Is an Illinois I-PASS the Same as an E-ZPass? A Comparison of Two Toll Payment Systems

Is an Illinois I-PASS the Same as an E-ZPass? A Comparison of Two Toll Payment SystemsPhoto byUnplash

Illinois I-PASS and E-ZPass are both electronic toll collection systems that make it easier for drivers to pay tolls without having to stop and pay cash. While these systems have similarities, many drivers wonder if an Illinois I-PASS is the same as an E-ZPass.

The answer to this question is no. An Illinois I-PASS and an E-ZPass are two different toll collection systems that are not interchangeable. An Illinois I-PASS is only valid on toll roads in Illinois, while an E-ZPass is accepted in 17 states, including Illinois. However, both systems work in a similar way by using an electronic tag that is mounted on the windshield of a vehicle. When a driver passes through a toll plaza, the tag is read and the toll is automatically deducted from the driver's account. 

Overview of Toll Pass Systems

Toll pass systems are electronic payment systems that allow drivers to pay tolls without stopping at the toll booth. Instead, a small device called a transponder is mounted on the windshield of the vehicle, and the toll is automatically deducted from a prepaid account as the vehicle passes through the toll plaza. Two popular toll pass systems in the United States are the I-PASS and the E-ZPass.

An Illinois I-PASS and an E-ZPass are similar in that both are electronic toll collection systems used for paying tolls on highways and bridges. However, they are not the same. The Illinois I-PASS is specifically designed for use on toll roads in Illinois, while the E-ZPass is used in 19 states across the northeastern United States, including Massachusetts. If you need to make an E-ZPass MA appointment, you can do so through the official E-ZPass Massachusetts website or by contacting their customer service.

Understanding I-PASS

I-PASS is the electronic toll collection system used by the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority (ISTHA) on its toll highways. It was launched on November 18, 1993, with the opening of Interstate 355 (Veterans Memorial Tollway) [1]. The I-PASS transponder is a small, rectangular device that attaches to the inside of the windshield behind the rearview mirror. When a vehicle equipped with an I-PASS transponder passes through a toll plaza, the toll is automatically deducted from the driver's prepaid account [2].

Benefits of using I-PASS include saving money and avoiding fines and fees. I-PASS and E-ZPass customers enjoy 50% off Illinois Tollway tolls, and I-PASS users never have to worry about paying fines and fees [3]. Account alerts keep users up to date, alerting them to out-of-date credit cards and low account balances, ensuring they never pay more than their tolls [3].

Understanding E-ZPass

E-ZPass is an electronic toll collection system used on most tolled roads, bridges, and tunnels in the northeastern United States, as well as in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio [4]. The E-ZPass transponder is a small, rectangular device that attaches to the inside of the windshield behind the rearview mirror, similar to the I-PASS transponder. When a vehicle equipped with an E-ZPass transponder passes through a toll plaza, the toll is automatically deducted from the driver's prepaid account [5].

Benefits of using E-ZPass include saving money, reducing travel time, and avoiding fines and fees. E-ZPass users save money by paying a discounted toll rate, and they also save time by avoiding toll plaza delays [6]. Additionally, E-ZPass users never have to worry about paying fines and fees, as account alerts keep them up to date on their account balance and credit card information [6].

Overall, while the I-PASS and Ez pass ma are both electronic toll collection systems, they are not the same and are not interchangeable. Drivers who frequently travel on toll roads in Illinois should consider getting an I-PASS, while drivers who frequently travel on tolled roads, bridges, and tunnels in the northeastern United States should consider getting an E-ZPass.

Compatibility and Interoperability

I-PASS and E-ZPass are two different tolling systems that operate in different regions of the United States. However, they are compatible and interoperable with each other. This means that I-PASS transponders can be used to pay tolls on E-ZPass roads, and E-ZPass transponders can be used to Pay tolls on I-PASS roads.

I-PASS Use in E-ZPass Lanes

When using an I-PASS transponder on an E-ZPass road, the toll is deducted from the I-PASS account at the discounted I-PASS rate. This is because the I-PASS and E-ZPass systems have a reciprocity agreement that allows for the exchange of tolling data between the two systems. This means that I-PASS customers can use their transponders on E-ZPass roads without having to open an E-ZPass account.

E-ZPass Use in I-PASS Lanes

Similarly, when using an E-ZPass transponder on an I-PASS road, the toll is deducted from the E-ZPass account at the discounted I-PASS rate. This is because the I-PASS and E-ZPass systems have a reciprocal agreement that allows for the exchange of tolling data between the two systems. This means that E-ZPass customers can use their transponders on I-PASS roads without having to open an I-PASS account.

It is important to note that while I-PASS and E-ZPass are compatible and interoperable, there may be some differences in toll rates and discounts between the two systems. It is recommended that drivers check the toll rates and discounts for each system before using their transponders on a different system's road. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the transponder is properly mounted on the windshield to ensure accurate tolling.

Purchasing and Managing Passes

How to Get an I-PASS

To get an I-PASS, drivers can visit the Illinois Tollway website or any of the Tollway's customer service centers. They can also purchase an I-PASS at select Jewel-Osco, Road Ranger, and I-PASS retail locations. Drivers can choose to buy a transponder for a deposit of $10, which will be credited to their account after they register the device. Alternatively, they can choose to purchase a transponder without a deposit for $30.

Once drivers have purchased an I-PASS, they will need to activate the device by registering it online or by calling the I-PASS customer service center. After activation, drivers can manage their I-PASS account online, by phone, or through the I-PASS mobile app. They can add funds to their account, update their personal information, and view their transaction history.

How to Get an E-ZPass

To get an E-ZPass, drivers can visit the E-ZPass website or any of the E-ZPass customer service centers in the participating states. They can also purchase an E-ZPass at select retail locations, such as AAA and grocery stores. Drivers will need to pay by plate invoice a one-time fee of $25 for the transponder, which will be credited to their account after they register the device.

After purchasing an E-ZPass, drivers will need to activate the device by registering it online or by calling the E-ZPass customer service center. They can manage their E-ZPass account online or through the E-ZPass mobile app. They can add funds to their account, update their personal information, and view their transaction history.

Both I-PASS and E-ZPass offer similar features and benefits to drivers. However, it is important to note that they are separate tolling systems and cannot be used interchangeably. Drivers who frequently travel through toll roads in Illinois should consider purchasing an I-PASS, while drivers who frequently travel through toll roads in other states should consider purchasing an E-ZPass.