What documents are needed to install ETC and where to apply?

[DiAmara]

ETC can be processed at bank branches or highway service areas. The application requires the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and vehicle license. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent's valid ID card must also be provided. The photocopy of the vehicle license must include the page with the latest annual inspection stamp. A Postal Savings credit card application form is required, which will be used to bind the ETC card. After obtaining the credit card, swipe it twice and present the POS receipt to the designated Postal Savings outlet to receive and install the ETC on-board device for free, with no charges incurred during the process. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old and own a vehicle in their name. ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection, meaning an electronic toll system. The application requires the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and vehicle license. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent's valid ID card must also be provided. The photocopy of the vehicle license must include the page with the latest annual inspection stamp. A bank card for deducting highway toll fees is also required. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old and own a vehicle in their name. Here are the precautions for installing ETC: Do not obstruct the view; it is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have a large rearward tilt angle of the windshield, which reduces the driver's field of vision. If this is not considered during ETC installation, it will increase the driver's blind spots. Install it on the right side behind the rearview mirror to avoid obstructing the view. Do not interfere with charging: The ETC electronic tag consumes power but generally does not require charging or battery replacement because it has a solar panel on the back that can charge itself. Therefore, during installation, avoid the black areas on the windshield and do not place it where the solar panel might be easily blocked. Do not remove it arbitrarily once installed: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-removal lever connected to a switch. After the electronic tag is installed, the windshield will press the anti-removal lever in. If it is removed arbitrarily, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering it unusable. You will then need to visit an ETC service point to unlock it. This is designed to prevent multiple vehicles from sharing one device. Precautions for using ETC: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. To prevent the ETC device of the vehicle in front from malfunctioning, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters from the vehicle in front to avoid automatic toll payment for the preceding vehicle. The recognition speed for ETC lanes is 20 kilometers per hour. Driving too fast may prevent the vehicle's device information from being read, leading to toll deduction failure. When using a debit card to bind ETC, insufficient balance will also cause toll deduction failure.

[WyattLee]

Installing an ETC is really not difficult. I drove straight to the bank, where they have a dedicated counter to help you with the process. As for documents, you need to bring your ID card and the original vehicle registration certificate, along with a bank card for payment binding. I used a China Construction Bank card for deduction, which was very convenient. Remember to make a copy of your documents as a backup. The bank staff will check your vehicle information to ensure everything matches. Besides banks, some ETC service centers also offer installation services. I later found out that there are service points at highway toll station rest areas. If it's crowded on weekends, making an appointment in advance can save time. After installing the ETC, highway trips became much easier with less time spent in queues. Monthly deductions are transparent, eliminating the hassle of cash change. During regular maintenance, you can also check the device to prevent unexpected malfunctions—after all, safe driving is the top priority. Since I installed mine, long-distance trips have become much smoother. A little effort goes a long way in bringing great convenience—it's totally worth it.

[JaxonRose]

As someone who frequently tinkers with cars, I believe the key to installing ETC is preparing the necessary documents: the vehicle owner's ID card must belong to either the owner or an authorized person, and the original vehicle registration certificate is a must. Sometimes banks may also require a bank card—for instance, my experience with China Construction Bank only needed a debit card to get it done. In terms of locations, it's not just banks like ICBC or Postal Savings Bank; nowadays, many ETC service points are available, even at service stations near highway entrances where dedicated staff can assist. I also noticed that during the process, verifying the license plate number is crucial to avoid incorrect installation. After installation, the ETC device is typically affixed to the front windshield, and it's important to test whether the sensor is functioning properly. I recommend everyone install ETC—it helps avoid peak-hour traffic jams, saves money and effort, and is environmentally friendly by reducing exhaust emissions. Remember to check your account balance regularly to avoid arrears, which could lead to restricted access. Newcomers should pay close attention to these details.

[VanAnastasia]

I was so nervous when installing the ETC, thinking I'd have to run around to multiple places. But it turned out only three documents were needed: my ID card, vehicle registration certificate, and a bank card (I used an Agricultural Bank card) – done easily. You can go to a nearby bank branch for free device installation, or visit an ETC service center commonly found in urban areas. I got mine done at a community service point where the staff patiently taught me how to use it. After installation, highway access became much more convenient – no more wasting time in queues, especially safer for winter rainy-night travels. Remember to keep copies of your documents safe to avoid troublesome reapplication if lost. The whole process took just half an hour. I recommend checking service points in advance to prevent unnecessary trips.