Which Vehicles Are Toll-Free on Highways During the Spring Festival?
2 Answers
During the Spring Festival, tolls are waived for small passenger vehicles on highways. Below is relevant information regarding toll charges during the Spring Festival: 1. Non-Free Vehicles: According to national regulations on toll-free holidays, small passenger vehicles with 7 seats (inclusive) or fewer are toll-free, while passenger vehicles with more than 8 seats and small trucks (such as pickups, single-row small trucks, double-row small trucks, and vans) are required to pay tolls as stipulated. Failure to pay tolls as required may result in detection by highway inspection personnel during data screening. 2. Determining Toll-Free Times for Entering and Exiting Highways: The toll-free period is based on the time when the vehicle exits the highway toll lane. For ordinary roads, it is determined by the time the vehicle passes through the toll lane at the toll station. In other words, if you enter the highway during the toll period and exit during the toll-free period, you will not be charged. Conversely, if you enter during the toll-free period and exit during the toll period, you will be charged.
I remember driving my sedan back to my hometown during last year's Spring Festival, enjoying the toll-free expressway policy—it was awesome! Generally, only passenger vehicles with 7 seats or fewer qualify for the exemption, such as private cars and SUVs, while trucks and buses still have to pay. The free period usually falls around the Spring Festival holiday, with exact dates announced by the government each year. I checked the traffic app on my phone in advance to confirm and avoid disappointment. At the toll station, the system automatically recognized the exemption, so I smoothly entered the ETC lane without the hassle of manual queues. Traffic congestion was a major headache—last year, I set off at 5 a.m. and still got stuck for two hours, so I recommend traveling during off-peak hours, like late at night. Don’t forget to bring your vehicle registration and driver’s license in case of random checks. Car condition matters too—checking tires and brakes beforehand ensures a safer trip. These details make the journey more cost-effective and stress-free, making family reunions during the holidays even smoother.
