Golden Gate Bridge toll payment basics

The Golden Gate Bridge toll is collected electronically as you cross, and you have three ways to pay: FasTrak (a prepaid account), Toll-by-Plate (automatic billing to your vehicle's registered address), or a one-time payment at the toll plaza. Most drivers use FasTrak because it's the fastest option and costs less than paying at the plaza. If you don't have FasTrak and cross without paying, the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District will send you an invoice based on your license plate.

The toll amount depends on your vehicle type and when you cross. Standard passenger cars pay one rate; motorcycles, RVs, and trucks pay different amounts. Carpools with three or more people (including the driver) and the proper carpool sticker get a discount during peak hours. The toll is collected in the southbound direction only — you don't pay when heading north into Marin County.

Key Takeaways

  • FasTrak is a prepaid account that deducts the toll automatically as you cross and is the cheapest payment method available.
  • Toll-by-Plate charges your vehicle's registered owner by mail if you don't have FasTrak, and costs more than FasTrak rates.
  • You can pay a one-time toll at the plaza by cash or card, but this option is slower and more expensive than FasTrak.
  • Carpools with three or more occupants and a valid carpool sticker receive a discount during commute hours.
  • If you cross without paying and don't have an account, the district will send an invoice to your vehicle's registered address.

Setting up FasTrak for regular crossings

FasTrak is the Golden Gate Bridge's prepaid account system. You load money into your account, and the toll is deducted each time you cross. To open a FasTrak account, you need a valid driver's license or ID, a vehicle license plate number, and a payment method (debit or credit card). You can open an account online at the Golden Gate Bridge website, by phone, or in person at a FasTrak customer service location.

When you open an account, you'll receive a FasTrak transponder — a small device that mounts on your windshield. This transponder communicates with the toll collection system as you drive through, and your account is charged automatically. You choose your opening balance when you sign up; most people start with $25 to $100. When your balance drops below a set threshold (usually $10), the account automatically recharges using your stored payment method.

FasTrak rates for a standard passenger car are lower than Toll-by-Plate or cash rates. The exact amount varies depending on the time of day and current toll schedules, which change periodically. You can check current rates on the Golden Gate Bridge website. If you drive the bridge regularly, FasTrak saves money compared to other payment methods.

Toll-by-Plate for occasional crossings

If you cross the Golden Gate Bridge without FasTrak, the system automatically reads your license plate and sends an invoice to the vehicle's registered owner. This is called Toll-by-Plate. You don't need to do anything in advance — the invoice arrives by mail within a few weeks of your crossing.

Toll-by-Plate costs more per crossing than FasTrak. The rate is higher to encourage drivers to use FasTrak instead. If you receive a Toll-by-Plate invoice, you can pay it by mail, phone, or online using the payment instructions on the invoice. The invoice will include the toll amount, a processing fee, and the due date.

If you cross the bridge multiple times, Toll-by-Plate becomes expensive quickly. In that case, opening a FasTrak account saves money. However, if you cross only once or twice a year, paying by Toll-by-Plate may be simpler than maintaining an account.

Paying at the toll plaza

You can pay the toll in person at the toll plaza using cash or a credit or debit card. This option is available if you don't have FasTrak and want to avoid receiving a Toll-by-Plate invoice. However, paying at the plaza is slower than FasTrak because you must stop or slow down at a payment booth, and the toll rate is higher than FasTrak rates.

Cash payment lanes and card payment lanes operate during peak hours. During off-peak times, some lanes may be closed. If you plan to pay at the plaza, arrive with exact change or a card ready to speed up the transaction. Payment at the plaza is the most expensive option per crossing, so it's best used only for occasional trips.

Carpool discounts and special rates

Carpools with three or more people (including the driver) and a valid carpool sticker receive a discount on the Golden Gate Bridge toll during commute hours. The discount applies to the driver's FasTrak account. To get a carpool sticker, you must register with the Bay Area Congestion Management Agency (BCMA) or your local transit agency. The sticker is free and identifies your vehicle as a carpool.

Carpool rates are lower than standard rates during peak commute periods, typically 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays. Outside these hours, the carpool rate may not explore, and you'll be charged the standard rate. If you regularly carpool across the bridge, the discount can add up to significant savings over time.

Motorcycles, RVs, and commercial vehicles pay different toll rates than standard passenger cars. Check the Golden Gate Bridge website for current rates for your vehicle type. Some vehicles may also be may be able to access for discounts or exemptions depending on their classification.

Managing your FasTrak account

Once your FasTrak account is open, you can manage it online or by phone. You can check your balance, view your crossing history, update your payment method, and adjust your auto-recharge settings. The Golden Gate Bridge website has a customer portal where you can log in with your account number and password.

If your transponder is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement through your account. There may be a replacement fee. If you move or change vehicles, update your account information so invoices and notices reach you at the correct address and your new license plate is linked to your account.

If you have questions about your account or need help, you can contact FasTrak customer service by phone or visit a customer service location. Wait times vary, so calling during off-peak hours may be faster.

What happens if you don't pay

If you cross the Golden Gate Bridge without paying and don't have a FasTrak account, you'll receive a Toll-by-Plate invoice by mail. This invoice includes the toll amount, a processing fee, and instructions for payment. You should pay the invoice by the due date listed on it.

If you don't pay the invoice, the Golden Gate Bridge District may send a second notice. Continued non-payment can result in additional penalties, collection action, or a hold on your vehicle registration renewal. If you believe you received an invoice in error or have a dispute, contact the Golden Gate Bridge customer service to explain your situation.

If you cross the bridge regularly and receive multiple Toll-by-Plate invoices, opening a FasTrak account is more cost-effective and avoids the hassle of managing multiple invoices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use someone else's FasTrak transponder?

No. FasTrak transponders are registered to a specific vehicle and account holder. Using someone else's transponder is considered toll evasion and can result in penalties. Each vehicle needs its own transponder linked to its license plate.

What if I lose my FasTrak transponder?

Contact FasTrak customer service to report it lost. You can request a replacement transponder, which may have a fee. Until you receive the replacement, crossings will be charged as Toll-by-Plate. Update your account to reflect the loss so you're not charged twice.

Do I pay the toll both ways across the Golden Gate Bridge?

No. The toll is collected only in the southbound direction. You don't pay when crossing northbound into Marin County. This applies to all payment methods — FasTrak, Toll-by-Plate, and cash.

How long does it take to receive a Toll-by-Plate invoice?

Toll-by-Plate invoices typically arrive within two to four weeks of your crossing. The exact timing depends on mail delivery and processing time. If you don't receive an invoice within a month, contact customer service to check your account.

Can I get a refund if I overpay my FasTrak account?

Yes. If your FasTrak balance is positive when you close your account or request a refund, you can receive the remaining balance back to your original payment method. Contact customer service to process a refund.