Where is the best place to apply for ETC?

[RubyMarie]

ETC can be processed at bank branches, online service points, or highway service areas. 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 should include the page stamped with the most recent annual inspection. Additionally, a bank debit card or credit card application form is needed to bind with the ETC card. After obtaining the card, you can go to the designated bank branch to receive and install the ETC onboard device for free, with no charges during the process. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old and own a vehicle in their name. Documents required for company vehicles: Introduction letter from the vehicle owner (with official seal); photocopy of the organization code certificate or business license (with official seal); original ID card of the agent; original vehicle license; the vehicle that needs ETC. You can also apply online, for example, by using mobile apps like WeChat or Alipay to search for ETC and follow the prompts to complete the application, or directly search for ETC application and proceed as instructed. Since various banks have their own online services and sections, they have launched online ETC application services for the convenience of vehicle owners, allowing applications to be made without leaving home. Here are some precautions for installing ETC: Do not obstruct the view; it's best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have a steeply inclined 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. Installing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side can 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 positions that may block the solar panel. Once installed, do not remove it arbitrarily: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-removal lever connected to a switch. After the electronic tag is installed, 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 go to an ETC service point to unlock it. This mechanism is designed to prevent multiple vehicles from sharing one device.

[RonanDella]

I'm the type who likes to shop around, so I did my homework before getting an ETC. Bank channels are the most reliable—banks like ICBC and CCB have dedicated counters, offering free devices plus a 5% toll discount, and I even got a credit card while I was at it. Highway service stations can also set you up—just five minutes to install the device when passing by, perfect for those in a hurry. Online options like Alipay and WeChat are quick too, but you have to install the device yourself, which I found bothersome. The key is to bring your vehicle license and ID card, and check the service locations in advance to avoid wasted trips. Nowadays, some gas stations also offer ETC services—just fill up your tank and get it done, but be sure to ask about discounts on-site.

[VonSavannah]

Last time I was stuck in a two-hour traffic jam on the highway, I made up my mind to get an ETC. I went directly to the bank at the entrance of my neighborhood, filled out a form, and got the device in half an hour. The staff even helped install it on the inside of the front windshield. Actually, bank policies vary quite a bit—some require a frozen deposit of 500 yuan, while others allow direct linkage to a savings card. Applying through Alipay is more convenient, but the device costs 96 yuan, making it less cost-effective than banks. If you frequently take long trips, I recommend applying for a credit card package with points redemption—it offers toll discounts and car wash vouchers. Don’t forget to activate the e-invoice function for hassle-free reimbursement.

[DelIris]

You can easily apply for ETC on your phone using your bank's app. Just upload photos of your ID card and vehicle license, and you'll receive the OBU device in three days. Follow the instructions to stick it behind the rearview mirror on the windshield. The WeChat channel also works, but it requires a small deposit. The key is to choose a secure spot to mount it, ensuring the solar charging panel isn't blocked. My neighbor got theirs at a highway toll booth—activation was quick on-site, but the device quality wasn't as good as the bank's. The newly issued ETC cards can even be used directly as credit cards, offering discounts on fuel purchases.