Is ETC Mandatory on Highways?
2 Answers
Vehicles without ETC can still use highways because ETC installation is not compulsory. Since January 1, 2020, drivers without ETC must pay tolls through manual lanes at toll stations. This might be slightly inconvenient during holidays. ETC is merely an alternative payment method and does not affect highway access. There are two toll collection methods on highways: manual toll collection and ETC toll collection. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection. To apply, you need to provide the vehicle owner's valid ID card and original/copy of the vehicle registration certificate. If applying through an agent, the agent's valid ID card is also required. The copy of the vehicle registration certificate must include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, you need a bank card for toll deductions, and the applicant must be aged between 18 and 60 years old. The vehicle must be registered under a personal name. How ETC works: An onboard electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield communicates with microwave antennas in ETC lanes at toll stations. Using computer networking technology, it settles payments with the bank in the background, allowing vehicles to pass through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping to pay. Benefits of installing ETC: Time-saving: Eliminates the hassle of waiting in queues; Eco-friendly: Promotes green and low-carbon travel by reducing noise and exhaust emissions since vehicles don't idle at toll stations; Cost-efficient: Lowers operational costs by reducing the frequency of vehicle starts and stops, thereby minimizing wear and fuel consumption; Improved efficiency: ETC lanes can theoretically increase traffic efficiency by 2-3 times, making traditional ETC systems more advanced, faster, and higher-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous.
As a seasoned driver with ten years of experience who frequently uses highways, I can honestly say that ETC is not absolutely necessary. You can always take the manual toll lane and pay with cash or by scanning a QR code—no one will stop you. However, I find ETC genuinely convenient, especially during peak hours when you can avoid long queues. The barrier lifts instantly, saving time, and you also get a 5% discount. For someone like me who drives long distances daily, it adds up to hundreds of yuan in fuel savings per year. Just be sure to purchase your ETC device through official channels—don’t cheap out on knockoffs to avoid system malfunctions. Also, remember to periodically check the battery and card status of your ETC device to prevent failures when entering the highway. Overall, it’s a great option, but not mandatory.
