If you drive the highways or bridges in New Jersey, you could save yourself some money and hassle by having an EZ Pass. The E-Z Pass isn’t difficult to get, and it allows you to move right through the toll booths. If you don’t know how to apply for EZ Pass in New Jersey, I can get you started.
In this guide, I discuss the methods of application for the E-ZPass in New Jersey. I also talk about the cost and potential discounts.
What is E-ZPass NJ?
The New Jersey EZ Pass is a transponder tag that’s put in your car to pay the tolls as you travel the paid-for roads in the state. It’s also compatible with some toll systems in other states.
To use the transponder, you mount the device in your vehicle. As you pass through the electronic toll booth, the required amount of money is automatically taken from your account.
How to Apply for E-ZPass in New Jersey
There are multiple ways to get an NJ EZ Pass. The easiest method is to sign up for a transponder tag. You can also send the application by mail. Aside from those two methods, there’s the option to enroll over the phone or visit a service center that sells the toll tags.
Here is a more detailed list of the ways to apply for EZpass in New Jersey:
1. Online
The easiest way to get a New Jersey toll pass is to sign up online. You can visit the state’s website at https://www.ezpassnj.com/en/signup/signup.shtml.
Once you visit online, you choose between an individual account or a business. You are required to fill in the necessary information, set up a payment method and agree to the terms. The transponder will arrive to you in the mail.
2. By Mail
If you would prefer to send your application by mail, you want to print it off of the website. Make sure you fill everything out and have the payment provided. Otherwise, the paperwork might be returned to you without a transponder tag.
Send your application to NJ E-ZPass Customer Service Center, P.O. Box 52001, Newark, NJ 07101-8201. You can choose this method to send in a personal or business application.
3. By Phone
There are customer service agents standing by to sign you up over the phone. You need to call 1-888-288-6865 or 1-888-AUTO-TOLL during regular hours.
Once you are on the phone, you need to provide all of your personal information. The transponder will arrive in the mail.
4. In-Store
There are also EZ Pass Customer Service Centers throughout New Jersey. If you are passing by, it might be easier to drop off or fill out your application at these locations.
Depending on the policies, you might be able to get a transponder on the spot. Otherwise, they will ship it to your home address.
There are also EZ Passes on sale at some Walmarts in New Jersey. To get a transponder at this location, you need to pay an extra $3 convenience fee.
What Does the NJ E-Pass Cost?
There are different plans you can choose from, each with its own fee structure. If you are signing up for a personal account with the standard plan, you won’t be responsible for any enrollment charges. However, you must keep a balance of $25 in the account.
With this account, you will be charged $18 a year for the annual fee. You are also responsible for the $1 monthly service fee, plus another $1 for bi-monthly statements. If you want to replenish the account by check or cash, you are responsible for another $10 deposit, but this amount is refundable.
EZ Pass NJ Discounts
1. Senior Citizens Plan
If you are over 65 years old, you can take advantage of this discount plan. You will need to show proof of your age with your application.
You get discounted tolls when driving in your passenger vehicle during specific hours. It’s not applicable during peak driving hours, such as 7 am to 9 am and 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm.
2. Green Pass Plan
If you drive a fuel-efficient vehicle, you can take advantage of a discount when it would otherwise be the full fare, off-peak total. This discount applies to both the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike.
However, your vehicle must meet the California Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) standards. With these requirements, your vehicle must get a minimum of 45 mpg.
3. Trailer Plan
If you have a certain vehicle, you can also get a discount. You must drive a Class 2 to Class 5 vehicle that meets the requirement of a Class 1 tag with extra axles or with RVs.
With the trailer discount, you get a discount on the full fare, off-peak tolls. However, it’s only valid on the Garden State Parkway.
What Happens if You Travel Through NJ EZ Pass Without It
If you make a mistake and drive through the EZ Pass lane without the transponder, there’s no need to worry. You will get the bill for your travels in the mail, determined by where the vehicle is registered.
However, there won’t be a toll discount on the bill. You are responsible for the full amount. Plus, you will incur a penalty if you don’t pay the bill by the specified due date.
Once you get the bill, you can pay it online. Otherwise, send the money with the bill to NJ E-ZPass, P.O. Box 4971, Trenton, NJ 08650.
How to Cancel NJ EZ Pass
If you are ready to cancel your EZ Pass account, you can mail the transponder tag back to the customer service center. With this, you need to provide a statement saying that you want to close the account. Make sure it is signed.
When the center receives the notification and transponder, they will refund the unused balance and whatever you are entitled to back to the original payment method. You should also get your deposit back if you needed one to open the account. However, if you send back a damaged tag, you could be responsible for additional fees.
Can I use my E-ZPass in someone else’s car in NJ?
Yes. You can use your E-ZPass in someone else’s car in NJ. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. It needs to be the same vehicle classification, and you need to add the vehicle to your account to ensure the tag is properly read in the lane.
Can I go through E-ZPass lane without my transponder NJ?
Yes. You can go through the E-ZPass lanes without your transponder. Without a transponder, your license plate will be photographed, and the toll will be charged to the registered owner of the vehicle.
How do I cancel my NJ E-ZPass?
The best way to cancel your NJ E-ZPass is to contact the New Jersey E-ZPass Customer Service Center. Be sure to have your EZPass account number handy when you call or email, as they will need this information to cancel your account.
Does my NY E-ZPass work in other states?
Yes. Your NY E-ZPass will work in other states. The E-ZPass electronic toll collection system is an interoperable system that allows drivers to use the same transponder in 17 states, from Maine to North Carolina and from New Jersey to Illinois
