Need to zip through California toll roads without stopping? A FasTrak transponder is your ticket to hassle-free travel across bridges, express lanes, and toll roads throughout the state. But where exactly can you get one? This guide breaks down all your options—from retail stores to online ordering—so you can choose what works best for you.
Retail Stores: Get Your FasTrak Today
Costco: The One-Stop FasTrak Shop
Costco has become one of the most popular places to pick up a FasTrak transponder. Here’s what you need to know:
- Cost: $24.99 for a FasTrak Flex Toll Tag that includes $25 in prepaid toll credits
- Benefits: Immediate use after registration
- Important: You must register your new transponder within 7 days
- Payment options: Cash, Visa, and personal checks (for Costco members)
The Flex tag from Costco is particularly useful if you carpool or drive a clean-air vehicle since it allows you to access certain express lanes for free. Just be aware that some locations occasionally run out of stock, so calling ahead might save you a trip.
Walgreens: Convenience on Every Corner
With over 125 Bay Area locations now selling FasTrak, Walgreens has made getting a transponder incredibly convenient:
- Availability: Expanded to nationwide Walgreens stores in 2022
- Services: Purchase new transponders, replenish existing accounts, or pay toll violations
- Process: Generate a barcode through the FasTrak website/app and present to the cashier
- Best for: Drivers who want immediate access without online setup
Walgreens occasionally runs promotions, like offering $10 in free tolls with transponder purchases during special promotional periods.
Other Retail Options
- Safeway: Available at 100+ Bay Area locations
- Albertsons: Select Orange County locations offer a 10% discount
- AAA offices: Members enjoy a 20% discount at participating branches
Official FasTrak Service Centers
San Francisco Walk-In Center
For personalized service, visit the FasTrak Walk-In Center at 375 Beale Street in San Francisco:
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Services: Account setup, transponder activation, issue resolution
- Benefits: Immediate transponder activation
- Payment: Credit cards, cash, checks, and mobile payments
The center’s representatives can answer questions and ensure your toll tag works right away—no waiting for mail delivery.
Southern California Centers
If you’re in SoCal, you have options:
- Irvine Customer Service Center: Open Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–5:30 PM
- Rancho Cucamonga (San Bernardino County): Monday–Thursday, 7:00 AM–4:30 PM
Both centers offer full services including transponder purchases, account management, and technical help.
Online and Mobile Options
FasTrak Website and App
The most convenient option might be ordering directly through the official FasTrak website or mobile app:
- Process: Create an account, select “Request Transponders,” and choose your model
- Cost savings: $5 refundable security deposit waived for up to three transponders when set up with automatic replenishment
- Payment: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover cards accepted
- Delivery time: 5–7 business days
While you’ll need to wait for mail delivery, the online process is straightforward and can be completed anytime.
PayNearMe Service
For those who prefer or need to use cash, PayNearMe partners with FasTrak to allow account replenishment at 40,000+ retail locations nationwide, including:
- 7-Eleven
- CVS
- Family Dollar
This service is primarily for adding funds to existing accounts or paying violations, not for initial transponder purchases.
Activation and Setup Requirements
Registration Process
No matter where you buy your FasTrak, you must register it within seven days to avoid deactivation:
- Visit the FasTrak website or call 877-BAY-TOLL
- Provide vehicle and payment details
- Set up automatic replenishment or pay-as-you-go options
Unregistered transponders can’t deduct toll fees, which may result in violation notices and penalties.
Installation Options
The most common way to use your FasTrak is to mount it on your windshield using the included adhesive strips, but you have flexibility:
- Windshield mount: Standard placement behind your rearview mirror
- Dashboard placement: For those who prefer not to use adhesive
- Glove compartment storage: Works for occasional use, but less reliable for detection
Registering your license plate provides backup in case your transponder isn’t read properly.
Which FasTrak Model Do You Need?
Standard FasTrak Tag
The basic tag works on all toll roads and bridges in California but doesn’t allow for carpool lane discounts.
FasTrak Flex
This switchable transponder lets you indicate how many people are in your vehicle:
- Position 1: Solo driver (pay full toll)
- Position 2: Two people (discounted or free on some express lanes)
- Position 3: Three+ people (free on most express lanes)
- CAV setting: For qualified clean-air vehicles
If you use express lanes or carpool regularly, the Flex model will save you money.
Cost Comparison: Where’s the Best Deal?
| Purchase Location | Initial Cost | Included Toll Credit | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Costco | $24.99 | $25 | Immediate availability, Flex model |
| Walgreens | Varies | Varies (sometimes promotional credits) | Widespread availability, cash payment option |
| Online FasTrak | $0-5 | $0 | Security deposit waived with auto-pay |
| AAA | 20% discount | Varies | Requires AAA membership |
| Walk-In Center | $0-5 | $0 | Immediate activation, personalized help |
Tips for Choosing Where to Buy
Consider these factors when deciding where to purchase your FasTrak:
- Need it immediately? Retail stores and walk-in centers provide same-day access after registration
- Want the best value? Costco’s package includes $25 in toll credits
- Prefer personalized help? Visit a walk-in center for face-to-face assistance
- Don’t have a credit card? Walgreens and service centers accept cash
- Planning ahead? Online ordering is most convenient if you don’t need the transponder right away
What You Need to Register Your FasTrak
Have these items ready when registering your new transponder:
- License plate number and vehicle information
- Credit card for account funding (unless using cash options)
- Valid email address for account notifications
- Driver’s license or other ID (for in-person purchases)
Managing Your FasTrak Account
After purchasing your transponder, you’ll need to manage your account to ensure it remains in good standing:
- Account balance: Keep sufficient funds to cover tolls
- Auto-replenish: Set a threshold amount that triggers automatic reloading
- Account updates: Update vehicle or payment information as needed
- Transfers: Move transponders between registered vehicles as needed
The FasTrak website and mobile app make account management simple with 24/7 access to your information.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t fall into these typical FasTrak purchase pitfalls:
- Forgetting to register: Your transponder won’t work if not registered within 7 days
- Missing discounts: AAA members and certain retailers offer money-saving promotions
- Buying the wrong model: Standard tags don’t provide carpool benefits
- Ignoring account balance: Running out of funds can lead to violations and penalties
- Not updating vehicle info: Ensure all vehicles using the transponder are registered to your account
Replacing or Adding Transponders
Already have a FasTrak account but need additional transponders? You can:
- Order more online through your account
- Visit a walk-in center
- Purchase at retail locations and add them to your existing account
Additional FasTrak Flex transponders are particularly useful for households with multiple drivers who might need carpool lane access.
Using FasTrak Outside Your Home Region
One of the best features of FasTrak is its interoperability across California:
- Works on all toll bridges in the Bay Area
- Compatible with Southern California express lanes and toll roads
- Functions on the Golden Gate Bridge
- Valid for use in the Central Valley’s express lanes
This statewide compatibility makes FasTrak a must-have for California drivers who travel throughout the state.
