not installed, there won't be one. If you can't remember the procedures you've gone through, just contact your bank—they keep records. You can directly visit the counter or call to ask if your license plate is already bound. Alternatively, drive to a nearby highway toll station, and the staff can check for you immediately. Some places have ETC centers with hotlines; simply call to inquire about your license plate status. Remember not to randomly fill in personal information online to avoid leaks—safety is crucial, and official channels are the fastest.
