Understanding the Costs and Consequences of Toll Roads
While a summer road trip can often be more affordable than flying, toll roads can lead to unexpected expenses and potential fines if drivers aren’t prepared. With 38 out of 50 U.S. states having toll roads or bridges, it’s essential for travelers to understand the various toll systems and how to avoid costly mistakes.
The Risks of Not Paying Tolls
Failing to pay tolls either in cash or through the appropriate transponder can result in serious consequences. If you drive through a toll plaza without the correct pass, cameras will capture your license plate and send a bill to the address associated with your vehicle. If the toll is not paid within the state’s specified timeframe, it may be classified as a violation, leading to additional fees and penalties. In some cases, your vehicle registration could even be suspended or revoked.
For example, in New York, you have 30 days to pay a toll bill by mail. A second notice includes a $5 late fee, and if not paid within another 30 days, you could face up to $50 in additional charges. Similarly, in California, toll violations can cost an extra $57.50 on top of the toll amount, with further increases if the notice is ignored.
Choosing the Right Toll Pass
Having the right toll pass can save you money and prevent unnecessary stress during your travels. Many passes offer discounts and are accepted across multiple states, making them ideal for cross-country road trips.
Multiple States: EZPass or E-ZPass
E-ZPass is one of the most widely accepted toll passes in the U.S., covering states along the East Coast and parts of the Midwest. It works in Delaware, Indiana, Maine, New Hampshire, Ohio, Virginia, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Carolina, New York, Rhode Island, Georgia, and Florida. It is also compatible with several other state-specific passes, such as Florida’s SunPass Pro, Georgia’s Peach Pass, and North Carolina’s NC Quick Pass.
State-Specific Toll Passes
Each state has its own toll system, and understanding which pass to use is crucial:
- Alabama: The Freedom Pass is only accepted on Alabama’s four toll roads.
- California: FasTrak is the state’s toll system and is only usable within California. However, some FasTrak passes purchased through TheTollRoads.com can be used in certain cities in North Texas.
- Colorado: ExpressToll is available in Colorado and offers discounts of 20% to 25%. It also allows access to Colorado’s Express Lanes.
- Florida: SunPass comes in two versions — Mini and PRO — both accepted in multiple states. The E-Pass is another option, accepted in Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina.
- Georgia: Peach Pass provides discounts and automatic payments on Georgia’s toll roads and is also compatible with E-ZPass.
- Illinois: I-Pass is accepted on roads that take E-ZPass and offers up to 50% off Illinois tolls.
- Kansas: K-Tag is accepted in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, with all three states’ passes being cross-compatible.
- Kentucky: RiverLink is used on Kentucky’s tolled bridges and is also accepted in E-ZPass-compatible states.
- North Carolina: NC Quick Pass works across the state and is compatible with several other passes.
- Oklahoma: PikePass is accepted in Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, and parts of Colorado and Florida, offering significant savings on tolls.
- Oregon: BreezeBy provides a discount for travelers using Oregon’s Hood River-White Salmon Interstate Bridge and the Bridge of the Gods.
- Texas: TxTag, TollTag, and EZ Tag are all cross-compatible and accepted in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas.
- Washington: Good To Go! offers different options, including a sticker for $5 and a Flex Pass that allows carpooling on certain roads.
Planning Your Road Trip
When planning a cross-country road trip, it’s important to research the toll systems in each state you’ll be traveling through. Knowing which passes are accepted and where you can obtain them will help you avoid unexpected costs and ensure a smoother journey. Whether you’re driving through the East Coast, Midwest, or West Coast, choosing the right toll pass can make all the difference in your travel experience.
