Is the National Day Holiday Expressway Toll-Free?
2 Answers
During the National Day holiday, the expressway is toll-free. In 2020, the toll-free period for the National Day holiday expressway starts from 00:00 on October 1st and ends at 24:00 on October 8th, totaling 8 days. For ordinary highways, the toll-free period is determined by the time when the vehicle passes through the toll lane of the toll station, while for expressways, it is determined by the time when the vehicle exits the toll lane. The toll-free vehicles on expressways include passenger vehicles with 7 seats or fewer (including 7 seats) that travel on toll roads, as well as motorcycles allowed on ordinary toll roads. The scope of toll-free expressways for local airport expressways must comply with the provisions of the Highway Law of the People's Republic of China and the Regulations on the Administration of Toll Roads, including toll roads (including toll bridges and tunnels) approved and established according to law. Whether local airport expressways implement toll-free policies is decided by the provincial (autonomous region or municipality) governments.
As an ordinary person who often drives for trips during the National Day holiday, I can confirm that highways are indeed free for small passenger vehicles, specifically from 00:00 on October 1st to 24:00 on the 7th, applicable to non-commercial vehicles with 7 seats or fewer. This policy makes holiday travel more convenient and worry-free, but the traffic volume is particularly heavy during the free period, and highway entrances often get jam-packed. Last year, my family and I got stuck for four or five hours on our trip, which was exhausting. I recommend planning your trip in advance to avoid peak hours, such as departing at 5 or 6 in the morning or choosing the evening. Also, pay attention to vehicle restrictions—trucks and large buses are not eligible for the free pass—and bring all necessary documents. Before setting off, use a navigation app to check traffic conditions and download the official highway notification app to confirm details and avoid misunderstandings that could cause trouble. Safe driving is the top priority, so prepare emergency supplies like water and food. Overall, make good use of the free benefit, but getting home safely is what matters most.