What documents are required to apply for ETC?
2 Answers
To apply for ETC, you need to prepare the following documents: the vehicle owner's valid ID card, driver's license and vehicle registration certificate. If the applicant is not the owner, the agent's valid ID card and the current year's vehicle insurance policy are also required. For corporate applications, the handler's ID card (or driver's license), the organization's institutional code certificate (or business license), and the official seal are needed. Vehicle owners can apply for ETC through Alipay or WeChat appointment, or go to banks for free processing, or visit ETC self-operated outlets and some highway service areas. ETC can be linked to either a debit card or credit card. Please note that if binding a debit card, there needs to be a certain amount of available balance in the account as a deposit.
Oh, last time I went to the bank to apply for ETC was quite a hassle. Remember to bring the original ID card of the vehicle owner and that blue vehicle registration booklet—these two are mandatory. I forgot to bring the supplementary page of the registration last time and had to make a wasted trip. Nowadays, it mostly requires linking a bank card, and most banks accept either their own credit or debit cards, though the expressway card can also be topped up via WeChat or Alipay. It’s even more troublesome if you’re driving a company car—you’ll need a letter of authorization with the company seal. I’d recommend going directly to a major bank branch, as they can also help you install the OBU device on the spot. Recently, I found that some gas stations also offer the service—just bring all the required documents, and it’s done in ten minutes, much faster than queuing at the bank.
