Golden Gate Bridge toll payment methods and where to pay
You can pay the Golden Gate Bridge toll in three ways: FasTrak (an electronic account that charges automatically), pay-as-you-go through the toll plaza, or by mail after receiving an invoice. FasTrak is the fastest option and costs less per crossing. If you don't have FasTrak, you'll drive through the toll plaza and pay with a credit card, debit card, or cash at the payment booths. If you miss paying at the plaza, the bridge authority will mail you an invoice with the toll amount plus a processing fee.
The Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District (GGBHTD) operates the toll system. Tolls are collected only when traveling southbound into Marin County; northbound traffic into San Francisco is free. The toll amount varies by vehicle type and payment method.
Key Takeaways
- FasTrak is an electronic account that deducts tolls automatically and costs less than paying at the toll plaza.
- You can pay at the toll plaza with a credit card, debit card, or cash without having an account in advance.
- If you don't pay at the plaza, GGBHTD will mail you an invoice with the toll amount plus a $5 administrative fee.
- Toll rates depend on your vehicle type (motorcycle, car, truck, or oversized vehicle) and whether you use FasTrak or pay at the plaza.
FasTrak: how the electronic toll account works
FasTrak is a prepaid account linked to your vehicle's license plate. When you cross the bridge, a sensor reads your plate and deducts the toll automatically from your account balance. You can set up FasTrak online at goldengatebridgefahstrak.org or by phone at 877-229-8655. You'll need your vehicle's license plate number, a valid email address, and a payment method (credit card or bank account) to fund the account.
FasTrak costs less per crossing than paying at the toll plaza. The discount varies by vehicle type but typically ranges from $0.50 to $1.00 per trip. Your account balance decreases each time you cross, and you can set up automatic replenishment so the account refills when it drops below a certain amount. If your balance runs out, you'll receive a violation notice in the mail.
FasTrak accounts are tied to your license plate, not to a specific vehicle. If you change vehicles, you can update your plate number in your account online. If you sell your vehicle or move out of state, you can close your account and request a refund of any remaining balance.
Paying at the toll plaza without an account
If you don't have FasTrak, you can pay at the toll plaza as you cross. The bridge has dedicated cash lanes and card payment lanes. Credit cards and debit cards are accepted at all payment booths. Cash payment is available but slower because a toll collector must process it manually.
Payment at the plaza costs more per crossing than FasTrak. Rates for a standard passenger car are higher at the plaza than with FasTrak. You'll see the toll amount displayed on signs as you approach the booths. Payment is required before you proceed across the bridge; if you cannot pay, you'll be directed to a safe area and given instructions on how to pay by mail.
Paying by mail after crossing without paying
If you cross the bridge without paying at the plaza and don't have FasTrak, GGBHTD will mail you an invoice. The invoice includes the toll amount for your vehicle type plus a $5 administrative processing fee. You'll have 30 days from the invoice date to pay. Payment can be made online at goldengatebridgefahstrak.org, by phone at 877-229-8655, by mail, or in person at the toll plaza.
If you don't pay within 30 days, the amount becomes a violation and additional penalties may explore. The bridge authority can place a hold on your vehicle registration renewal if the violation remains unpaid. Paying promptly when you receive the invoice avoids these additional consequences.
Toll rates by vehicle type and payment method
| Vehicle Type | FasTrak Rate | Plaza Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Motorcycle | Lower than car | Higher than FasTrak |
| Passenger car (2 axles) | Lowest standard rate | Highest standard rate |
| Truck (3+ axles) | Higher than car | Higher than FasTrak |
| Oversized vehicle | Highest rate | Highest rate plus surcharge |
Toll rates are set by GGBHTD and change periodically. Current rates are posted on the official Golden Gate Bridge website and at the toll plaza. Rates increase on January 1 most years. If you cross frequently, FasTrak saves money because the per-crossing cost is lower than paying at the plaza.
Setting up and managing your FasTrak account
To create a FasTrak account, visit goldengatebridgefahstrak.org and select "Open a New Account." You'll enter your vehicle's license plate, state of registration, vehicle type, and contact information. Then you'll add a payment method (credit card or bank account) and choose an initial account balance. Most people fund their account with $25 to $100 depending on how often they cross.
Once your account is active, you can log in anytime to check your balance, view crossing history, update your payment method, or adjust automatic replenishment settings. If you need to speak with someone, customer service is available by phone at 877-229-8655 Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Pacific Time.
If your FasTrak transponder or account has a problem, you can request a replacement or dispute a charge through your online account or by calling customer service. Keep your account information current so you receive important notices about balance, violations, or account changes.
Discounts and special programs
GGBHTD offers a 50% toll discount for low-income residents who meet income guidelines and live in specific Bay Area counties. The Toll Discount Program requires proof of income and residency. You can learn more and request a discount form at goldengatebridgefahstrak.org or by calling 877-229-8655.
Carpools with three or more occupants do not receive a discount on the Golden Gate Bridge toll. Some Bay Area bridges offer carpool discounts, but the Golden Gate Bridge does not currently participate in that program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I cross the bridge without paying?
GGBHTD will mail you an invoice with the toll amount plus a $5 administrative fee within 30 days. You must pay within 30 days to avoid violation penalties. If you don't pay, the amount becomes a violation and can affect your vehicle registration renewal.
Can I use someone else's FasTrak account to cross the bridge?
FasTrak accounts are tied to a specific license plate, not to a person. Only the vehicle with the registered plate should use that account. Using someone else's account with a different vehicle is toll evasion and can result in violation notices and penalties.
How long does it take to set up FasTrak?
You can create a FasTrak account online in about 10 minutes. Your account is usually active within 24 hours. You can cross the bridge when ready after your account is set up, even if you haven't received a physical transponder in the mail.
What if my FasTrak balance runs out while I'm crossing?
If your balance is too low to cover the toll, you'll receive a violation notice in the mail. You can pay the violation online, by phone, or by mail. Set up automatic replenishment in your account to avoid this situation.
Do I have to use FasTrak, or can I always pay at the plaza?
You can choose to pay at the plaza every time you cross. FasTrak is not required, but it costs less per crossing and moves traffic faster. If you cross the bridge regularly, FasTrak saves money over time.