If you don't have cash for a toll in Florida, your vehicle's license plate will be photographed, and a bill will be sent to the registered owner through the TOLL-BY-PLATE system. This system ensures that all vehicles using the toll roads are accounted for, even without immediate payment.
Understanding TOLL-BY-PLATE
TOLL-BY-PLATE is an image-based tolling system that identifies vehicles without an electronic transponder (like SunPass) or cash payment. It's designed to provide a convenient alternative for drivers, but it's important to understand how it works and what to expect.
How the Billing Process Works
- License Plate Capture: When your vehicle passes through a toll plaza without paying cash or using a transponder, overhead cameras capture an image of your license plate.
- Bill Generation: The system identifies the registered owner of the vehicle through the license plate information.
- Bill by Mail: A bill for the toll amount, often including a small administrative fee, is then mailed to the address associated with the vehicle's registration.
Receiving and Paying Your Bill
Once you receive a TOLL-BY-PLATE bill, it will clearly outline the toll charges, any administrative fees, the due date, and various methods for payment. It's crucial to pay these bills promptly to avoid additional charges.
Payment Options for TOLL-BY-PLATE
| Payment Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Online | Visit the Florida's Turnpike website to pay your bill using a credit card or electronic check. |
| Send a check or money order using the provided return envelope included with your bill. | |
| Phone | Call the customer service number listed on your bill to make a payment over the phone using a credit card. |
Consequences of Unpaid TOLL-BY-PLATE Bills
Ignoring a TOLL-BY-PLATE bill can lead to escalating fees and more serious consequences. The initial administrative fee can increase, and penalties may be applied if the bill remains unpaid past its due date.
Common consequences include:
- Additional Administrative Fees and Penalties: Each notice sent for an unpaid toll may incur an additional fee.
- Vehicle Registration Holds: Unpaid tolls and accrued fees can result in a hold being placed on your vehicle's registration, preventing you from renewing it until the outstanding balance is paid.
- Referral to Collection Agencies: Persistent non-payment may lead to your account being sent to a collection agency, which can impact your credit.
Avoiding Future TOLL-BY-PLATE Bills
To avoid the administrative fees and potential complications of TOLL-BY-PLATE, consider utilizing electronic toll payment systems common in Florida.
Electronic Toll Payment Systems
The most popular electronic toll system in Florida is SunPass. A SunPass transponder allows tolls to be automatically deducted from a prepaid account, often at a discounted rate compared to cash or TOLL-BY-PLATE. Other compatible transponders like E-PASS may also be used. Having a transponder is the most convenient way to travel Florida's toll roads.
Important Tips for Drivers
- Maintain Current Vehicle Registration Address: Ensure your address with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is always up-to-date. This ensures TOLL-BY-PLATE bills reach you promptly.
- Regularly Check for Outstanding Tolls: If you frequently use toll roads without a transponder, consider proactively checking for outstanding tolls on the Florida's Turnpike website to avoid surprises.
- Contact the Toll Authority: If you believe there's an error on your bill or if you've recently sold your vehicle, contact Florida's Turnpike customer service immediately to resolve the issue.
