These additional charges are triggered when toll scanners fail to detect a tag, forcing the system to default to license plate recognition. Officials stress that the goal is to improve toll processing efficiency and reduce reliance on more costly, less efficient methods of toll collection.
To help drivers avoid these unnecessary charges, detailed instructions have been provided on how to correctly mount the tag. The E-ZPass device should be affixed to the inside of the front windshield, positioned just behind the rearview mirror. It must be clean, unobstructed, and facing the right direction to ensure proper readability. Mounting it incorrectly — on the dashboard, upside down, or in the glove box — increases the chance of a scan failure and the resulting fee.
In addition to these changes, tolls by mail are also becoming more expensive. Drivers who do not use E-ZPass and instead pay via invoice mailed to their home will now be charged higher rates. The adjustment is part of a broader effort to streamline toll collection and promote electronic tag usage, which remains the most efficient and cost-effective method for both agencies and drivers.
Officials emphasize that mounting the tag properly is a quick fix that can prevent long-term cost increases. With more drivers using E-ZPass lanes and fully automated toll plazas, accurate tag detection plays a critical role in maintaining the speed and accuracy of traffic flow at bridges, tunnels, and highway crossings.
For commuters using high-traffic routes, such as regional bridges and tunnels, failing to correctly display the E-ZPass tag could lead to recurring fees. Over time, even small surcharges can significantly increase monthly transportation costs.
To avoid penalty toll charges, drivers should:
- Mount the E-ZPass tag securely to the inside of the front windshield
- Place the tag behind the rearview mirror for optimal readability
- Ensure the tag is clean and not covered by tint, stickers, or other obstructions
- Avoid storing the tag in glove compartments, cup holders, or on the dashboard
This policy reflects a growing shift toward modernized toll systems that rely on fully electronic tolling. With proper usage, E-ZPass continues to offer one of the most convenient and cost-effective ways to navigate toll roads. Drivers are urged to double-check the positioning of their tags to ensure smoother travel and avoid unnecessary surcharges.
