Taiwan Toll Roads Complete Guide: eTag, ETC & Payment 2025
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Taiwan Toll Roads Complete Guide
System: Distance-based Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) with Free Flow
Coverage: National Freeways 1, 3, 5, and 3A (odd-numbered freeways only)
Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (NT$)
Technology: eTag RFID transponders, overhead gantries, license plate recognition
Operators: Far Eastern Electronic Toll Collection Company (FETC)
Do I Need eTag for Taiwan? 2025 Update
No, you don't need eTag to drive on Taiwan's freeways - but you'll pay 10% more without it. Taiwan operates the world's first fully electronic, multi-lane free-flow toll system on all National Freeways, with no traditional toll booths since 2014.
Key Reality: Without eTag, you'll pay full rates and must settle tolls within 3 days at convenience stores or receive bills by mail. eTag users get automatic 10% discounts and seamless travel at normal freeway speeds.
2025 Update: Taiwan continues leading global electronic tolling innovation with enhanced free-flow technology. All tolls calculated at midnight daily with 48-hour deduction cycles for eTag users.
Taiwan Toll Costs: Current Rates
Taiwan operates distance-based tolls on odd-numbered National Freeways only, with progressive rates and daily free distance allowances.
Current Toll Rates by Vehicle Class (2025)
| Vehicle Type | Rate (0-200km) | Rate (>200km) | eTag Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Vehicles (Cars) | NT$1.2/km | NT$0.9/km | 10% off with prepaid balance |
| Large Vehicles (Buses) | NT$1.5/km | NT$1.12/km | 10% off with prepaid balance |
| Large Trucks | NT$1.8/km | NT$1.35/km | 10% off with prepaid balance |
| Trailers/Heavy Vehicles | Additional surcharges apply | Variable rates | 10% off with prepaid balance |
Major Route Costs (Current Rates)
Popular Routes (Small vehicles with eTag discount):
- Taipei - Taichung (Freeway 1): NT$180-200 (185km)
- Taipei - Kaohsiung (Freeway 1): NT$320-350 (350km)
- Taipei - Yilan (Freeway 5): NT$65-75 (65km via Hsuehshan Tunnel)
- Taichung - Kaohsiung (Freeway 3): NT$150-170 (165km)
Daily Free Distance: First 20km per day are free for all vehicles (deducted automatically)
How to Pay Taiwan Tolls
You can use the following toll payment methods to pay toll in Taiwan:
1. eTag Electronic System:
- Free eTag device installation at FETC locations
- Automatic 10% discount with prepaid account balance
- Credit card auto-recharge available
- Minimum account balance: NT$400
2. Non-eTag Payment:
- Convenience store payment within 3 days (7-Eleven, FamilyMart)
- Prepaid toll tickets (no eTag discount)
- Postal mail bills (automatic license plate recognition)
- Online payment through FETC portal
To calculate toll costs for cars, trucks, motorcycles and all vehicle types across Taiwan toll roads, use TollGuru Taiwan toll calculator
Recent Changes (2025)
System Enhancements:
- Improved overhead gantry technology for better vehicle detection
- Enhanced mobile app integration for real-time toll tracking
- Expanded eTag auto-recharge partnerships with major banks
Rate Stability:
- Toll rates remain stable since 2014 implementation
- 20km daily free distance continues for all vehicles
- 10% eTag discount maintained for prepaid accounts
Common Mistakes to Avoid
eTag Installation Errors:
- Bring proper documents: ARC and vehicle registration for installation
- For others' vehicles: Copy of Taiwan ID of registered owner required
- Install eTag on front windshield in designated area only
Payment Timing:
- Pay non-eTag tolls within 3 days to avoid penalties
- Maintain adequate eTag balance for automatic discounts
- Check mail regularly for automatic billing notices
Planning Your Journey
Cost Considerations
- Daily costs: NT$50-200 for typical island travel
- North-South traverse: NT$300-400 Taipei to Kaohsiung
- Mountain access: Freeway 5 provides fastest route to Yilan/eastern Taiwan
Toll-Free Alternatives
- Provincial highways (even-numbered routes): No tolls but slower
- Urban expressways: City-maintained roads without tolls
- County roads: Free alternatives with scenic mountain/coastal routes
- Public transport: Extensive HSR and conventional rail networks
Regional Toll Information
Northern Taiwan - Dense Network:
- Freeway 1: Keelung-Taipei-Taoyuan corridor (Sun Yat-Sen Freeway)
- Freeway 3: Alternative north-south route via mountain foothills
- Freeway 5: Taipei-Yilan connection through Hsuehshan Tunnel
Central Taiwan - Manufacturing Hub:
- Freeway 1: Continuous from north through Taichung industrial area
- Freeway 3A: Spur connecting central Taipei to eastern suburbs
- Science park connections via multiple interchange points
Southern Taiwan - Port Access:
- Freeway 1: Continues to Kaohsiung major port city
- Freeway 3: Terminates in Linbian, southern Pingtung County
- Airport and port connectivity through comprehensive interchange system
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I avoid Taiwan tolls completely?
Yes, by using provincial highways and county roads, but expect 50-100% longer travel times. Taiwan's mountainous terrain makes freeways the most efficient long-distance option.
What happens if I don't pay Taiwan tolls?
Bills are automatically mailed to vehicle registration address. Non-payment results in administrative penalties and potential vehicle registration restrictions.
Do motorcycles pay tolls in Taiwan?
Motorcycles over 550cc can use freeways and pay small vehicle rates. Smaller motorcycles are prohibited on National Freeways for safety reasons.
How do I get eTag as a foreigner?
Bring your ARC (Alien Resident Certificate) and vehicle registration to any FETC service center. Installation is free, and minimum account balance is NT$400.
Are there peak-time toll variations?
Currently no, Taiwan maintains flat rates year-round. However, authorities may adjust policies during major holidays to manage traffic distribution.
Taiwan vs. Regional Countries
| Country | System Type | Typical Cost | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taiwan | Free-flow ETC only | NT$1.2/km (20km free daily) | Odd freeways only |
| Japan | ETC + cash booths | ¥24.6/km | Most expressways |
| South Korea | Hi-Pass ETC | ₩370-500/section | Major expressways |
| Hong Kong | Autotoll system | HK$8-75/crossing | Tunnels & bridges |
| Philippines | Beep cards + cash | ₱2.50/km | Major expressways |
Useful Links & Resources
Official ETC Resources:
- FETC Official: fetc.net.tw - eTag services and toll information
- Freeway Bureau: freeway.gov.tw - Taiwan highway administration
- MOTC: motc.gov.tw - Ministry of Transportation and Communications
eTag Service Centers:
- Available at major cities and DMV locations
- Installation appointments recommended
- Bring ARC and vehicle registration documents
Customer Service:
- FETC Hotline: 0800-200-993
- Emergency: 110 (Police), 119 (Fire/Medical)
- Freeway Service: 1968
