How to Get an E‐ZPass

Co-authored by Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA

Last Updated: October 11, 2022 References

An E-ZPass helps you drive easily by ending the headache of stopping at toll booths in the 16 states that use it. When you open an E-ZPass account, you’ll receive a transponder, which is a small rectangular device that you stick onto your windshield. When you drive through toll booths that use E-Zpass, they will scan your transponder electronically and deduct the toll from your account.^{[1]
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Research source} You can get your E-ZPass online, in person, or via mail or fax.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Signing up Online

1
Visit the E-ZPass website to find the link to your state's website. In total, 16 states participate in the E-ZPass program, and each state has its own site for getting a pass. The easiest way to find your state’s website is to visit the main E-ZPass site. There you’ll find a link to each state’s site.^{[2]
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- You can access the website here: https://www.e-zpassiag.com/get-e-zpass
Tip: You will need to provide your credit card information when applying online. If you want to pay with cash or check, you’ll need to go in person or mail in your application.
2
Choose the state where you drive the most. Your transponder will work in every state that uses E-Zpass. However, they recommend you buy your toll pass based on which state where you typically accrue the most tolls, even if you don’t live in that state. The E-ZPass rules for replenishing your account can vary depending on the state, and it’s best to follow the rules of the state where you’re driving the most. Click on the link for that state’s website to start the application process.^{[3]
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- You can still use your E-ZPass on every tollway that’s part of the E-ZPass system. Currently, there are 16 states that have E-Zpass, as well as other states that allow you to use it with their toll system.
- For instance, if you register for your pass in New Jersey, you can still use it in Delaware.
3
Click on “Get E-Zpass” or “Sign Up,” depending on your state. Each state that participates in E-ZPass has its own website with different tabs. However, each site will have a tab that says either “Get E-ZPass or “Sign Up.” Click on your site’s tab to create your E-ZPass account.^{[4]
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- You may be asked to agree to the E-ZPass terms and conditions before you can access an application. If you see this, check the box that says you agree, then select “Enroll Online.”
4
Select if you want a personal or business account. Pick a personal account if you’re driving a personal or family vehicle. You can have up to 6 personal vehicles on your account. If you own a business that has a fleet of vehicles, open a business account. You can have an unlimited number of vehicles on a business account.^{[5]
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- Some states refer to a personal account as an “individual” account and a business account as a “commercial” account.
Tip: Depending on your state, your transponders may cost more if they’re attached to a business account.^{[6]
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5
Complete your application with your personal, vehicle, and payment information. Provide your name, address, phone number, email, and a pin number. Then, include the license plate information, vehicle type, make, model, and year for each vehicle you want to include on your account. Next, fill out the payment section so you can pay your initial fees. Finally, indicate how you plan to replenish your account balance.^{[7]
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- You will create your own 4-digit pin number when you fill out the application. Later, you’ll use this number to access your account.
- You’ll likely replenish your online account by linking it to your credit or debit card. However, you may be able to set it up so that you add money manually instead of having it automatically deducted from your account.
6
Pay a one-time fee for each vehicle transponder you want. Your transponder fees can vary, depending on which state you drive in. For instance, Delaware charges $15 per device.^{[8]
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Research source} On the other hand, Maryland charges $20-30 per transponder.^{[9]
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Research source} Use your credit card to pay these fees in order to complete your application.
- The application will tell you how much the fee will be before you complete your payment.
7
Pay your $25 minimum deposit to open your account. With E-Zpass, you prepay your toll fees, then money is deducted from your account each time you drive on a toll road or bridge. That means you’ll need to deposit funds in your account before you can use your E-Zpass. Most states require you to start with $25, so use your credit card to pay that amount.^{[10]
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- You may be able to pay a smaller minimum deposit if your average monthly tolls are lower than $25 or you qualify for a discount plan. Discounts are usually available to senior citizens. Additionally, you may be able to get bridge discounts, carpool discounts, or frequent user discounts, depending on your state. Check your state’s E-ZPass website to look for discount plans.
8
Install your tag above your rearview mirror when you receive it. Clean and dry the inside of your window around your rearview mirror. Then, remove the plastic tabs from the mounting strips on the back of your transponder. Position it right above your rearview mirror about 1 in (2.5 cm) from the top of your windshield with the E-Pass logo facing you. Then, press down on the transponder to secure it to your windshield.^{[11]
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- If there’s not enough space to put the transponder above the rearview mirror, place it to the right of the mirror. However, you still need to make sure it’s about 1 in (2.5 cm) below the top of your windshield.
- Expect your transponder to arrive in about 7-10 days.
Variation: Some vehicles require an external tag. Most of these vehicles are older models. However, all Buick Roadmaster and Suburu SVX vehicles require an external tag. You can find out if your car requires an external tag by checking here: https://www.ezpassnj.com/en/about/exterior_tags.shtml.

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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Buying an E-ZPass Kit in Person

1
Go to a participating retailer to purchase your kit. Choose a retailer in the state where you expect to use your tag the most. Then, go in person to pick up your kit. It will contain your transponder, mounting strips, instructions for mounting the transponder, and a prepaid toll balance.
- These kits may cost as little as $35. However, their cost can vary depending on your state.
- Your initial toll balance will typically be between $15 and $20 when you buy a kit.
- To find a participating retailer, you’ll need to visit the website for your state. The E-ZPass website has links to each state’s site: https://www.e-zpassiag.com/get-e-zpass
Tip: Common retailers who’ve partnered with E-ZPass include AAA, Wegmans, Giant, Pit Stop, and Taylor’s Do It Center. However, you can find other options for your state, as well.
2
Visit an E-ZPass customer service center if you can’t find a retailer. While a retailer will typically be more convenient, you can also pick up a kit at an E-ZPass customer service center. To find one, go to your state’s E-ZPass website, then click on the link to find a customer service center. Pick the one that is closest to you, then go there to buy your kit.^{[12]
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- It’s best to visit a customer service center in the state where you pay the most tolls.
3
Attach the E-ZPass transponder above your rearview mirror. Before you mount the transponder, clean and dry the area on your windshield so that the transponder will stick to the glass. Then, remove the plastic from the tape on the mounting strips. Install the transponder above your rearview mirror about 1 in (2.5 cm) from the top of your windshield in an upright position with the E-ZPass logo facing you. Then, firmly press your hand to secure it to the window.
- Read and follow the mounting instructions provided in your E-ZPass kit.
- If your transponder doesn’t fit above your rearview mirror, it’s okay to install it to the right of your mirror.
- You can typically use your transponder once before registering it.
4
Register your transponder using the website or phone number in your kit. Your E-ZPass instructions will tell you how to register your transponder, which can vary by state. If you’re doing it online, go to the website. Then, create an account or sign in if you already have an E-ZPass account. If you prefer to register by phone, call the toll-free phone number that’s included in your kit.
- Each state has its own registration line.
- You can register your transponder to either a new or existing E-ZPass account.
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Applying by Mail or Fax

1
Print out your application from your state’s website. Visit the E-ZPass website and click on the website for your state. Then, click on the tab that says “Sign Up” or “Get E-Zpass.” From there, choose either a personal or business application. Download and print the application so you can fill it out.^{[13]
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- You can access the E-ZPass website here: https://www.e-zpassiag.com/get-e-zpass
2
Provide your personal, vehicle, and payment information. Use a blue or black pen to fill out your application. Provide your name, address, phone number, email, and a pin number. Next, give the license plate, vehicle type, make, model, and year of each vehicle you want attached to your account. Finally, fill out your payment section and indicate how you want to replenish your account, such as automatically using your bank account or manually by sending in cash or a check.^{[14]
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- You can make up your pin number when you fill out your application. You’ll use this pin to access your account information later.
3
Fax your application to the number provided if using a credit card. Each state has its own fax line, so you’ll need to use the 1 listed on your application. Put the application into the fax machine, then type in the number. Stay at the machine until the fax is complete so you’re sure it went through.^{[15]
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- You should see a fax number listed on the application itself. If you don’t, check your state’s E-ZPass website.
4
Mail in your application if you want to use cash or check to pay. Find the E-ZPass mailing address on your application on your state’s E-ZPass website. Write the address neatly onto an envelope. Then, place your application into the envelope, along with cash or check to cover the fees listed on your application. Finally, affix a stamp to the envelope or take it to the post office and pay the postage.^{[16]
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- While you can mail in cash, keep in mind that it’s risky to send cash through the mail because it may get stolen or lost.
5
Install your transponder when you receive it in the mail. Clean and dry your windshield around your rearview mirror. Then, remove the plastic from the mounting strips on your transponder. Position the transponder above your rearview mirror about 1 in (2.5 cm) from the top of your windshield. Make sure it’s upright and the E-ZPass logo is facing you. Then, press the transponder to fix it in place.^{[17]
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- If your transponder doesn’t fit above your mirror, place it to the right of your mirror.
- You should receive your transponder about 7-10 days after your E-ZPass customer service center receives your application. If you mailed your application, it may take a few extra days to get your device.
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