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Released: 6/11/2026 

DRPA Reminds Summer Travelers: Bridges Accept E-ZPass & Cash Only


As the Greater Philadelphia region prepares for a summer of major sporting, cultural, and commemorative events expected to welcome millions of visitors, the Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA) is encouraging travelers to plan before crossing its bridges connecting Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

With events including the FIFA World Cup, Major League Baseball All-Star Game, America250 celebrations, concerts, festivals, and the Ben Franklin Bridge’s 100th Anniversary expected to draw increased traffic throughout the region, the DRPA reminds customers that tolls on the Ben Franklin, Walt Whitman, Commodore Barry, and Betsy Ross Bridges are currently collected via E-ZPass or cash only. DRPA bridges do not presently accept credit cards, debit cards, mobile payments, or pay-by-plate tolling. Travelers should follow overhead lane signs carefully: E-ZPass lanes accept E-ZPass only, and cash lanes accept cash only.

Visitors unfamiliar with the region are encouraged to prepare in advance to help ensure a smooth travel experience and avoid delays.

“Please remember you must have cash or E-ZPass to cross DRPA’s bridges. Drivers who arrive at our bridges without one of these forms of payment will have to turn around. It’s going to be busy this summer, and the DRPA is committed to providing a safe, reliable, and convenient travel experience for everyone crossing our bridges,” said John T. Hanson, DRPA Chief Executive Officer. “We are taking steps to keep people moving during this exceptionally busy season, and we encourage travelers to plan and familiarize themselves with our tolling process before they travel. A little preparation can help ensure a smooth and seamless trip.”

What Travelers Should Know Before Crossing a DRPA Bridge

Customers traveling across DRPA bridges should take the following steps before arriving at a toll plaza:

  • E-ZPass Accepted. Have an active E-ZPass account and a properly mounted transponder for the fastest, easiest travel experience. DRPA E-ZPass lanes accept all E-ZPass transponders and compatible interoperable toll passes, including select systems such as SunPass PRO, NC Quick Pass, E-PASS, and others. Drivers using E-ZPass lanes without a valid E-ZPass account will receive a violation notice by mail.
  • Cash Accepted. Cash toll lanes remain available for customers who do not use E-ZPass. U.S. currency only.
  • No Toll-by-Plate. DRPA bridges do not offer Toll-by-Plate or pay-by-mail tolling.
  • No Credit Card or Mobile Payments. Credit cards, debit cards, contactless payments, and mobile wallets, including Apple Pay and Google Pay, are not accepted at DRPA toll plazas.
  • Follow Lane Signs. Toll lanes are designated as either E-ZPass Only or Cash Only. Drivers should follow overhead lane signs carefully as they approach a toll plaza.


Travelers are encouraged to ensure they have an accepted form of payment before arriving at a toll plaza to help avoid delays and violation notices resulting from the improper use of E-ZPass lanes.

Tips for Event Attendees and Visitors

The DRPA encourages visitors attending regional events to:

  • Plan toll payments in advance. Include toll payment planning in driving preparations.
  • Consider obtaining an E-ZPass transponder before traveling. E-ZPass provides a fast and convenient way to cross DRPA bridges.
  • Check rental vehicle toll options. Travelers renting vehicles are encouraged to confirm toll payment options with their rental car provider.
  • Follow toll plaza signs carefully. E-ZPass lanes accept E-ZPass only, while cash lanes accept cash only.
  • Explore transit alternatives. PATCO provides convenient rail service between South Jersey and Center City Philadelphia, with connections to SEPTA transit services that provide access to additional destinations and event venues throughout the region.
  • Allow extra travel time. Increased traffic is expected during major events and peak travel periods.


Help Visitors Plan Ahead

The DRPA is also encouraging event organizers, tourism agencies, hotels, convention planners, sports venues, rental car companies, and regional partners to share toll payment information with visitors before they travel.

“We look forward to welcoming visitors to our region and helping them travel safely and efficiently throughout a busy and exciting summer,” added Hanson.

Customers can find bridge travel information, toll rates, and travel updates at DRPA.org.

 

 

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