What are the methods to activate an ETC tag?
2 Answers
ETC tag activation methods: Insert and remove the ETC card twice consecutively until the electronic tag screen displays "Bluetooth is on". If "Tag invalid" appears when inserting and removing twice without the electronic tag attached, this is normal and does not affect activation. Alternatively, you can directly press the button on the top of the electronic tag to enable the Bluetooth function. Turn on the mobile phone's Bluetooth, open the corresponding mobile APP (usually there is a download QR code on the electronic tag), and enter the device activation interface. Click on device connection and patiently wait for the "Connection successful" prompt. After successful connection, upload a photo of the vehicle's front to complete activation. ETC installation process: Upon receiving the device, first check if the ETC card and electronic tag (OBU) are damaged. Press the anti-tamper button on the back of the OBU; the red light will briefly turn on, and the OLED screen will display "Tag invalid" or "Please insert card", indicating the device is functioning properly. Clean the front windshield, ensuring the glass surface is smooth, clean, and dry. Then peel off the OBU's adhesive backing and stick it to the installation position, pressing firmly for 2-3 minutes to remove any air bubbles. Insert the ETC card with the front facing the driver and the back facing the front glass, ensuring the chip is inserted into the OBU device.
Last time I helped a friend activate their ETC, I remember there were several common methods. One is to go directly to a bank or ETC service center: they install the tag on your car's windshield and then bind it to your bank card on the spot through their system, getting it done in no time. Another method is through a mobile app, such as a bank's official app or a dedicated ETC application. After registering an account, you scan the tag's QR code, enter the license plate and owner information, and verify the payment method—it's quite convenient. Some highway service points also offer activation services: you drive there, and staff use specialized equipment to detect the tag and check if the signal is stable. During activation, make sure to park your car in an open area to avoid interference, and test whether the toll gate can lift normally—don't wait until you need it to find out it's not working. If the tag was purchased online, you might need to follow the platform's instructions to activate it after placing the order. The key to the whole process is ensuring the payment account is functional; otherwise, toll payments might fail, affecting your travel plans.
