Tolls are necessary when traveling on Rhode Island’s highways and bridges. They help to maintain and improve the state’s transportation infrastructure, but they can also be a source of confusion and frustration for drivers. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about paying tolls in Rhode Island, including the different types of tolls, how to pay them, and what to do if you forget to pay.
Types of Tolls in Rhode Island
There are several types of tolls in Rhode Island, including:
- Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority (RITBA) tolls: These are the tolls you’ll pay when crossing the Newport Pell Bridge, the Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge, and the Sakonnet River Bridge. The cost of these tolls varies depending on the type of vehicle you’re driving, and the time of day you’re crossing the bridge.
- Rhode Island Expressway System tolls: You’ll pay when driving on the 14.5-mile long Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority’s (RITBA) Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge, the Sakonnet River Bridge and the Newport Pell Bridge. The cost of these tolls also varies depending on the type of vehicle you’re driving and the time of day you’re going.
- Rhode Island Electronic Toll Collection (E-ZPass) tolls: These are the tolls you’ll pay when using the E-ZPass system on Rhode Island’s highways. With E-ZPass, you can pay your tolls electronically without stopping at a toll booth. The cost of these tolls is typically less than the cash toll rate.
How to Pay Tolls in Rhode Island
There are several ways to pay tolls in Rhode Island, including:
- Cash: You can pay your tolls in cash at the toll booth when crossing the Newport Pell Bridge, the Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge, and the Sakonnet River Bridge.
- Credit/debit card: You can also pay your tolls with a credit or debit card at the toll booth when crossing the Newport Pell Bridge, the Jamestown Verrazzano Bridge, and the Sakonnet River Bridge.
- E-ZPass: You can pay your tolls electronically with the E-ZPass system. With E-ZPass, you can pay your tolls without stopping at a toll booth. To use E-ZPass, you’ll need to sign up for the service and install a transponder in your vehicle.
- Tolls by Mail: If you don’t have E-ZPass and don’t have cash or a credit/debit card, you can pay your tolls by mail. You can do this by going to the RITBA website and entering your license plate number, the make and model of your vehicle, and the date and time when you crossed the bridge.
What to Do if You Forget to Pay a Toll in Rhode Island
If you forget to pay a toll, don’t panic. You have several options for resolving the issue, including:
- Pay the toll online: You can pay your toll online through the RITBA website. You’ll need to enter your license plate number, the date and time you crossed the bridge, and the type of vehicle you were driving.
- Pay the toll by mail: You can also pay your toll by mail by sending a check or money order to the RITBA. Be sure to include your license plate number, the date and time you crossed the bridge, and the type of vehicle you were driving.
- Contact the RITBA: If you’re having trouble paying your toll or have questions, contact the RITBA customer service department. They’ll be able to assist you with resolving any issues and answering any questions you may have.
- Violation notice: If you don’t pay your toll within a certain period, you may receive a violation notice in the mail. This notice will include the toll you missed and the fine you’ll need to pay. It’s essential to address the violation notice as soon as possible to avoid additional fees or penalties.
Paying tolls in Rhode Island can seem confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. By understanding the different types of tolls, how to pay them, and what to do if you forget to pay, you’ll be able to navigate the state’s toll roads and bridges easily. And remember, if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact the RITBA customer service department for assistance. They’re always ready to help you and make your toll-paying experience as smooth as possible.