How to pass through with ETC during the toll-free period on highways?
2 Answers
During the highway toll-free period, ETC users can choose to enter through the ETC lane and exit through the ETC lane without being charged; entering through the manual lane and exiting through the manual lane also does not incur charges; entering through the manual lane and exiting through the ETC lane will not work as there is no entry information, and the exit barrier will not lift; entering through the ETC lane and exiting through the manual lane is allowed without charges. ETC usage precautions: The ETC transaction sensing area is 8 meters. When the vehicle in front stops, to prevent the ETC device of the front vehicle from malfunctioning or not having an ETC device at all, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters from the front vehicle to avoid automatic sensing and paying for the front vehicle. The speed for ETC lane recognition is 20km/h. If the speed is too fast, the vehicle device information cannot be read, leading to a failed charge. Unauthorized removal or movement of the OBU device, or if the ETC electronic tag falls off or becomes loose, will cause the electronic tag to fail. It can be taken to the bank where the ETC card was issued or to the highway service office for inspection. If the loosening or falling off is not due to human action, reactivation is sufficient.
I've been driving for over a decade, and using ETC during toll-free highway periods is quite hassle-free. During the free period, you can just drive straight through the ETC lane—the system automatically recognizes it as toll-free, with no need to handle the card or device. The key is to ensure your entry and exit points match; avoid stopping midway or removing the ETC card, as this might trigger incorrect charges. I recommend checking the toll-free schedule in advance, especially during peak times like National Day or Spring Festival, when heavy traffic can cause congestion. Leaving early helps avoid crowds. Once during Labor Day, I drove back to my hometown via the ETC lane, saving over half an hour of queuing time. Just make sure your ETC device is functional and the card is properly inserted. After passing through, you don’t need to worry about tolls—just focus on driving. This method is especially practical during free periods, making road trips smoother and worry-free.
