Where is the appropriate place to apply for ETC?
3 Answers
ETC can be processed at bank branches, highway service areas, and other institutions. To apply, you need to provide the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and vehicle registration certificate. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent's valid ID card must also be provided. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page stamped with the most recent annual inspection seal. Additionally, a credit card application form is required; this credit card will be used to bind the ETC card. After obtaining the credit card, you can swipe it twice and use the POS receipt to collect and install the ETC onboard device for free at designated postal outlets, with no charges incurred during the process. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old and own a vehicle registered under their name. ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection, meaning electronic toll system. Below are the precautions for installing ETC: Do not obstruct the driver's 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 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, as it has a solar panel on the back for self-charging. Therefore, during installation, avoid the blacked-out areas on the windshield and positions that might block the solar panel. Once installed, do not remove it arbitrarily: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-tamper lever connected to a switch. After installation, the windshield will press this 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 avoid paying for the vehicle in front due to its faulty ETC device, maintain a distance of at least 10 meters from the vehicle ahead. The ETC lane recognizes vehicles at a speed of 20 km/h; driving too fast may result in failure to read the vehicle's device information, leading to failed toll deductions. When using a debit card to bind ETC, insufficient balance may also cause toll deduction failures.
Last time I applied for an ETC, I chose a major bank, and the whole process was incredibly convenient. I just brought my ID card and vehicle license to the bank branch, filled out a form, and the staff installed the OBU device on-site. The entire process took less than half an hour and was completely free. The ETC has saved me a lot of time by avoiding queues on the highway, making holiday trips much smoother. I find the bank's service reliable, with warranty coverage for the device, unlike some gas stations that charge high fees or have sloppy procedures. An added benefit is that linking it to a bank card earns points or discounts on toll fees. While you can also apply for ETC through apps like Alipay, the face-to-face service at the bank feels more reassuring. Overall, banks are a great choice, especially for busy professionals with tight schedules.
As a frequent driver, I believe the official highway service points are the most suitable places to apply for ETC. Prepare copies of your ID card and vehicle license, as the service points are efficient and free of charge. The OBU device installation is professional, ensuring stable signal reception and avoiding misreads. In comparison, banks may be convenient but could involve long queues, while app-based services like WeChat mini-programs that mail the device to your home are faster but prone to installation errors for beginners. ETC improves traffic efficiency and offers high safety standards. It's best to check with customer service in advance to confirm the operating hours of service points to avoid unnecessary trips. Getting ETC before a long journey is a wise decision.
