If you live in New York or frequently travel through the state, you may have heard of E-ZPass, a convenient electronic toll payment system that allows drivers to pay tolls automatically as they pass through designated lanes. However, not everyone has an E-ZPass account or wants to sign up for one. So, what are your options for paying tolls without E-ZPass in New York? This article will cover how you can pay tolls in the state without an E-ZPass account.
Toll By Mail
The Toll By Mail system is one option for paying tolls without E-ZPass in New York. This system allows drivers to pay their tolls by mail after receiving a bill in the mail. Here’s how it works:
- A camera will take a picture of your license plate when you pass through a toll without an E-ZPass account.
- The toll agency will then send you a bill with the toll amount and any applicable fees.
- You can pay the bill online, by mail, or at a retail location.
It’s important to note that if you choose to pay by mail, you’ll need to allow extra time for the bill to reach you and for your payment to be processed. You may be charged additional fees or fines if you don’t pay the toll within the specified timeframe.
Pay-Per-Trip
Another option for paying tolls without E-ZPass in New York is the Pay-Per-Trip system. This system allows drivers to pay their tolls on a trip-by-trip basis using a credit or debit card. Here’s how it works:
- You’ll be directed to a Pay-Per-Trip lane when you pass through a toll without an E-ZPass account.
- Follow the lane signage prompts to pay the toll using a credit or debit card.
- The toll amount will be charged to your card immediately.
Pay-Per-Trip is a convenient option for drivers who don’t want to sign up for an E-ZPass account, but it’s important to note that it’s generally more expensive than paying with an E-ZPass account. Additionally, Pay-Per-Trip is only available at select toll plazas and bridges in New York.
E-ZPass On-the-Go
If you don’t want to sign up for a complete E-ZPass account but still want to take advantage of the discounts and convenience of electronic toll payment, you can purchase an E-ZPass On-the-Go tag. This is a pre-paid, disposable tag you can use to pay tolls, just like an E-ZPass account holder. Here’s how it works:
- Purchase an E-ZPass On-the-Go tag at a participating retail location, such as a pharmacy or convenience store.
- Load the tag with a minimum balance of $30.
- Attach the tag to the inside of your windshield and use it to pay tolls, just like an E-ZPass account holder.
E-ZPass On-the-Go is a convenient option for drivers who don’t want to sign up for a complete E-ZPass account, but it’s important to note that it’s generally more expensive than paying with an E-ZPass account. E-ZPass On-the-Go tags expire after six months, so you’ll need to purchase a new one if you continue using it.
Tolls by Plate
If you forget to pay a toll or don’t have an E-ZPass account, you may be eligible for the Tolls by Plate program. This program allows drivers to pay their tolls using a credit or debit card by providing their license plate information. Here’s how it works:
- Go to the Tolls by Plate website and enter your license plate information.
- You’ll be presented with a list of tolls you owe and the option to pay them online using a credit or debit card.
- Pay the tolls online, and you’ll receive confirmation of payment.
Tolls by Plate is a convenient option for drivers who forgot to pay a toll or didn’t have an E-ZPass account, but it’s important to note that it’s generally more expensive than paying with an E-ZPass account. Additionally, you may be charged additional fees or fines if you don’t pay your tolls within the specified timeframe.
Tips for Paying Tolls Without E-ZPass in New York
If you’re planning to pay tolls without an E-ZPass account in New York, there are a few things you can do to make the process smoother:
Please keep track of your toll payments: Whether using the Toll By Mail system, Pay-Per-Trip, or Tolls by Plate, it’s important to keep track of your toll payments and ensure you pay them on time.
Consider signing up for an E-ZPass account: While you may not want to commit to a full E-ZPass account, you may want to consider signing up for an E-ZPass On-the-Go tag or other prepaid toll payment option. These options are generally more convenient and often less expensive than other toll payment methods.
Know your options: It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the toll payment options available in New York to choose the one that works best for you. Whether it’s Toll By Mail, Pay-Per-Trip, E-ZPass On-the-Go, or Tolls by Plate, make sure you understand how each option works and any associated fees or restrictions.
In conclusion, there are several ways to pay tolls without an E-ZPass account in New York. Whether you opt for the Toll By Mail system, Pay-Per-Trip, E-ZPass On-the-Go, or Tolls by Plate, it’s essential to keep track of your toll payments and understand the various fees and restrictions associated with each option. By following these tips, you can ensure that you’re able to smoothly pay your tolls without an E-ZPass account in the state of New York.