E-ZPass is a convenient and efficient electronic toll collection system that allows you to pay tolls electronically as you drive through toll plazas. It’s a system that has been in place for several years now and has been adopted by many Pennsylvania residents as their preferred method of payment when driving on toll roads and bridges.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the different ways you can buy an E-ZPass in Pennsylvania and what you need to know before making your purchase.
What is EZ Pass PA?
E-ZPass PA is an electronic toll collection system that enables you to pay tolls electronically. When you drive through a toll plaza, a transponder in your vehicle communicates with the toll booth and automatically deducts the toll from your account. This system eliminates the need to carry cash and reduces wait times at toll plazas.
What are the benefits of EZ Pass PA?
There are several benefits of using E-ZPass in Pennsylvania, including:
- Convenience: E-ZPass eliminates the need to carry cash or stop to pay a toll. You can simply drive through the toll plaza and your toll will be automatically deducted from your account.
- Time-saving: E-ZPass reduces wait times at toll plazas, saving you time and getting you to your destination faster.
- Cost savings: E-ZPass customers typically pay lower tolls than those who pay with cash.
- Easy to use: E-ZPass is easy to use and there are no special requirements for using it. Simply attach the transponder to your windshield and start using it immediately.
Where to buy E-ZPass in Pennsylvania?
There are several ways to buy an E-ZPass in Pennsylvania. You can purchase an E-ZPass transponder online, at a retail location, or through the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission.
- Online
The easiest and most convenient way to buy an E-ZPass in Pennsylvania is online. You can visit the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission website and follow the instructions to purchase an E-ZPass transponder. You’ll need to provide your personal information, such as your name, address, and vehicle information, and choose a payment method. Once your application is processed, you’ll receive your transponder in the mail within 7-10 business days.
- Retail locations
If you prefer to buy your E-ZPass in person, you can visit one of the many retail locations in Pennsylvania that sell E-ZPass transponders. Retail locations include AAA, select Giant Eagle locations, and Wegmans. Before visiting a retail location, be sure to check the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission website for a list of participating retailers.
- Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission
You can also buy an E-ZPass transponder directly from the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission. Simply visit one of their customer service centers and fill out an application. You’ll need to provide your personal information, vehicle information, and choose a payment method. Your transponder will be activated immediately and you can start using it immediately.
What to know before buying E-ZPass in PA?
Before buying an E-ZPass in Pennsylvania, there are a few things you should know:
- Cost: E-ZPass transponders cost $35 and this fee includes the cost of the transponder and an initial balance of $30.
- Payment method: You’ll need to choose a payment method when purchasing an E-ZPass. You can choose to link your E-ZPass account to a credit or debit card, or you can choose to set up an automatic replenishment account, where your account will be automatically replenished when your balance falls below a certain amount.
- Transponder placement: The E-ZPass transponder must be placed on the inside of your windshield, near the rearview mirror, so that it can be easily read by the toll booth.
- Account setup: After purchasing an E-ZPass, you’ll need to set up an account and provide personal and vehicle information. This information will be used to track your toll usage and make it easy for you to access your account information online.
- Multi-state use: E-ZPass is accepted in multiple states, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia. This means that you can use your E-ZPass in multiple states, making it a convenient option for those who frequently travel across state lines.
- Toll discounts: E-ZPass customers in Pennsylvania may be eligible for toll discounts, such as the PA Turnpike’s E-ZPass discount plan, which provides a discount of up to 40% on some tolls.
In conclusion, buying an E-ZPass in Pennsylvania is a convenient and cost-effective way to pay for tolls. You can purchase an E-ZPass online, at a retail location, or through the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission. Before making your purchase, be sure to consider the cost, payment method, transponder placement, and account setup. With E-ZPass, you’ll enjoy the convenience of electronic toll collection and the benefits of reduced wait times and cost savings.