Driving across Canada’s vast landscapes can be an amazing experience. But did you know some roads and bridges ask for a small fee? These are called toll roads.
They’re not everywhere, but it’s good to know about them before you start your journey.
This guide will tell you all about toll roads in Canada for 2024. We’ll look at where they are, how much they cost, and how you can pay.
Whether you’re planning a cross-country trip or just a short drive, understanding tolls can make your travel easier and smoother.
Toll Roads in Canada
When you’re driving in Canada, you might come across toll roads or bridges. These are roads or bridges that you have to pay to use.
The money from tolls helps to keep these roads and bridges in good shape.
In Canada, you’ll find toll roads and bridges in only four provinces:
- Ontario
- Quebec
- Nova Scotia
- Prince Edward Island
Each province has its way of handling tolls. Some use high-tech systems, while others still take cash.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about paying tolls in Canada.
How Do You Pay Tolls in Canada?
Paying tolls in Canada isn’t hard, but it can be a bit different depending on where you are.
Here are the main ways you can pay:
- Transponders: These are small devices you put in your car. They automatically pay the toll when you drive through.
- Cash: Some places still let you pay with good old cash.
- License Plate or Video: Cameras take a picture of your license plate, and you get a bill in the mail.
- Credit Card: Some toll booths accept credit cards.
- Prepaid Card: You can buy a card with money on it to use for tolls.
Let’s look at each of these methods in more detail:
1. Transponders
Transponders are the easiest way to pay tolls if you use toll roads often. Here are some transponders used in Canada:
- A25 transponder (Quebec)
- E-Pass Tag (Ontario)
- StraitPASS (Nova Scotia)
- A30 Express transponder (Quebec)
- MACPASS (Nova Scotia)
How transponders work:
- You put the small device in your car
- When you drive through a toll booth, it sends a signal
- The toll is automatically paid from your account
- You don’t have to stop or slow down
2. Cash
Some toll roads and bridges still take cash. This is good if you don’t use toll roads often. Remember:
- Have Canadian dollars ready
- Some places also take US dollars
- You might need an exact change
3. License Plate or Video Tolling
This is becoming more common. Here’s how it works:
- Cameras take a picture of your license plate as you drive through
- The toll company finds your address
- They send you a bill in the mail
- You pay the bill later
4. Credit Card
Some toll booths let you pay with a credit card. This can be handy if you don’t have cash. But remember:
- Not all toll booths take credit cards
- It might take longer than other methods
- Make sure your card works in Canada if you’re from another country
5. Prepaid Card
Some toll roads offer prepaid cards. Here’s how they work:
- You buy a card with money already on it
- You use this card to pay tolls
- When the money runs out, you can add more
How Much Do Toll Rates Cost in Canada?
The cost of tolls in Canada can vary a lot. It depends on:
- Which road or bridge you’re using
- What kind of vehicle you’re driving
- How far you’re going (on some roads)
- What time of day it is (sometimes)
Let’s look at some examples:
1. Ontario Highway 407
This is a big toll road near Toronto. The cost depends on:
- How far do you drive
- What time you’re driving
- What kind of vehicle do you have
For example:
- A car driving 20 km during busy times might pay around $10-$15
- A truck could pay much more
2. Cobequid Pass (Nova Scotia)
This is part of the Trans-Canada Highway. Costs are simpler here:
- Cars pay about $4
- Trucks pay about $24
3. Quebec A25 toll bridge
This bridge in Montreal has different prices depending on:
- If you have a transponder
- What time you’re crossing
Prices might be:
- $3.50 with a transponder during busy times
- $5.60 without a transponder during busy times
4. Confederation Bridge (to Prince Edward Island)
This long bridge has a set price:
- Cars pay about $50
- You only pay when leaving Prince Edward Island
Remember, these prices can change. Always check the current rates before you travel.
Does EZ Pass Work in Canada?
EZ Pass is a popular toll payment system in the United States. Good news – it does work in some parts of Canada! But not everywhere.
Where does EZ Pass work in Canada?
EZ Pass works on some bridges between Canada and the US. These are:
- Peace Bridge
- Rainbow Bridge
- Whirlpool Rapids Bridge (also takes NEXUS card)
- Lewiston-Queenston Bridge
- Thousand Islands Bridge
Getting an EZ Pass in Canada:
If you want an EZ Pass for use in Canada, you can get one from the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission.
Important to remember:
- EZ Pass doesn’t work on most Canadian toll roads
- It’s mainly for crossing between Canada and the US
- If you’re driving a lot in Canada, a Canadian transponder might be better
How Do You Pay for Toll Roads in Ontario?
Ontario has one main toll road: Highway 407 ETR (Electronic Toll Route). There are also two smaller connected roads: Highway 412 and Highway 418.
Ways to pay for Ontario toll roads:
- Online: You can pay your bill on the 407 ETR website
- Pre-authorized payments: Set up automatic payments from your bank account
- Online banking: Pay like you would any other bill
- Telephone banking: Call your bank to pay
- At the bank: Pay at a teller using your 407 account number
- By cheque: Mail a cheque to 407 ETR
- In person: Go to the 407 ETR Customer Service Centre
Important things to know:
- You don’t stop to pay on the 407 ETR
- Cameras read your license plate as you drive
- You get a bill in the mail later
- If you use the road a lot, getting a transponder can save money
Remember: Ontario’s busy Highway 401 is free to use. No tolls there!
How to Pay Tolls in Quebec?
Quebec has two main toll bridges:
- A25 bridge (in Montreal)
- A30 Express Bridge (south of Montreal)
How to pay for these toll bridges?
- Get a transponder: • Create an account with A25 or A30 Express • They’ll send you a transponder • This is the cheapest and easiest way if you use the bridges often
- Credit card: • You can pay with a credit card at some toll booths • This might cost more than using a transponder
- Cash: • Some toll booths take cash • This is usually more expensive than other methods
- Video tolls: • Cameras take a picture of your license plate • You get a bill in the mail • This is the most expensive way to pay
Tips for Quebec tolls:
- If you’re visiting and will use the bridges a lot, consider getting a temporary transponder
- Check the websites of A25 and A30 Express for current prices
- Prices can be higher during busy times
Trans-Canada Highway Tolls
The Trans-Canada Highway is a long road that goes across all ten Canadian provinces. Most of it is free to use, but there is one part where you have to pay a toll.
Where is the toll on the Trans-Canada Highway?
The toll part is called the Cobequid Pass Toll Highway. It’s in Nova Scotia.
How to pay the toll on Cobequid Pass:
- E-Pass tag: This is like a transponder. It’s the fastest way to pay.
- Cash: You can pay with cash at the toll booth.
Toll rates for Cobequid Pass:
- Cars pay about $4
- Trucks pay about $24
- Prices might change, so check before you go
Important to know:
- This is the only part of the Trans-Canada Highway with a toll
- The toll helps pay for keeping this part of the road in good shape
- The toll plaza is near Thomson Station, Nova Scotia
Calculate Tolls and Fuel Costs to Travel Across Canada
Planning a long trip across Canada? You’ll want to know how much it will cost. Here’s how to figure it out:
Use a trip calculator:
There are online tools that can help you calculate your costs. One good one is the TollGuru Trip Calculator. Here’s what it can do:
- Show you the best route
- Calculate how much you’ll spend on tolls
- Estimate your fuel costs
- Work for different types of vehicles (cars, trucks, buses)
- Show you where the toll booths are
- Tell you how to pay at each toll
How to use a trip calculator:
- Enter your start and end points
- Choose your vehicle type
- The calculator will show you: • The route • Total distance • Estimated time • Toll costs • Fuel costs
Tips for calculating your trip cost:
- Remember that gas prices can change
- Toll prices might be different at busy times
- Consider the time of year (winter driving might use more fuel)
- Think about stops you might make along the way
FAQs About Tolls in Canada
Here are some common questions people ask about tolls in Canada:
- 1. Are there many toll roads in Canada?
No, Canada doesn’t have a lot of toll roads. Most highways are free. Tolls are mainly found in Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
- 2. Can I pay tolls with US dollars?
At some border crossings, yes. But for most Canadian toll roads, you need Canadian dollars.
- 3. Do I need cash for tolls in Canada?
Not always. Many toll roads use electronic systems. But it’s good to have some cash just in case.
- 4. What happens if I don’t pay a toll in Canada?
You might get a fine. The amount can be much more than the original toll. It’s always best to pay on time.
- 5. Are there toll roads in Vancouver or British Columbia?
No, there are no toll roads in British Columbia right now. The last ones were made free in 2017.
- 6. How do I pay tolls if I’m renting a car in Canada?
Check with your rental company. Some handle tolls for you (for a fee). Others expect you to pay tolls yourself.
- 7. Are there discounts for frequent toll road users?
Yes, many toll roads offer discounts if you get a transponder or create an account with them.
- 8. Can I avoid toll roads in Canada?
Usually, yes. There are often free alternative routes, but they might take longer.
- 9. Do motorcycles pay the same tolls as cars?
It depends on the toll road. Some charge less for motorcycles, others charge the same for cars.
- 10. Are there any free ways to cross between Canada and the US?
Yes, many border crossings are free. But some bridges between the two countries do charge tolls.
Conclusion:
Driving in Canada can be a great experience. While you don’t encounter tolls often, it’s good to be prepared when you do.
Here’s what to remember:
- Tolls are mainly in four provinces: Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island
- There are different ways to pay: transponders, cash, credit cards, or video billing
- Costs vary depending on the road, vehicle, and time of day
- EZ Pass works at some Canada-US border crossings, but not on most Canadian toll roads
- Using a trip calculator can help you plan your costs for long trips
By understanding how tolls work in Canada, you can save time and money on your travels.
Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, being prepared for tolls will make your journey smoother.
Safe travels across the beautiful landscapes of Canada!
