What to Do with ETC After Changing License Plates?
2 Answers
After changing license plates, ETC becomes unusable. You can take it to an ETC service center or an ETC processing center to deactivate the ETC. Once deactivation is successful, reactivate the ETC device and input the new information. At the same time, bind the ETC card to the new license plate to resume usage. ETC Installation Method: Sensor Installation. ETC devices are uniformly installed on the front windshield inside the car, near the rearview mirror. They come with plastic suction cups to attach to the windshield. Choose an installation position that does not obstruct the front view while driving. Sensor Wiring Installation. Plug the sensor's wiring connector into the sensor's port. The wiring is connected via the car's internal network, branching out from the vehicle's smart information system. Route the wiring along the car's headliner without needing to dismantle the interior—simply press it into place to neatly conceal the wires. Insert the Card into the ETC Sensor. Gently insert the side of the card with the chip into the ETC sensor's card slot. The Sensor Detects the Chip and Reads the Express Card. If the card is inserted correctly, the sensor's display will light up and show "Start Billing," indicating a successful connection between the sensor and the Express Card. How ETC Works: Through the on-board electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield, it communicates via dedicated short-range communication with the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at toll stations. Using computer networking technology, it processes backend settlements with banks, allowing vehicles to pass through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping while automatically paying the toll fees.
After changing license plates, the ETC must be updated. I just went through this and want to share my experience. My car got new plates, but the old ETC failed at the highway entrance—the gate wouldn’t open, forcing me to queue manually and delaying my trip. Later, I visited the bank’s ETC counter or service center with the new license plate details, ID card, and a copy of the vehicle registration. I filled out a change application form, and the staff updated the new plate binding in minutes. Some places offer online APP services where you can upload photos to complete the process. However, older devices might require on-site debugging. I recommend handling this on the same day as the plate change to avoid highway misidentification or billing errors. Also, regularly check the ETC device during maintenance to ensure the battery works properly without draining the car’s power. In short, timely updates save hassle—don’t end up in a last-minute mess like I did.
