Is it not allowed to drive on the highway without ETC?

[LaCameron]

You can pass through the highway without an ETC. Because ETC is not mandatory to install. Since January 1, 2020, when passing through toll stations, you can only pay the toll through manual lanes. It might be a bit inconvenient during holidays. ETC is just a different payment method and has nothing to do with whether you can drive on the highway. There are two types of toll collection methods on highways: one is manual toll collection, and the other is ETC toll collection. ETC is the abbreviation for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply for ETC, you need to provide the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and driving license. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the driving license should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, a bank card for deducting highway tolls is needed. The applicant must be between 18 and 60 years old and the vehicle must be registered under a personal name. How ETC works: Through the onboard 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 the payment with the bank in the background, allowing the vehicle to pass through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping to pay the toll. Benefits of installing ETC: Time-saving: Avoid the hassle of waiting in line; Green and eco-friendly: Green and low-carbon, as vehicles pass through toll stations without stopping, reducing noise and exhaust emissions and pollution; Cost-saving: Reduce costs, decrease the frequency of vehicle starts and stops, minimize wear and fuel consumption, and users can enjoy toll discounts; Improved efficiency: The ETC lane's efficiency can theoretically increase 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.

[VanCorey]

As a family driver who usually drives children to school, I found that it's completely possible to use highways without an ETC, but you must use the manual toll lanes to pay the fee. Highway entrances have clear signs separating ETC and manual lanes, and users without ETC can pay with cash or mobile QR code scanning. However, during peak hours, the waiting time can be very long. Once during the National Day holiday, I was in a hurry to take my child to see a doctor and waited over 20 minutes in the manual lane, even encountering a chaotic situation where the car in front didn't have enough cash, which affected my travel mood. Later, after installing an ETC, passing through toll stations only takes a few seconds of slowing down, greatly improving efficiency, and I can also enjoy a 5% to 10% discount on toll fees. Regulations do not force all drivers to install ETCs, as manual lanes are retained for emergencies or temporary users, but I recommend regular drivers to apply early to save trouble. Remember, focusing on safety while driving is most important to avoid distractions.

[BethanyLee]

During long-distance transportation, I found that it's allowed to enter the highway without an ETC. There are dedicated manual lanes at the entrance for cash or mobile payments, although the efficiency is lower. ETC has exclusive lanes for automatic fee deduction, saving time and effort, and also offers some fee discounts that can add up to significant savings. As a driver frequently on the road, queuing up at the manual lane for payment wastes at least 10 minutes each time, causing delays that accumulate and have a major impact, especially during nighttime travel. I recommend everyone, whether they frequently use the highway or not, to prepare an ETC as a backup to avoid unexpected congestion and potential safety hazards. In terms of policy, highway management retains multiple payment methods with a user-friendly design, but digitalization is the trend, with efficiency improvement being the key.

[McRonan]

When I was a new driver, I specifically researched this issue. You can still pay highway tolls without ETC by using cash or scanning QR codes at manual toll lanes. However, ETC is more convenient and time-saving, allowing automatic fee deduction at toll stations like an assembly line, eliminating the hassle of manual payment. It's safer as it helps drivers stay focused on the road, avoiding distractions that could lead to accidents. I think installation is simple - just visit a bank or online platform, and it only takes a few minutes to set up. It's cost-effective for long-term use. Clear signage at highway entrances ensures smooth passage for everyone.

[Shelley]

From a cost-performance perspective, driving on highways without ETC is indeed possible, offering flexible payment options such as cash or electronic payments. However, one must endure long queues at manual toll lanes, resulting in higher time costs. ETC users enjoy fare discounts and, more importantly, save time with faster passage. During peak travel seasons, I've personally witnessed queues that can exceed half an hour, wasting precious travel time. As a budget-conscious individual, I've calculated that the initial ETC installation cost of a few dozen yuan can save over a hundred yuan in toll fees annually, while also avoiding additional consumption. I recommend installing ETC as the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, allowing you to enjoy digital convenience. However, since policies do not mandate it, traditional methods remain available for choice. Safety comes first on highways, and avoiding impatient driving is fundamental.

[Mallory]

With my extensive driving experience, I recall the days when highways relied solely on cash payments. Now, ETC has become widespread, but you can still use manual lanes for toll payment without it. There are multiple payment options available, including WeChat and Alipay. ETC enhances overall efficiency and reduces the risk of traffic congestion. I’ve witnessed several accidents in manual lanes due to drivers being distracted during payment. I recommend adopting the ETC solution—it saves money and hassle while modernizing highway management. However, maintaining redundant mechanisms ensures fairness and inclusivity for all users, optimizing travel experiences. Above all, it’s crucial to follow the rules to guarantee safety.