Washington Tolls: E-ZPass? More Like E-Z Miss!
So you're cruisin' down the highway, windows down, hair blowin' in the breeze (or should we say, rain drippin' on your head, because, well, Washington). You hit a toll booth,, and panic starts to set in. "Where's my E-ZPass?!" you shout, frantically searching the minivan that now resembles a toddler's lost toy box. But fear not, fellow traveler, because...
Uh Oh! E-ZPass Does NOT Work in Washington!
Tip: Break it down — section by section.
That's right, folks. E-ZPass is about as useful as a chocolate teapot in the Evergreen State. Washington has its own electronic toll system called Good To Go! Don't worry, it's much more exciting than it sounds (probably not involving a goose chase with a rogue breakfast pastry).
Tip: Don’t skim past key examples.
Here's the Deal with Tolls in Washington:
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
- Good To Go! is King (or should we say, Governor): This is the electronic toll system you'll need. Get a transponder for your car, or sign up for a pay-by-mail option.
- Cash and Toll Booths? Still an Option (in Some Places): While electronic tolling is becoming more common, some bridges and tunnels still have good old-fashioned cash booths.
- Rental Car? No Worries (Kind Of): Most rental companies equip their cars with Good To Go! or a similar system. Just be prepared to pay any tolls incurred when you return the vehicle.
Okay, Okay, Enough with the Sightseeing, How Do I Pay These Tolls?
Tip: Focus on clarity, not speed.
- Get a Good To Go! Pass: This is the most convenient option. Sign up online or at retail locations. https://wsdot.wa.gov/travel/roads-bridges/toll-roads-bridges-tunnels/good-go-accounts-passes
- Pay by Mail: If you're a rebel who hates signing up for things (we feel you), you can opt for a toll bill mailed to your registered address. But beware! There's usually a hefty fee for this option.
- Cash is King (Sometimes): As mentioned earlier, some toll booths still accept cash.
How To FAQs:
- How to Get a Good To Go! Pass? Head over to https://wsdot.wa.gov/travel/roads-bridges/toll-roads-bridges-tunnels/good-go-accounts-passes and sign up online or find a retail location near you.
- How to Pay a Toll Bill? If you opted for pay-by-mail, instructions will be included on the toll bill you receive.
- How to Check My Good To Go! Balance? You can check your balance online or by calling the Good To Go! customer service line.
- How to Avoid Tolls Altogether? Well, that's a tough one. Maybe take the scenic route? But be prepared for some extra travel time.
- How to Deal with the Existential Dread of Not Having the Right Toll Pass? Distract yourself with some classic grunge music. After all, you are in Washington! But seriously, don't worry, just follow the steps above and you'll be good to go (pun intended).