
ETC can be processed at bank branches, expressway service areas, and other institutions. The application requires the original and photocopy of the vehicle owner's valid ID and vehicle license. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent's valid ID must also be provided. The photocopy of the vehicle license must include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. A postal card application form is required, as this credit card will be used to bind the ETC card. After obtaining the credit card, two transactions must be made, and with the POS receipts, the ETC on-board device can be collected and installed for free at designated postal outlets without any additional charges. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old and own a vehicle in their name. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. Here are the 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 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 black areas on the windshield and positions that may block the solar panel. Do not remove it randomly 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 randomly, 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 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 from the vehicle in front to avoid automatic toll payment for the preceding vehicle. The ETC lane recognizes a vehicle speed of 20 kilometers per hour. If the speed is too fast, the vehicle device information may not be read, resulting in failed toll deduction. When using a debit card bound to ETC, insufficient balance will also cause toll deduction to fail.

After driving for many years, I remember there are quite a variety of ETC application locations. The most common option is visiting major bank branches, such as Bank of China or Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, which have dedicated counters for ETC applications. Highway service areas are also a good choice – I once quickly processed mine at a Jinghu Expressway service station. If you need to find specific locations, just search "ETC application" or the relevant bank name on Baidu Maps or Gaode App, which will show nearby addresses and business hours. I recommend bringing your ID card, original vehicle license, and sometimes the vehicle registration certificate. When applying, remember to inquire about annual fee discounts – they can save you a lot on highway tolls. If there are no nearby options, the vehicle office is also a reliable location, usually taking just over 10 minutes to complete the process. Getting it done before driving can help you avoid long queues.

When I first bought a car, I was curious about where to apply for an ETC. After some research, I found there are actually multiple channels. Banks are the most convenient option, with designated branches like Bank of Communications or China Bank offering ETC service counters. The official websites of highway companies, such as China ETC Service Platform, can also list local addresses—just enter the city name to search. The method I used was downloading the WeChat mini-program 'Car Owner Services,' searching for ETC application inside, which automatically pushes nearby service points including specific addresses. Don’t forget to bring your driver’s license and a copy of your ID card. On-site installation is free, and it can save you time on highway tolls. When driving around, keep an eye out for road signs, as some ETC agents are located in urban-rural fringe areas.

Having worked in an auto repair shop for years, customers often ask about ETC service locations. Typically, banks such as Agricultural Bank or Postal Savings Bank have dedicated ETC counters, and service points are also set up near highway toll stations. Just bring your vehicle documents to fill out forms on-site, but avoid peak days to skip long queues. Modern outlets use machines for quick card installation.

In the early days of driving, ETC service locations were commonly found at vehicle offices. Nowadays, while online appointments are available, the actual service points are still at bank branches such as the Bank of China ETC counters or highway management office sites. I prefer going to familiar places, bringing along my documents to easily complete the process, with the benefit of convenient and time-saving highway access. Checking the official hotline can also provide precise locations.

When traveling with kids, I always want to quickly apply for an ETC. The branch of Industrial and Commercial Bank of China near my home offers ETC services, and the address can be found on the official website; highway service areas are also a good option. I save time by making an online appointment in advance, and remember to bring the vehicle license and ID card. After processing, driving becomes more convenient and eco-friendly. The related benefits include avoiding the hassle of cash change.


