Massachusetts uses the EZDriveMA system to collect tolls electronically all across tolled highways bridges and tunnels. No more stopping at booths every vehicle either has an E-ZPass transponder or gets billed by plate if no transponder is present. This means a license plate photo is taken and the registered owner gets a mailed invoice. Missing payments can lead to added fees or RMV registration holds. It’s essential to pick the method that works best for your driving habits and budget.
How It Works
If a vehicle has an E-ZPass MA transponder the toll is deducted automatically from your preloaded account. If no transponder is used Massachusetts takes a video image of the license plate and issues a “Pay By Plate MA Invoice” to the registered owner. Tolls must be paid within 30 days or you’ll get late fees plus registration consequences.
Payment Options
- Online via the EZDriveMA or PayByPlateMA portal where you enter invoice number or plate details.
- By mail sending a check to the Payment Processing Center.
- By phone calling the EZDriveMA Customer Service at 1-877-627-7745.
- In person at customer service centers using cash credit or debit cards.
Costs and Penalties
Standard tolls vary depending on route gantry and vehicle class E-ZPass generally has lower toll rates than Pay By Plate. There’s also a flat $0.60 administrative fee for each invoice issued. Late payment triggers additional $1.00 per overdue toll after roughly 30 days then more fees up until after 90 days there may be bank RMV holds or notice of liability fees involved.
Which Option is Right for You?
If you drive on tolled roads often getting an E-ZPass MA transponder saves money hassle and late charges. If your travel is occasional or you don’t want something installed on your windshield then Pay By Plate MA works fine just expect to see bills in the mail. Also keep your registration address up to date so invoices reach you.
| Toll Facility or Route | E-ZPass MA Rate (2-axle) | Out-of-State E-ZPass Rate | Pay By Plate MA Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Pike full length (≈138 mi) | $7.50 | $9.35 | $14.60 |
| Tobin Memorial Bridge | $1.25 | $1.75 | $3.75 |
| Boston tunnels (Sumner, Callahan, Ted Williams) | $2.05 | $2.75 | $3.90 |
Avoiding Problems
Always update plate, address or account info with the RMV or when changing vehicles or ownership so bills go to the right person. Check portal regularly because sometimes invoices get delayed or mail gets lost. If a bill looks wrong dispute it within the portal or contact customer service with photos or proof if possible. Also beware of scam messages purporting to be EZDriveMA asking for payment—EZDriveMA does not request payment via text.
Further Resources
For rate estimates and route-specific tolls check the EZDriveMA toll calculator on Mass.gov. More on EZDriveMA
To manage your invoice online or see past invoices visit the Pay By Plate MA login portal
If you need help or want to appeal a wrong invoice contact MassDOT customer service.
Some content on this site may be generated or assisted by artificial intelligence and reviewed by human editors. Information is provided for general purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. We make no warranties regarding accuracy, completeness or suitability, and users should seek independent professional advice where appropriate.