Where to Apply for a Car ETC?

[SaraLee]

ETC can be applied for at bank branches, online banking platforms, or highway service areas. 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 made by someone other than the owner, the agent's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, a bank debit card application form is needed. The debit card is used to bind the ETC card. After obtaining the debit card, you can go to designated bank branches 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. Documents required for company-owned vehicles: An 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 registration certificate; and the vehicle requiring ETC. You can also apply online: Since most 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 notes for ETC installation: Do not obstruct the driver's view. It is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have steeply angled windshields, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. Installing the ETC without considering this may increase 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, avoid installing it on the blackened areas of the windshield or where the solar panel might be blocked. Once installed, do not remove it casually: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-removal lever connected to a switch. After installation, the windshield presses the lever in. If removed, 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.

[StValentina]

After driving for so many years, ETC has really saved me a lot of time on highways, and the service points are quite diverse. Banks are my top recommendation for getting started—institutions like ICBC or China Construction Bank offer ETC services. Just bring your ID card, driver’s license, and vehicle registration certificate to the counter, and they’ll typically install the device for free and activate it for you, all in under half an hour. Highway service areas are another great option—you can get it done while passing through a toll station, saving time and hassle. Online methods are particularly popular now: use the WeChat ETC mini-program or search for ETC services on Alipay, upload your documents, and the device will be mailed to your home. Just follow the instructions to attach it, and you’re good to go. Don’t forget to link a bank card for automatic payments, and be sure to choose a reliable, well-known platform to avoid issues later. If the device malfunctions, you can return to the bank or service station for inspection and repairs. These service points are easy to find—just search on a map—and prioritize free installations for an economical and worry-free experience.

[Vieira]

As a cautious car owner, I believe it's important to choose safe and reliable channels when applying for ETC. The official ETC service centers are the most secure option, typically located near urban transportation hubs and easily found using navigation apps. Banks are also a good choice, but make sure they are authorized partners—bring your ID card and original vehicle license to complete the formalities and avoid scams from small online platforms. For online applications, I recommend using official apps like ETC Assistant to ensure your information remains secure. After installing the device, always test it to confirm it's firmly attached and functioning properly. When linking a bank card for automatic payments, opt for low-risk options and regularly check statements to spot any errors. If you move or change vehicles, visit a service point to update your details. Choosing these methods not only speeds up the process but also safeguards your privacy and financial security. Fewer malfunctions on the highway mean a more worry-free journey.

[KaiLee]

When applying for ETC, I always want to save money, so free installation is the best option. Bank channels are the most cost-effective, with Bank of China or Agricultural Bank offering this service. Just bring your documents and apply directly without spending a penny. Online platforms are also economical, like the ETC mini-program on WeChat, which offers free device delivery to your home, saving you fuel and hassle. Adding ETC when buying a new car at a 4S store is even more convenient, eliminating extra effort. Avoid paid service points—they're a waste of money. When linking a bank card, choose options without annual fees, like some credit cards that offer points redemption to save extra costs. Once you get the device, stick it on your windshield and activate it via your phone. ETC not only speeds up toll crossings but also saves time, which translates to fuel savings—a worthwhile investment in the long run. Apply early to enjoy the convenience sooner.

[McAlaina]

When I first got my driver's license and bought a car, I was completely confused about ETC. The 4S store salesperson told me to take my driver's license and the vehicle's green book to a bank or ETC service point to apply. I chose a nearby China Construction Bank, where the teller guided me step by step through filling out the forms, and they helped install the device and activate it on the spot. I also tried the online method: using Alipay's ETC function, I entered the vehicle information, took photos, and uploaded them. A few days later, the device arrived, and I just followed the video tutorial to stick it on and start using it. The first time I drove on the highway and saw the green light flash as I passed through was truly a pleasant surprise. New drivers should definitely get ETC early to avoid the anxiety of queuing at toll stations. Preparing the materials is very simple—mainly your ID card and the original vehicle documents. Choose a spot near the rearview mirror on the front windshield for installation, keeping it clean and unobstructed. Remember to confirm the activation status after setup for safe driving.