Is ETC still free to apply for now?
3 Answers
As of May 2020, there are no free ETC applications available, as free ETC processing was discontinued at the end of 2019. The details are as follows: 1. Promotional measures: To encourage vehicle owners to actively apply for ETC, a series of measures were introduced in 2019 in collaboration with telecommunications companies. Users could apply for ETC for free, and those using ETC were given a 5% discount on toll fees, with some routes offering a 15% discount for trucks. 2. Limited to the end of 2019: Various partner banks also continuously rolled out promotional measures for applying and using ETC to attract customers. It is reported that the free ETC application policy was only available until the end of 2019. After January 1, 2020, vehicle owners could no longer apply for ETC for free.
I just helped a friend apply for an ETC a few days ago, and it seems it's still free now! You can apply through the bank's app without spending a penny, and the bank directly provides the tag device. I've been using ETC for several years myself, and it's incredibly convenient—zooming through highway toll stations without queuing saves so much time and makes driving much more relaxing. Plus, you get a 5% discount on toll fees, which adds up to significant fuel savings over a year. I recommend checking if your regular bank has any promotions, as most platforms now offer ETC for free. Just be aware that there might be a small service fee when binding a credit or debit card, so choose a reliable institution to avoid extra costs. After installation, make sure not to misalign the tag, or the signal might be unstable—driving becomes so much easier with it.
As a mom who often takes my kids out, I think getting an ETC is basically free now with no extra costs. I applied at a CCB branch near my home—the tag and equipment were all given for free, and the process was simple: just fill out a form and link a bank card. ETC is super practical for family trips, especially during holiday traffic jams on the highway. The ETC lane lets you pass several minutes earlier, saving a lot of hassle. Cost-wise, there’s usually no big issue, but when applying online, read the terms carefully—some niche platforms may charge installation or annual fees. It’s safer to stick with big-name banks. After installation, driving becomes safer since you don’t need to handle cash and get distracted. I recommend giving it a try—the energy you save from parenting can be used to enjoy more of your kid’s adorable expressions.
