How to Get a Toll Card for First-Time Highway Users

[ORicardo]

Henan Province is expected to fully implement the National VI emission standards for motor vehicles starting from July 1. Below is an introduction to the National VI standards: 1. Definition of National VI standards: The National VI standards, or the China VI emission standards for motor vehicles, are established to enforce environmental protection laws, reduce and prevent pollution from vehicle exhaust, protect the ecological environment, and ensure human health. 2. Implementation timeline of National VI standards: Currently, the National VI standards are divided into National VIa and National VIb, with plans to implement them nationwide in 2020 and 2023, respectively. The implementation of National VI standards will impose stricter requirements on emissions such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. The National VI standards were issued by the Ministry of Environmental Protection and the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection, and Quarantine on December 23, 2016, and June 22, 2018, respectively. The "Limits and Measurement Methods for Emissions from Heavy-Duty Diesel Vehicles (China VI)" came into effect on July 1, 2019. Based on past experience, vehicles meeting National II standards were phased out when National V was implemented, so it is highly likely that National III standard vehicles will also be phased out after the implementation of National VI. The timing of the phase-out will depend on the actual conditions of each region.

[LeMorgan]

I still remember feeling a bit nervous the first time I drove on the highway, but taking the toll card was actually quite simple: slow down before the highway entrance, pull up and stop next to the toll booth, roll down the driver's side window, and the attendant will hand you a pass card. Take it and keep it safe—don’t lose it. During the process, be careful not to get too close and scrape the barrier, and don’t rush to start moving. After getting the card, check if the printing is clear; if it’s blurry, you might get charged incorrectly at the exit. If the line is long, don’t honk impatiently. For your first time, it’s best to avoid rush hours in the morning and evening—try a time when there’s less traffic. Also, a reminder for new drivers: don’t turn off the navigation, as highways have many forks and it’s easy to get lost. Safety first—if you feel like the card might fall, take a photo with your phone as a backup.

[KateLee]

When it comes to taking the toll card on highways, after many trips, I've summarized a few key points: slow down properly in the entry lane, make sure your car is aligned straight with the toll window, reach out and take the card directly without unnecessary talk, then store it safely in the center console slot. Beginners often panic, leading to not fully rolling down the window or mistakenly pressing the accelerator. It's advisable to observe the signs a kilometer or two in advance to identify the correct lane—ETC lanes are marked in blue, so don't enter them by mistake. When taking the card manually, say 'thank you' to the staff. If you drop the card, immediately ask for a replacement instead of getting out to pick it up, as it's too dangerous. Also, after receiving the card, it's best to check the start time on it before heading to your destination. In case you forget the card at the exit, you can check the records on your phone.

[StKylie]

The first time I got a highway toll card was when I went on an outing with friends. Driving up to the entrance, I slowed down and stopped at the booth. The window opened, and the attendant handed me a card. I just put it in my pocket and drove off. It was really simple, no technical skills required. The key is not to get nervous—speeds at the entrance are slow, so it's very safe. Later, I was reminded to keep the card safe and not throw it away like trash, or I'd have to pay a fine at the exit. New drivers can practice using the rearview mirror to judge their position to avoid hitting the toll gate barrier.

[DanteMarie]

Be extra cautious when taking a toll card on the highway with kids: Drive up to the entrance booth, park, and tell the children not to move around. I open the window, take the card, and secure it in the glove box. During this process, ensure kids don't lean out the window for safety. It's advisable to educate them beforehand to stay quiet. The first time taking a card might involve waiting in line for a few minutes—be patient. Once the card is in hand, proceed. Notably, the card prints the entry station name, which can help check the route if navigation fails. While driving on the highway, avoid sudden lane changes; after getting the card, focus on driving and maintain a safe distance.

[DamianAnn]

As a commuter who frequently drives on highways, here's my toll card experience: For your first time entering the highway, let the navigation guide you to the dedicated entry lane, slow down to take the card at the booth, and place it on the center console to prevent loss. Avoid ETC lanes unless you have the device installed. To get the card quickly, align your vehicle with the toll collector's window to avoid time-wasting repositioning. After taking the card, stay focused while driving, especially at night when visibility is poor - remember to turn on your lights. Related advice: beginners should practice during daytime with clear weather to familiarize themselves with the process; always keep the card properly after use to avoid needing a replacement next time.