Where can I install ETC?
3 Answers
ETC can be processed at bank branches, expressway service areas, and other institutions. 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 is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle license should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. A Postal Savings credit card application form is needed, as this credit card will be used to bind the ETC card. After obtaining the credit card, swipe it twice and present the POS slip to a designated Postal Savings outlet to receive and install the ETC onboard device for free, with no additional charges. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old and own the vehicle in their name. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection 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 is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle license should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. A bank card for deducting expressway toll fees is needed. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old and own the vehicle in their name. 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 steeply angled windshield, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. If this is not considered during ETC installation, it may increase the driver's blind spots. Install it behind the rearview mirror on the right side 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 blackened 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-tamper lever connected to a switch. After installation, the windshield will press the anti-tamper 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 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 the ETC device of the vehicle in front from malfunctioning, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters to avoid automatic toll payment for the vehicle in front. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 kilometers per hour. Driving too fast may result in failure to read the vehicle's device information, leading to toll deduction failure. When using a debit card to bind ETC, insufficient balance may also cause toll deduction failure.
Last time I went on a trip, I installed an ETC at the service area on the Jingzang Expressway. They had a dedicated service point there. After filling out forms and signing agreements on-site, the staff directly attached the ETC device to the windshield using a device. The whole process took less than ten minutes. The key point is they offered instant activation service, saving me the hassle of driving back and forth repeatedly. After that, driving on the expressway became much easier with automatic toll deduction without stopping, especially useful during peak hours at toll stations. If you frequently drive like me, I recommend choosing service area installation points because they are directly connected to the traffic system, not only providing timely device updates but also offering basic cards for free.
As an expert with years of experience in the automotive field, I prefer installing ETC at 4S dealerships. These locations boast professional-grade equipment, where technicians first inspect your vehicle's circuit compatibility to ensure secure ETC installation without safety hazards. They typically utilize the latest devices, avoiding potential aging issues common at regular shops. The entire process takes approximately half an hour, with costs either included in vehicle purchase packages or charged as separate service fees, offering high cost-effectiveness. Don't forget to inquire about after-sales services such as warranty periods and free card renewal services, which prove particularly practical for older vehicles.
