Florida Introduces No-Cost Toll Pass for Rental Car Drivers

New Florida Toll Pass Program Aims to Alleviate Rental Car Fees

Tolls have long posed a significant challenge for rental car drivers, often leading to unexpectedly high final bills due to daily charges for automated toll payment devices supplied by rental car companies. However, a groundbreaking initiative by a toll authority in Florida seeks to change this narrative. The Central Florida Expressway Authority, located in Orlando, has introduced a temporary toll pass program that is available at no cost to travelers renting cars from Orlando International Airport. This initiative allows drivers to access toll roads without the hefty fees typically associated with rental car transponders, giving them the ability to pay for tolls like a local.

The program, which the toll authority proudly claims is the first of its kind in the nation, aims to ensure that visitors’ last memories of their trip to Orlando are not marred by exorbitant fees for using rental car toll devices. Michelle Maikisch, the executive director of the Central Florida Expressway Authority, emphasized, “There was a misconception that toll agencies like ours or Florida’s Turnpike were pocketing those fees, but that’s not the case.” She explained that the usage fees typically go to third-party contractors handling toll payments for the rental car companies. “Our governing board consists of local elected officials, and they were receiving numerous calls and emails regarding this issue. They challenged us to devise a solution,” Ms. Maikisch added.

At the Orlando airport, signage for the Visitor Toll Pass directs travelers to download a dedicated app, where they can set up an account using a credit card. After completing the registration process, users receive a QR code that allows them to retrieve a toll pass from one of six vending machines conveniently located near the rental car counters. This pass is designed to hang from the rearview mirror of the vehicle.

To enroll in the program, travelers are required to deposit an initial amount of $10, which will be used to cover toll charges. Once the $10 is exhausted, users’ credit cards will be automatically billed for each subsequent toll incurred. If a traveler does not utilize the entire $10 for toll payments, any remaining balance will be refunded to their credit card after the toll pass is returned. Travelers can easily return the passes at 14 designated drop boxes around the airport; however, failure to return the passes will result in a $10 fine.