E-ZPass: What It Means for TLC Drivers

E-ZPass is the electronic toll system used on New York's bridges, tunnels and highways, and in 19 states in all (NY.gov). The Port Authority describes it this way: "A small electronic device, called a tag or a transponder, is mounted on the vehicle's windshield. When the vehicle passes through a toll, the tag is read, and the transaction is calculated and processed" (Port Authority). The toll comes out of your prepaid or linked account, usually at a lower rate than Tolls by Mail.

Three parts people mix up

Why it matters to TLC drivers

For most New Yorkers E-ZPass is optional. For TLC vehicles it is required:

• Every taxi, FHV and street hail livery "must be equipped with a New York MTA Bridges & Tunnels EZ-Pass" (58-26(e)(1); 59A-23(a)(1); 82-26(f)(1)). Owners must keep an E-ZPass New York account with MTA B&T (58-27, 59A-24, 82-27).
• Drivers must not drive for hire without an E-ZPass tag. They must use it at all MTA crossings "and wherever else E-ZPass is accepted," and may use their own tag (80-15(d)).
• Passengers pay the actual amount charged to the E-ZPass. Charging more is an overcharge under Rule 80-17.

Who issued the tag also decides the price. MTA says "E-ZPass rates apply to NYCSC E-ZPass customers only. Non-NYCSC customers pay Tolls by Mail rates" (MTA). With MTA rates effective January 4, 2026, that means $12.03 instead of $7.46 for a car at the RFK Bridge.

Where you'll see the term

On your lease (whose tag is in the car), on trip receipts (taxi and green cab receipts must list tolls), on TLC summonses citing Rule 80-15(d), and in toll letters from E-ZPass New York or Tolls by Mail.

Common mix-ups

• E-ZPass vs Tolls by Mail. Tolls by Mail is not an account; it is a bill sent to the plate's owner. See Tolls by Mail.
• E-ZPass vs E-ZPass Plus. NY.gov says E-ZPass Plus can also pay for airport parking.
• "I have E-ZPass" vs "my plate is on my account." You need both to avoid bills and Mid-Tier charges.

Read the full system in E-ZPass for TLC drivers, or start with how to open an account. Also see Mid-Tier and tag mounting, what must be displayed in a TLC vehicle, NYCSC, E-ZPass tag holder, Pay Per Trip and the tolls hub.