Current toll rates for the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge

The Verrazano-Narrows Bridge toll varies based on the vehicle type and how you pay. As of 2024, a passenger car using E-ZPass (the electronic toll collection system) costs $17.76 during peak hours and $15.76 during off-peak hours when traveling from Brooklyn to Staten Island. The same trip costs $19.76 at peak times and $17.76 at off-peak times if you pay by mail after the toll is photographed.

The bridge charges different rates depending on direction and time of day. Tolls are higher during rush hours (6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays) and lower during nights, early mornings, and weekends. Trucks, buses, and motorcycles have their own rate structures, which are higher than passenger vehicles.

If you do not have E-ZPass and do not pay by mail within a set timeframe, the toll authority can issue a violation notice with additional fees. This makes E-ZPass the most economical option for regular crossers.

Key Takeaways

  • E-ZPass is the cheapest way to pay, saving you $2 per trip compared to paying by mail after a photo toll.
  • Peak-hour tolls (weekday mornings and evenings) are $2 higher than off-peak tolls for the same vehicle type.
  • You can set up E-ZPass through the Tolls by Mail system or by opening a dedicated E-ZPass account with the MTA.
  • Trucks and commercial vehicles pay significantly more than passenger cars, and rates vary by axle count.
  • If you cross regularly, E-ZPass discounts and monthly payment plans can reduce your total cost.

How E-ZPass works on the Verrazano Bridge

E-ZPass is an electronic tag mounted on your windshield that communicates with toll readers as you cross. The system deducts the toll automatically from a prepaid account. You can open an E-ZPass account through the MTA Bridges and Tunnels website or through the Tolls by Mail system if you receive a toll notice.

When you set up E-ZPass, you link a payment method (credit card, debit card, or bank account) to your account. The system charges your account each time you cross. Most accounts are set to replenish automatically when the balance drops below a threshold, so you do not have to manually reload funds before each trip.

E-ZPass accounts can be used on multiple bridges and tunnels in the New York area, including the George Washington Bridge, Brooklyn Battery Tunnel, and others. This means one account works across the entire MTA toll network.

Paying by mail after a toll photo

If you do not have E-ZPass, the toll authority photographs your license plate and sends you a bill by mail. This is called a Tolls by Mail notice. The toll amount is higher than E-ZPass rates because the MTA charges an additional processing fee for the photo-based collection method.

You have a set number of days to pay the bill after receiving it. Payment can be made online through the MTA website, by phone, or by mail. If you pay within the grace period, you avoid additional violation fees.

If you cross the bridge frequently without E-ZPass, the MTA may send you a notice offering to convert your account to E-ZPass. This is often the most practical path if you do not want to set up an account yourself but cross regularly enough to receive multiple bills.

Violation fees and what happens if you do not pay

If you do not pay a toll notice within the required timeframe, the MTA issues a violation notice with an additional fee. The violation fee is separate from the toll itself and increases the total amount you owe. Repeated unpaid tolls can result in license suspension or vehicle registration holds.

The MTA can also place a lien on your vehicle or report the debt to a collection agency. If you receive a violation notice, paying it promptly stops the accumulation of additional penalties. You can dispute a toll notice if you believe it was issued in error, though you must do so within a specific window.

Some people set up payment plans if they cannot pay the full amount at once. Contact the MTA directly to discuss options if you have received multiple notices or owe a large amount.

Discounts and payment plans for regular users

The MTA offers discounts for high-volume users of the Verrazano Bridge and other tolled crossings. If you cross frequently, you may be able to purchase a monthly pass or a multi-crossing package that reduces the per-trip cost. These are available through E-ZPass accounts.

Some employers and transit programs offer pre-tax commuter benefits that can be used toward toll payments. Check with your employer's benefits department to see if this option is available to you. This can reduce your out-of-pocket cost by allowing you to pay tolls with pre-tax dollars.

If you have a low income, you may be able to request a toll reduction or exemption through certain programs, though may be able to access varies. Contact the MTA directly to ask about programs in your situation.

Toll rates for different vehicle types

Passenger cars are the most common vehicle type and have the rates described above. Motorcycles pay a reduced rate compared to cars. Trucks and commercial vehicles pay significantly more, with rates that depend on the number of axles.

Buses and other large vehicles have their own rate structure. If you operate a commercial vehicle or regularly cross with a truck, contact the MTA to confirm the exact rate for your vehicle class, as rates can change and vary based on weight and axle configuration.

Some vehicles, such as emergency vehicles or certain government vehicles, may be exempt from tolls. If you believe your vehicle qualifies for an exemption, you will need to register it with the MTA and obtain a special permit.

Setting up E-ZPass if you do not have an account

To open an E-ZPass account, visit the MTA Bridges and Tunnels website and select the option to open a new account. You will need a valid credit or debit card and a vehicle registration. The process takes about 10 minutes online.

After you complete the online process, the MTA mails you a transponder (the electronic tag) within 7 to 10 business days. Once you receive it, mount it on your windshield according to the instructions included in the package. The account is active as soon as you complete the online setup, but tolls will not be charged until the transponder is mounted and detected by the toll readers.

If you have received a Tolls by Mail notice, you can convert that account to E-ZPass through the same website. This often happens automatically if you have received multiple notices, but you can also initiate it yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest way to cross the Verrazano Bridge?

E-ZPass during off-peak hours is the cheapest option. Off-peak tolls for a passenger car are $15.76 with E-ZPass, compared to $17.76 at peak times. If you cross during nights, early mornings, or weekends, you save an additional $2 per trip.

Can I dispute a toll charge if I think it was wrong?

Yes. Contact the MTA with your toll notice number and the date of the crossing. You have a limited window to file a dispute, so do this as soon as you believe an error occurred. The MTA will investigate and either remove the charge or explain why it is correct.

What happens if I lose my E-ZPass transponder?

Contact the MTA when ready to report it lost. They will deactivate the old transponder and mail you a replacement. You may be charged a replacement fee. Until the new transponder arrives, tolls will be collected by photo and sent as Tolls by Mail notices.

Do I have to pay the toll if I am only driving partway across the bridge?

Yes. The toll is charged for any vehicle that enters the bridge, regardless of how far it travels. There is no partial toll or refund for short trips.

Can I use my E-ZPass from another state on the Verrazano Bridge?

Yes. E-ZPass accounts from other states are recognized on the Verrazano Bridge and other MTA tolled facilities. Your out-of-state E-ZPass will be charged the same rate as an MTA E-ZPass account.