How to Use ETC on Free Highways?

[MacCarmen]

For free highway ETC users: Enter via ETC lane and exit via ETC lane - no charge; Enter via manual lane and exit via manual lane - no charge; Enter via manual lane and exit via ETC lane - no entry information, barrier won't lift at exit; Enter via ETC lane and exit via manual lane - passable without charge. ETC usage precautions: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. When following another vehicle, maintain at least 10 meters distance to prevent accidental payment for the vehicle ahead in case its ETC device malfunctions or is absent. The ETC lane recognition speed limit is 20km/h. Excessive speed will prevent vehicle device information from being read, resulting in failed payment. Unauthorized OBU device movement, detached or loose ETC electronic tags will cause deactivation. These can be inspected at the bank where the ETC card was issued or at highway service centers. Non-deliberate detachment only requires reactivation.

[OmarFitz]

During the toll-free period, just use the ETC lane with your ETC as usual, it's equally convenient. As someone who frequently drives, I directly take the ETC-exclusive lane during holiday toll-free policies, and the system automatically recognizes the vehicle information without charging. Before entering the toll station, check the road signs to avoid mistakenly going to the manual lane and causing congestion. Maintain a speed of around 20km/h, ensure the OBU device is properly powered on and securely attached to the windshield without loosening. If the device runs out of power or malfunctions, the system might get stuck, causing delays that require manual handling. The advantage is even more obvious during toll-free periods, as manual lanes often have long queues while ETC lanes are usually empty, saving over half an hour. It's recommended to check the balance and device status via the ETC card mobile app before traveling to ensure a smooth pass. From a safety perspective, maintain a proper distance to avoid rear-end collisions, especially in rainy or foggy conditions with low visibility. Overall, ETC is more hassle-free and efficient during toll-free periods, and I always prioritize using it.

[VanDawson]

During holidays when highways are toll-free, as a travel enthusiast, I particularly enjoy using ETC for more efficient trips. The ETC lane is unobstructed, allowing direct passage without stopping as the system automatically lets you through without charging. Manual lanes are packed with vehicles, leading to long queues that waste precious travel time, especially at popular scenic spot exits where the ETC lane takes just seconds. Before entering, check the signs to choose the ETC entrance, maintain a steady speed of about 15 to 20 km/h for proper OBU device detection—same applies when exiting. Ensure the device is securely installed without looseness or dead battery; otherwise, you’ll have to switch to a manual lane for free passage, but it’s a hassle. With heavy holiday traffic, ETC helps avoid congestion and records your route for easier return trips. Before traveling, I always check the device’s battery and prepare snacks and water cups with my family for the journey.

[Hallie]

From a technological perspective, the ETC passage during highway toll-free periods is highly intelligent and fully automated. The ETC system utilizes radio frequency technology where toll station antennas scan the vehicle's OBU tag for automatic identification and free passage without charging. When driving through the ETC lane at a steady speed, the system quickly recognizes the vehicle, avoiding human errors as the toll-free period settings switch to free mode. Ensure the OBU device is not too far from the antenna and remains powered on; otherwise, recognition failure may require manual processing, though the toll-free status remains unchanged. This reliable technology reduces queuing and saves time.