Austin toll roads charge you per trip, and you can pay through TxTag, a toll tag you mount on your windshield, or by invoice after the fact

Austin's toll roads are managed by the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (CTRMA) and include the Mopac Expressway and the 290 East toll lanes. You do not have to set up an account before you drive — you can pay after you receive an invoice in the mail. However, setting up a TxTag account before you drive saves money because toll rates are lower for tag holders than for drivers who pay by invoice.

The toll amount depends on the road, the time of day, and whether you have a tag. Mopac tolls range from roughly $0.50 to $4.00 per trip depending on congestion; 290 East tolls are similar. If you drive without a tag and receive an invoice, you pay the toll rate plus an administrative fee, which makes the total cost higher than if you had a tag.

Key Takeaways

  • TxTag is a reusable toll tag you mount on your windshield that charges your account automatically each time you use a toll road.
  • You can open a TxTag account online at TxTag.org, by phone at 888-839-8254, or in person at a TxTag customer service location in Austin.
  • If you drive without a tag, you will receive an invoice by mail within 30 days, and you must pay it within 30 days of the invoice date or face late fees and potential vehicle registration holds.
  • TxTag rates are lower than invoice rates, so setting up a tag before you drive regularly saves money over time.
  • You can link your TxTag account to a credit card, debit card, or bank account, and the system charges you automatically when your balance runs low.

Opening a TxTag Account Online

The fastest way to get a TxTag is through the TxTag website at TxTag.org. You will need your vehicle's license plate number, a valid email address, and a payment method (credit card, debit card, or bank account). The online process takes about 10 minutes and generates a confirmation number when ready.

After you complete the online registration, TxTag will mail your physical tag to the address you provide. Delivery typically takes 5 to 7 business days. Once you receive the tag, mount it on the inside of your windshield, centered and behind the rearview mirror, so the toll road sensors can read it. You can start using the toll roads as soon as your account is active, even before the physical tag arrives — the system will recognize your vehicle by its license plate.

When you set up your account, you will choose an initial funding method. You can add money upfront (a prepaid balance) or set up automatic replenishment, where the system charges your card or bank account when your balance drops below a threshold you select. Most drivers choose automatic replenishment so they do not have to monitor their balance manually.

Getting a TxTag by Phone or In Person

If you prefer to speak with someone, call TxTag customer service at 888-839-8254. The line is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. central time, and Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A representative can open your account over the phone and mail your tag to you. You will still need to provide your license plate, email, and payment method.

You can also visit a TxTag customer service location in person. The main Austin office is located at 3300 North IH-35, Suite 300, Austin, TX 78722. Staff there can open your account, issue your tag on the spot, and answer questions about tolls and your account. Hours vary, so call ahead or check TxTag.org for current times.

Paying Toll Invoices by Mail

If you drive a toll road without a TxTag, the toll road authority photographs your license plate and mails you an invoice within 30 days. The invoice shows the toll amount, the administrative fee (which varies but is typically $2.50 to $5.00 per trip), and the total due. You must pay within 30 days of the invoice date.

You can pay an invoice by check, money order, credit card, debit card, or online bank transfer. Instructions for each method appear on the invoice itself. Mail payments to the address listed on the invoice. Online payments can be made at TxTag.org by entering your invoice number and the amount due.

If you do not pay within 30 days, late fees accumulate and the toll authority may place a hold on your vehicle registration renewal. This hold prevents you from renewing your registration until the toll debt is paid. If you receive multiple unpaid invoices, the debt can be sent to a collection agency.

Understanding TxTag Account Management

Once your TxTag account is open, you can check your balance and transaction history anytime at TxTag.org or by calling 888-839-8254. The website shows each toll you have paid, the date and time, the road used, and the amount charged. You can also update your payment method, change your automatic replenishment settings, or add a second vehicle to your account.

If your tag is damaged, lost, or stolen, contact TxTag to request a replacement. There is usually a small replacement fee (typically $5 to $10). If you move out of the Austin area or no longer use toll roads, you can close your account online or by phone. Any remaining balance will be refunded to your original payment method within 7 to 10 business days.

TxTag accounts are personal to you, not to your vehicle. If you sell your car or trade it in, you can transfer your tag to a new vehicle by updating your license plate number in your account. This keeps your account active and your balance intact.

What Happens If You Dispute a Toll Charge

If you believe you were charged incorrectly or your tag malfunctioned, contact TxTag customer service with your transaction details (the date, time, and toll road where the charge occurred). TxTag will investigate and may issue a credit to your account if an error is found. The investigation typically takes 10 to 15 business days.

For invoice disputes, include a written explanation with your payment and mail it to the address on the invoice, or call TxTag to discuss the charge before paying. Keep a copy of any correspondence for your records. If you believe the charge was made in error, do not ignore the invoice — unpaid invoices trigger late fees and registration holds regardless of whether you dispute them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my TxTag from another Texas city on Austin toll roads?

Yes. TxTag is accepted on toll roads throughout Texas, including Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. Your account and balance follow you across all TxTag-compatible roads. However, toll rates vary by location, so the charge for the same distance may differ between cities.

What if I lose my TxTag or it stops working?

Contact TxTag customer service and request a replacement. You will pay a replacement fee (typically $5 to $10) and receive a new tag by mail within 5 to 7 business days. Your account and balance remain active during this time, and your vehicle will be recognized by its license plate if you drive before the new tag arrives.

Do I have to pay tolls if I take a toll road by accident?

Yes. Once you enter a toll road, you are obligated to pay the toll. There is no refund or waiver for accidental entry. If you have a TxTag, the charge is automatic. If you do not, you will receive an invoice by mail. Pay close attention to road signs to avoid unintended toll roads.

Can I set up a TxTag account without a credit card?

Yes. You can link your TxTag account to a bank account for automatic payments instead of using a credit card. Provide your routing number and account number during registration. Some TxTag locations may also accept other payment methods in person.

What if my vehicle registration is on hold because of unpaid tolls?

You must pay all outstanding toll invoices before the hold can be lifted. Contact TxTag with your invoice numbers and pay the full amount due, including any late fees. Once payment is processed, contact the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to request the hold be removed. This typically takes 3 to 5 business days.