When renting a car for travel or business, you might wonder, "What should I do about an ETC card?"
Whether you have your own card, don't have one, or accidentally forgot it... This article clearly explains the best solution for your situation.

What you'll learn in this article

・If you have a card, bringing your ETC card is the best solution
・Why is it the best? 3 clear benefits
・No need to worry about the in-car unit! Just insert it correctly
・Solutions if you don't have a card
・Summary: Prepare your ETC card in advance if possible

If you have a card, bringing your ETC card is the best solution

First, if you already own an ETC card, we recommend bringing your own ETC card without hesitation.

Your ETC card can be used with any rental car!

Some may worry, "Is it okay to use the ETC card I use in my home car with a rental car?" but there's no problem at all. In fact, ETC card information is registered to the 'person (contract holder)', and in-car unit information to the 'car'; these two are completely independent. Therefore, your ETC card can be used normally when inserted into a friend's or family's car, and of course, any rental car's in-car unit.

Why is it the best? 3 clear benefits

Bringing your own ETC card has the following three clear benefits:

・No extra charges!: While some rental car companies may charge a rental fee for ETC cards, using your own card is, of course, free.
・Earn credit card points: By using your own ETC card, you can earn points on your linked credit card.
・Wider choice of rental car companies: You can freely choose rental car companies even if they don't offer ETC card rental services, without worrying.

Given these benefits, if you own an ETC card, bringing it is the most economical and smart choice.

No need to worry about the in-car unit! Just insert it correctly

Currently, most rental cars come standard with an ETC in-car unit. While some budget rental cars might not have one, it should not be an issue with general rental cars.

For example, at SAPPORO RENTA LEASE in Hokkaido, all vehicles are equipped with ETC in-car units as standard. You can simply insert your card and immediately use expressways smoothly.

The most important caution when using it is "forgetting to remove it upon return." If you return the rental car with the ETC card still inserted, personal information and toll history may remain. Always ensure you remove your ETC card before returning the vehicle. In the unlikely event you forget, contact the rental car company immediately to retrieve it. As it can be used without a password (unlike credit cards), prompt contact is highly recommended.

Solutions if you don't have a card

Even if you don't have an ETC card, or realized you don't have one just before your trip, there are ways to use ETC with a rental car. Here, we introduce two realistic solutions depending on your situation.

Please note that, in principle, ETC cards can only be used by the "contract holder." Borrowing an ETC card from family or friends (non-contract holders) is generally prohibited by card company terms and may cause issues, so please avoid it.

Solution ① Rent an ETC card

"Can't get a card in time!" "Forgot it at home!" For those situations, renting an ETC card is the best way to get through your trip.

Some rental car companies may offer ETC card rental services. The typical fee is 300-500 yen per rental, but this service is not offered by all rental car companies. If you wish to use it, be sure to confirm ETC card availability when booking. Even if you've already booked, it might be possible to arrange it later, so don't give up hope if you've forgotten it.
(SAPPORO RENTA LEASE does not offer ETC card rental)

Solution ② Get your own ETC card now

If you'll have opportunities to drive in the future, issuing your own ETC card now is the most economical choice. Many ETC cards attached to credit cards are annual fee-free, so you can hold one without worrying about maintenance costs.
However, issuing an ETC card usually takes about 1-2 weeks. Once your travel or rental car use is decided, applying as early as possible is key to success.

Summary: Prepare your ETC card in advance if possible

How was it? Did you find a solution that fits your situation?

・ETC cards can be used with any in-car unit, so if you have one, it's best to bring it without hesitation.
・If you don't have an ETC card, considering getting one for future use is a long-term solution.
・If you need it suddenly and don't have a card, or forgot it, check if the rental car company offers a rental service.

Prepare thoroughly in advance and enjoy a stress-free, comfortable drive.

If you're looking for a rental car in the Hokkaido/Sapporo area, all our vehicles are equipped with ETC in-car units, so you can use your existing ETC card as is. Please be sure to bring your ETC card. With just one card, you can immediately set off on a comfortable Hokkaido drive.

Enjoy driving in Hokkaido efficiently with the method that suits you best!

SAPPORO RENTA LEASE FAQs are available here