Where can I apply for ETC?
2 Answers
ETC can be applied for at bank branches, expressway service areas, and other institutions. To apply, you need to provide the original and photocopy 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 is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle license must include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, a postal credit card application form is needed, as the credit card will be used to bind the ETC card. After obtaining the credit card, swipe it twice and use the POS receipt to collect and install the ETC onboard device for free at designated postal outlets. No fees are charged during this process. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old and own a vehicle in their name. ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection, which means an electronic toll system. Here are some 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 on the windshield, which reduces the driver's field of vision. If this is not considered during ETC installation, it can 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 for self-charging. Therefore, during installation, avoid the blackened areas on the windshield and positions that may block the solar panel. 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 installation, the windshield will press the anti-removal lever in. If the tag 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 mechanism is designed to prevent multiple vehicles from sharing one device. When using ETC, note the following: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. To prevent issues caused by a malfunctioning ETC device in the vehicle ahead, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters to avoid automatic toll payment for the preceding vehicle. The ETC lane recognizes vehicle speeds of up to 20 km/h. Speeding may result in failure to read the vehicle's device information and toll deduction failure. When using a debit card to bind ETC, insufficient balance will also cause toll deduction failure.
There are many places to apply for ETC. I usually go to banks like Bank of China or China Merchants Bank. Last time, I applied at ICBC. I brought my ID card and vehicle license, filled out a form at the counter, and the staff helped install the OBU device. The whole process took less than half an hour, and they even gave me a discount card for highway tolls. After installation, driving on the highway is so convenient—no need to queue at toll stations, and the response is incredibly fast. Remember to choose a bank that's close by for easy follow-up on bills or maintenance. If the bank is crowded, you can make an appointment in advance to save time. ETC not only saves time but also money, and accumulated points can be exchanged for gifts, making it perfect for frequent long-distance drivers like me. Just make sure the installation doesn't block the windshield view, and check the device connection regularly.
