NEW YORK– Congestion pricing has officially started in New York City, where most drivers now have to pay $9 to enter Manhattan’s Congestion Relief Zone during rush hours.
Here are some ways to save as you drive into town.
Breakdown of congestion pricing exemptions
Click here for more information on how to apply for the above savings.
Discounts on congestion pricing for E-ZPass holders
Drivers can use their E-ZPass or pay by mail, but that is about 50% more expensive. The $9 toll would cost about $13.50 per mail.
E-ZPass holders also get a $3 credit when taking the Holland, Hugh L. Carey, Lincoln or Queens-Midtown tunnels into Manhattan during peak hours.
How to Get E-ZPass
New York drivers can sign up for E-ZPass online here, by phone at 1-800-333-TOLL (8655), or by downloading and printing the application. For payments you must enter your license plate number and a checking account or credit card number.
New Jersey drivers can apply online here, by phone at 1-888-AUTO-TOLL (888 288-6865), or by printing the application.
E-ZPass also offers discounted plans for some commuters in New York and New Jersey, as well as low-emission vehicles.
If you already have an E-ZPass, make sure the license plate number associated with your account is up to date.
Will my out-of-state E-ZPass work?
It depends on the state. E-ZPass is available in the following locations and will be compatible with local toll rates:
- Delaware
- Florida
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Virginia
- West Virginia
E-ZPass says the service will soon be available in Georgia. Each state has its own E-ZPass website to check your account status.
Lyft offers congestion pricing credits
The ride-share company says it will offset the $1.50 fee and credit riders $1.50 toward a future Lyft or Citi Bike ride. Eligible trips must begin, end, or pass through Manhattan’s Congestion Relief Zone, south of 60th Street, and credits are valid for the following week.
The promotion will last through the month of January, Lyft says, to “help riders ring in the new year.”
“In 2025, we want riders to relax and focus on a ‘new me,’ not new fees,” the company wrote in a press release announcing the credit. Read more about how it works here.
