Drivers using the Pennsylvania Turnpike will face higher tolls starting January 4, 2026. The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has approved a 4% increase across its system. This marks the lowest rate hike seen since 2014, impacting both E-ZPass and Toll By Plate customers.
Key Takeaways
- Pennsylvania Turnpike tolls will increase by 4% on January 4, 2026.
- This is the smallest percentage increase since 2014.
- The most common E-ZPass passenger vehicle toll rises to $1.94.
- Toll By Plate users will pay $3.88 for the same trip.
- The increase primarily funds debt service under Act 44.
New Toll Rates for Commuters
The upcoming increase will adjust the cost for typical passenger vehicle trips. For E-ZPass users, the most common toll will move from $1.86 to $1.94. This represents an eight-cent increase for frequent travelers.
Toll By Plate customers, who pay by mail, will see a larger jump. Their most common toll will increase from $3.72 to $3.88. This difference highlights the continued incentive for drivers to use E-ZPass.
Toll Impact Snapshot
- E-ZPass Passenger Vehicle: From $1.86 to $1.94
- Toll By Plate Passenger Vehicle: From $3.72 to $3.88
- E-ZPass Class-5 Tractor-Trailer: From $23.16 to $24.12
- Toll By Plate Class-5 Tractor-Trailer: From $46.32 to $48.24
Commercial vehicles will also experience these new rates. A Class-5 tractor-trailer using E-ZPass will see its most common toll rise from $23.16 to $24.12. For Toll By Plate, the same vehicle will pay $48.24, up from $46.32.
How Per-Mile Rates Change
On the main sections of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and the Northeast Extension, tolls are calculated based on distance. The per-mile rate will increase from $0.07 to $0.073. Additionally, a segment fee will move from $1.09 to $1.13.
For other turnpike extensions, where distance-based calculation is not supported, the increase will be a flat 4%. All toll rates are rounded up to the nearest penny.
Understanding Act 44 and Its Role
The primary reason for these annual toll increases is Act 44 of 2007. This legislation mandates that the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission contribute to statewide ground transportation funding. This goes beyond the turnpike's own operational needs.
What is Act 44?
Act 44 of 2007 is a Pennsylvania law that requires the Turnpike Commission to provide financial assistance for general statewide ground transportation projects. This funding is separate from the operational costs of the Turnpike itself. It was enacted as an alternative to raising state taxes for transportation.
Since 2008, the Commission has provided more than $8 billion to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for this purpose. This significant financial obligation directly influences the need for regular toll adjustments.
"The toll increase will be used entirely to repay the debt service under Act 44," a representative stated, highlighting the direct link between the legislation and the rising costs for drivers.
Before Act 44, the Pennsylvania Turnpike raised tolls only five times over 64 years. The current legislation has fundamentally changed this pattern, establishing a schedule of regular increases.
Future Toll Adjustments Planned
The current 4% increase is part of a multi-year plan. In 2027, the toll increases are set to drop to 3.5%. By 2028, the rate of increase will further decrease to 3%.
These planned reductions suggest a gradual easing of the annual percentage hikes. However, drivers should anticipate continued adjustments for the foreseeable future as the Commission works to meet its financial commitments.
Impact on Travelers
- Budgeting: Drivers should factor these annual increases into their travel budgets.
- E-ZPass Benefits: The significant difference between E-ZPass and Toll By Plate rates makes E-ZPass a more economical choice.
- Long-Term Planning: Businesses and commuters relying heavily on the turnpike will need to consider these ongoing costs.
The Pennsylvania Turnpike remains a vital transportation artery for the state. These toll adjustments ensure its continued operation and contribute to broader transportation initiatives, though at an increased cost to its users.
