Article overview

• Understand the basics of toll roads in the U.S.

• Learn about the costs associated with toll roads and how they vary.

• Explore popular electronic toll passes like SunPass. 

• Find out how toll passes can save you time and reduce travel stress.

• Decide if getting a toll pass is the right option for your travel needs.

Toll roads are an inevitable part of modern travel, and most drivers aren’t big fans. If you’ve ever had to watch cars breeze through the toll-pass lane while you’re stuck in the cash lane, you might have wondered: are electronic toll passes worth the investment?

Toll passes can definitely save time and money, so they might be a great choice for you. Let’s explore how toll roads work and how passes can make them a less frustrating part of your journey.

What are toll roads?

Toll roads, also known as turnpikes, are public or private roadways that require a fee for passage. These fees cover the road’s construction and maintenance costs.

In the U.S., turnpikes are vital arteries for commerce and travel. Famous examples include Florida’s Turnpike, which spans nearly the entire length of the Sunshine State, and the New York State Thruway, one of the longest toll systems in the country. 

How much are toll roads?

The cost of a toll depends on where you are, what you’re driving, how far you’re going and your payment method. 

For example, driving Florida’s entire Mainline Turnpike can cost over $20 without an electronic pass. The fee increases if your vehicle has more than two axles. 

Many Georgia roads use dynamic pricing, where the cost fluctuates based on traffic density. A trip during rush hour might cost significantly more than at midnight.

Basically, each area has its own rules for toll pricing, so investigate before you head out if you need to watch your spending. 

How do I pay for toll roads?

Turnpikes collect payments in three different ways:

• Toll-by-plate: Cameras capture your license plate and mail you a bill. While convenient, this often carries administrative fees.

• Manually: You stop at a toll booth and pay using cash or card. This method is being increasingly phased out to reduce traffic delays and labor costs.

• Electronic toll passes: You purchase a small device called a transponder and attach it to your windshield. Roadside toll readers receive your transponder’s identifying number via radio signal and an e-commerce system charges you. 

Even roads that still have tollbooths typically let cars with transponders skip them, which is great if you’re in a hurry or hate waiting in traffic! Plus, electronic passes are often less expensive than paying by mail. 

Do toll passes work in all states?

No pass works in every US state. But SunPass, Florida’s electronic toll program, goes a long way. SunPass Pro works on roads in 23 states, including the 20 that accept E-ZPass, one of the country’s most recognized toll passes. SunPass Mini only covers six, but it is still a good option for less frequent travelers. 

SunPass Pro is accepted in several states in the AAA Auto Club Group footprint, so it may be worth your while if you often travel around the East Coast.

How do you avoid toll roads on maps?

If you're trying to cut costs or avoid toll fees, your smartphone can help you bypass toll roads with just a few simple steps:

• Google Maps: After entering your destination, tap the three dots (options) in the top right corner, then toggle on "Avoid Tolls" under Route Options. Google Maps will automatically reroute you to avoid toll roads.
• Apple Maps: Swipe up on the route card when you’ve entered your destination, tap "Avoid," and select "Tolls" to get a toll-free route.
• Waze: Open the app, go to Settings, then Navigation and turn on the "Avoid toll roads" option. Waze will guide you on toll-free routes while still considering traffic conditions.

While avoiding toll roads can save you money, it often results in longer travel times or less direct routes. Be sure to weigh the trade-off between cost and convenience before choosing this option. 

AAA Member discount for SunPass Pro

If you decide a pass is right for you, AAA Members have an advantage. By purchasing a SunPass Pro transponder online thru AAA, members can save and earn cash back.

Not in a state that offers a SunPass Pro discount? Depending on where you live and travel, check to see if one of these popular options will work in your area:

• E-ZPass: Widely used in the Midwest and Northeast, E-ZPass covers toll roads in 19 states.

• Peach Pass: Primarily for Georgia's toll roads, but it's also interoperable with SunPass and E-ZPass.

• I-PASS: The official transponder for the Illinois Tollway system, also compatible with the E-ZPass network.

• ExpressToll: Used for toll roads in Colorado.

Are toll passes worth it?

For the frequent traveler, a toll pass is a no-brainer. Bypassing toll booths shortens your journey, and many states offer discounts to pass holders. In Florida, SunPass users pay the lowest rates on all toll roads and can even use it to pay for parking at most major Florida airports.

For the occasional traveler, the investment is still usually worth it. A SunPass Pro costs less than $20 and has no monthly maintenance fees. If you take just one round-trip through several toll-heavy states, the savings on surcharges will likely pay for the device itself.

Turnpikes aren't going anywhere, but it’s never been easier to pay for them. By using a transponder like the SunPass Pro, you gain the freedom to travel from the Florida Keys to the streets of Chicago with one account, the lowest rates and zero stops.

Toll roads are an essential part of modern travel, helping fund infrastructure and maintain efficient roadways. While they can be inconvenient and costly at times, investing in a toll pass is often a smart choice, especially for frequent travelers. 

Whether you're navigating daily commutes or planning a road trip across states, toll passes can make a big difference in simplifying your travel experience.