Tired of fumbling for cash at toll booths or getting stuck in long lines? An E-ZPass might be the solution you need. This electronic toll collection system lets you breeze through toll plazas without stopping, often at discounted rates. But where exactly can you get one? Let’s break down all your options across different states.
What Is E-ZPass and Why Get One?
E-ZPass is an electronic toll collection system used across 20 states, making it the largest interoperable toll network in the world. More than 59 million E-ZPass devices are currently helping drivers save time and money on toll roads.
When you have an E-ZPass, you can:
- Drive through toll plazas without stopping
- Save up to 50% on toll costs in some states
- Use a single device across all 20 E-ZPass states
- Track your toll expenses easily online
Online Purchase Options: The Most Convenient Method
For most people, ordering online is the quickest way to apply for an E-ZPass. Nearly all participating states offer straightforward online enrollment.
How to Apply Online
The online application process typically follows these steps:
- Visit your state’s official E-ZPass website
- Click “Sign Up” or “Apply Now”
- Select your state of residence
- Fill out the application with your personal and vehicle information
- Provide payment details for the initial balance
- Submit your application
Most states will mail your transponder within 5-7 business days. You’ll need:
- Your vehicle’s license plate number
- Make, model, and year of your vehicle
- A credit/debit card or bank account information
- A valid mailing address
Retail Store Options: Get Your E-ZPass Today
If you don’t want to wait for shipping, many states offer “On-the-Go” kits or instant purchase options at retail locations.
Major Retail Chains That Sell E-ZPass
| Retailer | States Available | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Wegmans | NY, VA, PA | On-the-Go kit with $25 prepaid balance |
| Giant | VA, PA | On-the-Go kit with $25 prepaid balance |
| Walmart | Select locations | Prepackaged transponder kit |
| CVS | Indiana | Indiana Toll Road E-ZPass |
| AAA Offices | DE, KY, OH, PA, VA | Complete transponder kits |
These retail options typically provide a prepackaged transponder with an initial prepaid balance (often $25). After purchase, you’ll need to register the transponder online or by phone before you can use it.
Government and Service Center Locations
For face-to-face assistance and immediate activation, visit one of these official locations:
DMV and Transportation Offices
Many states offer E-ZPass services at:
- Select DMV offices
- State transportation authority service centers
- Treasury or municipal offices
The advantage of visiting these locations is that staff can answer your questions and help you set up your account properly. In most cases, you’ll leave with an activated transponder ready for immediate use.
State-by-State E-ZPass Purchase Guide
Virginia
Virginia offers multiple ways to get an E-ZPass:
- Online at ezpassva.com
- By phone: 1-877-762-7824 (7am-7pm)
- At E-ZPass Customer Service Centers
- Select DMV customer service centers
- Retail locations including Wegmans and Giant
- AAA Mid-Atlantic offices
- Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
- City Treasurer Offices in Chesapeake and Portsmouth
Virginia offers both standard transponders and E-ZPass Flex devices (for HOV lane use).
New York
New York E-ZPass options include:
- Online enrollment at the E-ZPass NY website
- “On-the-Go” kits from retail locations across the state
- Mail-in applications (downloadable from the website)
- Walk-in Customer Service Centers
The E-ZPass On-the-Go program is particularly convenient, letting you purchase a $25 preloaded tag from retailers, register it, and start using it immediately.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts residents can get an E-ZPass MA through:
- Online application at ezdrivema.com
- Mail-in application
- In-person at Customer Service Centers
- Partner locations throughout the state
Massachusetts provides free transponders with an initial account deposit of $20-$30 for private accounts or $50 for commercial accounts.
Maryland
Maryland’s DriveEzMD program offers E-ZPass through:
- Customer Service Centers
- Online account creation at driveezmd.com
- Various MDOT MVA locations including centers in Waldorf, Glen Burnie, Beltsville, Largo, Walnut Hill, Gaithersburg, and White Oak
Maryland provides free standard transponders with no monthly fee for Maryland addresses, making it an attractive option for residents.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s E-ZPass program offers:
- Online registration at paturnpike.com
- “Go Pak” activation
- Multiple replenishment options
- Substantial toll discounts (up to 50%)
Pennsylvania requires an initial prepaid balance and offers both automatic and manual replenishment options.
Indiana
The Indiana Toll Road offers E-ZPass through:
- Online purchase at amazon
- CVS locations throughout the state
Delaware
Delaware E-ZPass can be purchased:
- Online at ezpassde.com
- At toll plaza customer service centers
- At On-the-Go retail partners
- Via phone application
Cost Considerations When Buying E-ZPass
The cost of getting an E-ZPass varies by state but generally includes:
| State | Transponder Fee | Initial Deposit | Monthly Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $35 for standard, $35 for Flex | $35 minimum | None |
| New York | $0 (with auto-replenishment) | $25 minimum | $1 |
| Massachusetts | $0 | $20-30 personal, $50 commercial | None |
| Maryland | $0 for MD residents | $25 minimum | None |
| Pennsylvania | $38 for standard | $35 minimum | $3 (waived with auto-replenishment) |
| Indiana | $35 | $10 minimum | None |
Most states offer discounted toll rates for E-ZPass users, which can quickly offset any initial costs.
E-ZPass Nationwide Compatibility
One of the best features of E-ZPass is that your transponder works across all 20 states in the network, regardless of where you purchased it. The E-ZPass network now includes:
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida (through SunPass)
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- Virginia
- West Virginia
This interoperability makes E-ZPass particularly valuable for anyone who travels across state lines regularly.
How to Choose Where to Buy Your E-ZPass
Consider these factors when deciding where to purchase your E-ZPass:
- Need for immediate use: If you need an E-ZPass right away, retail locations or service centers are your best bet.
- Cost considerations: Some states offer free transponders or lower fees—check what’s available in your area.
- Travel patterns: If you frequently travel in a particular state, you might benefit from getting your E-ZPass from that state to access local discounts.
- Account management preferences: Some state programs offer better online account management tools or mobile apps.
Regardless of where you purchase your E-ZPass, you’ll be joining millions of drivers who enjoy faster, more convenient travel on toll roads across the eastern United States.
Tips for First-Time E-ZPass Users
- Mount your transponder as soon as you receive it according to the instructions
- Keep your account funded to avoid penalties
- Update your vehicle information if you change cars
- Consider automatic replenishment to avoid running out of funds
- Check your state’s specific mounting requirements—some states require different placement for certain vehicles
With an E-ZPass in hand, you’ll never have to scramble for exact change at a toll booth again. The time and potential cost savings make this electronic toll system a smart choice for frequent travelers and daily commuters alike.
