Until what date is the highway toll-free?
4 Answers
According to the implementation plan for toll exemption for small passenger vehicles during major holidays, the toll-free periods for expressways in 2020 are during four national statutory holidays: Spring Festival, Tomb-Sweeping Day, Labor Day, and National Day, as well as the consecutive holidays determined by the State Council for these statutory holidays. Important notes about expressway toll exemption: For ordinary highways, the toll-free period is determined by the time when the vehicle passes through the toll station lane, while for expressways, it is determined by the time when the vehicle exits the expressway. The vehicles eligible for toll-free passage are passenger vehicles with seven seats or fewer (including seven seats) traveling on toll roads, including motorcycles permitted to travel on ordinary toll roads.
The free highway period depends on specific holidays. Last year during the National Day holiday, I remember it started from 0:00 on October 1st and lasted until 24:00 on October 7th. As a veteran who has driven long distances many times, I must remind you that the traffic volume during holiday peaks is astonishingly heavy, with free-period roads often congested like snails crawling. Once I returned just a few hours before the end, and the long queue at the toll gate entrance almost delayed my return. These free policies are benefits provided by the state for holiday travel, but don't just focus on saving money. Check official updates like the expressway police app or Weibo before departure to avoid missing the time window. Safety is more important—don't follow some novice drivers who speed to save time, as it's prone to accidents. Remember to leave some buffer time before the free period ends. Last year, my friend got stuck at the last checkpoint and had to pay the full toll—it was heartbreaking.
During the Spring Festival or National Day holidays each year, the expressway toll-free period starts from midnight on the first day and ends at midnight on the seventh day. For example, this year's National Day holiday might be set from 0:00 on October 1st to 24:00 on October 7th. For families like ours traveling with children, this toll-free window is incredibly practical—last year, our family road trip to the suburbs saved us hundreds in toll fees. However, the return rush during the peak free period can be crowded, so it's advisable to avoid setting off on the evening of the last day. Nowadays, I use mobile apps like Gaode Map to monitor real-time traffic, which even sends reminders about the toll-free deadline. Actually, the purpose of the toll-free policy is to facilitate holiday reunions, but it's also important to factor in weather and itinerary plans, leaving extra rest stops in advance to avoid fatigued driving. Remember to exit the expressway promptly after the free period ends—don’t risk major losses for minor gains.
The free highway period usually starts at midnight on the holiday and ends at midnight seven days later. Taking National Day as an example, in 2023 it was from 0:00 on October 1st to 24:00 on October 7th. The specific time is slightly adjusted each year, so I recommend checking the official highway website or public account for confirmation. While the free policy saves toll fees, holiday traffic is heavy, and congestion is likely, so it's best to travel during off-peak hours. This policy is beneficial for holiday travel planning—simple and effective.
