If you live in the North East, you’ve seen EZPass and know how it can save you lots of time on your commute.  Most people aren’t aware of the different fee structures of EZPass depending on where you get your account. Anyone can get a free account.

What is E-ZPass?

The E-ZPass system is an electronic toll collection system that allows you to automatically pre-pay your highway, bridge and tunnel tolls. Once signed up, you will receive a transponder which you leave in your car. The transponder is detected every time you travel through a toll booth and the fee is automatically deducted.

Here is a map of where E-ZPass is in use.

Why would you want this?

To save time mostly. Instead of stopping at the toll to pay cash (which often has a long line and waiting time), you just drive through the E-ZPass lane without stopping. Fee is automatically deducted. Less stopping also equals better gas mileage.

There are also various plans that may allow you discounts on your tolls.

How to get it?

Many different states offer it, but only a few will not charge you an initial fee or monthly maintenance charges. You don’t actually have to open an account in the same state you live in. So pick a state that has no fees. I opened an E-ZPass account in MD although I was living in CT. I believe MD may be increasing their fees come 7/2009 so check the E-ZPass Wikipedia page for current fees for different states. That page also has links to the various facility pages from which you can sign up for an account online.

Any drawbacks?

Not really. You’ll have a little bit of money tied up in your account. For most free accounts, your credit card will be automatically charged a small amount (i.e. $25) from which your fees get deducted. When the E-ZPass balance reaches a threshold (i.e. $10), the credit card gets charged again to replenish the balance.

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I’ve found E-ZPass to be a great convenience to have.