Toll-free times on nationwide expressway for 2026 unveiled

The State Council has released the 2026 public holiday schedule, confirming toll-free periods on nationwide expressways for four major holidays.

An aerial view of Xinwei Toll Gate in Longhua. Photo from Dute News

Small passenger vehicles with up to seven seats will travel toll-free on highways during the Spring Festival, Qingming Festival, Labor Day and National Day holidays. New Year’s Day (元旦) is not included and will not be toll-free.

The nationwide toll-free periods for 2026 are:

Spring Festival: Feb. 15, 2026, 12 a.m. to Feb. 23, 2026, 11:59 p.m. (9 days)

Qingming Festival: April 4, 2026,12 a.m. to April 6, 2026, 11:59 p.m. (3 days)

Labor Day: May 1, 2026, 12 a.m. to May 5, 2026, 11:59 p.m. (5 days)

National Day: Oct. 1, 2026, 12 a.m. to Oct. 7, 2026, 11:59 p.m. (7 days)

Toll timing rule on expressways is based on the time the vehicle leaves the toll lane at the exit.

Drivers are advised to enter and exit expressways using the same type of lane. If a vehicle enters via a manned lane but tries to exit through an ETC lane, the exit may fail to register the entry and the barrier may not lift, forcing a return to a manned lane. To avoid delays and complications, motorists should use the same lane type for both entry and exit.

Motorists should also monitor local notices and be prepared for any on-the-day adjustments to implementation.