Is ETC Required for Highway Access?
4 Answers
Highway access is possible without ETC. Because ETC is not mandatory for installation. Since January 1, 2020, vehicles without ETC will no longer enjoy various toll reduction policies and can only pay tolls through manual lanes at toll stations. It may be somewhat inconvenient during holidays. ETC is just a different toll collection method and has no bearing on whether a vehicle can access the highway. There are two toll collection methods on highways: manual toll collection and ETC toll collection. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply, you need to provide the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and vehicle registration certificate. If the application is not made by the owner, a valid ID card of the agent is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page with the latest annual inspection stamp; a bank card for deducting highway tolls; the applicant must be between 18 and 60 years old; and the vehicle must be registered under an individual's name. How ETC works: Through the on-board electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield, it communicates with the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at the toll station. Using computer networking technology, it settles accounts with the bank in the background, allowing vehicles to pay highway or bridge tolls without stopping when passing through toll stations. Benefits of installing ETC: Saves time: Eliminates the hassle of waiting in line; Green and eco-friendly: Low-carbon, as vehicles pass through toll stations without stopping, reducing noise and exhaust emissions and pollution; Reduces wear and tear: Saves costs by decreasing the frequency of vehicle starts and stops, reducing wear and fuel consumption, and users can enjoy toll discounts; Improves efficiency: The efficiency of ETC lanes can theoretically be increased by 2-3 times or more, making traditional ETC updates faster and more high-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous.
As a seasoned highway driver, I must say you don't necessarily need ETC for expressways—manual lanes are usually still available—but I highly recommend getting one. Nowadays, many highway entrances have faster ETC lanes that save time and effort. From personal experience: while waiting in long queues at manual toll booths, my ETC-equipped vehicle zips through seamlessly, eliminating cash payment hassles. Installation is straightforward—just apply for the free device at your bank, and you'll enjoy a 5% toll discount, saving substantial money long-term. Environmentally, contactless tolling reduces emissions, benefiting society. My advice to new car owners: install ETC early, as the trend points toward full ETC adoption—some Beijing sections already exclusively use it. Highway safety comes first, and ETC lanes' streamlined design minimizes rear-end collision risks. In short, while not mandatory, installing ETC is all gain, no loss.
When I first bought a car and drove on the highway, I was worried about whether I should install an ETC. Actually, ETC is not mandatory for highway use now, as there are manual toll booths where you can pay with cash or Alipay. But as a new driver, I recommend installing it because ETC allows you to pass through without stopping, which is super convenient and avoids operational mistakes when you're nervous as a beginner. The installation process is simple—just apply through a WeChat mini-program and link your bank card, and the device is provided for free. There are many benefits: discounts on toll fees save you money, and during peak hours, you avoid queues, saving fuel and time. If you don’t install it, waiting in long lines at manual lanes could waste half an hour. Additionally, ETC allows you to check records on your phone, making trips more reassuring for new drivers. Safety is crucial on the highway, and ETC reduces the chance of accidents caused by stopping, making nighttime driving more stable. Get used to it early to make your journeys smoother.
As a tech enthusiast, I find using ETC on highways quite intriguing. While not mandatory, it's highly recommended as it leverages RFID technology to enable seamless passage, boosting efficiency and reducing emissions—fewer stops mean fuel savings and less pollution. Installing ETC is straightforward with online setup, unlike the hassle of cash and toll tickets. The future trend points to smart highways, where 5G integration will further enhance ETC capabilities. Personally, the joy of ETC lies in its frictionless experience, saving precious minutes during peak hours compared to manual lanes. On highways, ETC lanes eliminate stops, reducing driver fatigue. Broader perspective: Societally, widespread ETC adoption optimizes traffic flow and lowers accident rates. Equipping it is both efficient and wise.
