
The method to activate ETC is: 1. Follow the relevant ETC software; 2. Click on 'Online Activation' in the software and enter the vehicle and owner's information; 3. Activate and upload photos of the front and front face of the vehicle; 4. Insert and remove the ETC card from the device twice consecutively until the display shows 'Bluetooth Connected,' and it automatically indicates successful activation. Notes for using ETC: 1. Maintain a distance of more than 10 meters from the vehicle in front to prevent automatic sensing from charging the wrong vehicle; 2. When using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance may also cause payment failure; 3. The ETC lane recognizes vehicle speed at 20 km/h, and if the speed is too fast, it may fail to read the vehicle's device information, leading to payment failure.

Right after I applied for the ETC device, I managed to activate it at home. First, I stuck the device on the black grid area of the front windshield, making sure it was level. Then, I turned on the phone's Bluetooth and opened the downloaded ETC app, logging into my account via WeChat scan. In the app, I selected 'New Device Activation' and followed the prompts to upload photos of my driver's license and the front of the car. Next, I linked a credit card as the payment method—it's important to choose a card with QuickPass functionality for security. After submitting, I waited a few minutes for system approval, and when the device's green light started flashing, it meant activation was successful. But don't rush to the highway just yet; test the ETC card slot by inserting and removing a bank card four or five times to ensure you hear the beep response, confirming everything's working properly.

The most dreaded part of activating ETC is device malfunction, but I have a practical procedure. Remove the adhesive backing film from the device and firmly attach it to the windshield on the right side of the rearview mirror. Insert the stored-value card securely, then press and hold the side button for five seconds until the yellow and blue lights flash alternately. At this point, use the ETC section in your mobile banking app to enter the device number and license plate number, and select 'Activate Now.' The system will prompt you to operate the OBU device for Bluetooth pairing—ensure your phone stays within half a meter of the device. Once approved, review the contract terms, especially the monthly free passage limit to avoid exceeding it. Finally, drive to a toll station for testing; it's advisable to try it in a manual lane where staff can immediately confirm the device's status.

Activating ETC is so convenient now, it can be done directly through WeChat. Follow the official account of your provincial expressway, and find the ETC service entry in the menu bar. Follow the instructions to enter your license plate number, the owner's ID number, and contact phone number, then upload a 45-degree photo of your vehicle. Once the system automatically approves, select your preferred payment method: I used my CCB debit card, while others choose Alipay or WeChat for password-free payment. After submission, wait about half an hour until the device's indicator light changes from red to green, indicating successful activation. Remember to keep the device's solar panel facing outward, as prolonged blockage may lead to insufficient power. Toll bills can be checked on the 5th of each month via the official account, and electronic invoices can also be issued.


