Florida Tolls: How they work, prices, SunPass and advice for tourists

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Florida is one of the top spots in the United States, chosen by many tourists to spend their holiday enjoying the good weather, beaches, big cities and theme parks. Every year, millions of people arrive in this part of the country looking for sun and something different to do. In general, in the United States, because of how the cities are laid out, it is necessary to have a car to be able to get around. Therefore, if you visit Florida, you are going to need one. And one of the first things you need to be clear about so that your trip goes smoothly is how the tolls in Florida work

At CarJet, we have put together a guide with everything you need to know to drive around Florida: tolls, prices, the Florida SunPass and tips to make the most of your holiday.

How the tolls in Florida work

Florida has an extensive network of toll motorways, known as toll roads, which help keep the infrastructure in good condition and reduce congestion. There are primarily two types of tolls:

  1. Physical tolls: these are the booths where you can pay in cash. Although they are becoming less common, they are still found on some local roads.
  2. Electronic tolls: these use automatic systems that read your number plate or an electronic transponder. Most tourists will come across this type of toll on roads like the Florida Turnpike or the express lanes in Miami.

Knowing how the tolls work is key to planning efficient routes and avoiding delays during your trip. Additionally, many tourists look for a Florida toll map to anticipate their costs and plan routes without any surprises.

SunPass Florida: The electronic toll system

The Florida SunPass is the quickest and most convenient way to pay electronic tolls throughout Florida and several other states. It works using a transponder that you stick to your windscreen or attach to the rearview mirror to ensure it is read correctly.

Advantages of using SunPass Florida

  • Avoid stopping at toll booths, saving you time on your journey.
  • Cheaper rates than paying manually or using the 'Toll-By-Plate' system.
  • Wide coverage: it works on most motorways and express lanes, including SunPass Miami.

Types of SunPass

  1. SunPass Mini: This is a single-use sticker that is permanently linked to your number plate. It works in Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Oklahoma, North Carolina and Texas, and includes SunPass Plus parking.
  2. SunPass Pro: This is a reusable rectangular device that can be moved between different vehicles, including motorcycles. It is ideal if you travel to the US frequently.
  3. SunPass App: Manage your payments from your mobile and top up your balance easily.

For tourists, using a SunPass is especially useful, as many car hire companies offer this option with the vehicle. This makes getting around much easier, as you won't have to worry about paying manually at every toll.

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Florida toll prices

Toll prices in Florida depend on the motorway, the distance travelled and the type of vehicle. Some examples include:

  • Florida Turnpike: Between $1 and $30 per section depending on the distance. This is one of the most expensive toll motorways, especially around Orlando and Miami.
  • Miami Express Lanes (I-95 Express Lanes): On this stretch, the rates are variable, depending on the time of day and traffic levels.
  • Bridges and local roads: Between $0.50 and $2.50.

Top Tip: With a Florida SunPass, the rates are usually lower and you also avoid additional surcharges. To plan better, it is recommended to check SunPass prices and a Florida toll map before starting your journey.

If you are planning a specific trip, many tourists want to know how much the tolls cost from Miami to Orlando. These can vary between $10 and $20 depending on the route and whether you use SunPass or the 'Toll-By-Plate' system.

Cómo pagar peajes sin SunPass

Although SunPass is the most convenient option, it is also possible to pay tolls without it:

  • Cash payments: Very few motorways still accept this method of payment.
  • Toll-By-Plate: The system automatically charges the toll to the car’s number plate and sends an invoice.
  • E-Pass Toll: This is a prepaid toll system that allows for automatic payment on most motorways and is managed via an app.

Important: Passing through an electronic toll without being registered can lead to fines. Because of this, even tourists using car hire must plan how they are going to pay for tolls in Florida.

Tips for tourists regarding tolls in Florida

To make the most of your road trip around Florida:

  1. Plan your routes in advance: Use a Florida toll map to see the costs for each road.
  2. Hire a car with SunPass included: Many of the companies available through CarJet offer the option to add SunPass separately. However, remember to read the terms and conditions of each deal to be sure.
  3. Calculate your toll costs: Check the prices and estimate how much you will spend on tolls so you can include it in your holiday budget.
  4. Avoid rush hour: Some motorways adjust their rates based on congestion, especially in Miami.
  5. Use navigation apps: Google Maps or Waze show tolls and alternative routes, helping you save both time and money.
  6. Frequently Asked Questions about Florida tolls

    Can you travel around Florida without using SunPass? Yes, by using 'Toll-By-Plate' or motorways that accept cash, although this is less convenient and more expensive.

    What happens if I go through a toll without paying? You will receive an invoice and potentially a fine. This is why it is recommended to use Florida SunPass or Toll-By-Plate. Additionally, if you are using a hire car, many companies may add a surcharge on top of the fine.

    Does SunPass work on all Florida motorways?  It covers the majority of motorways and express lanes, including the SunPass system, but some local roads still require cash payments or Toll-By-Plate.

    How much do the tolls cost from Miami to Orlando?  Depending on the route and whether you use SunPass, the approximate cost is between $10 and $20. However, some tolls are more expensive and others vary based on traffic levels.

    Travel around Florida with CarJet

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    One of the most convenient and almost essential ways to get around Florida is by car. If you are arriving as a tourist and need to book a hire car, the best option is to use CarJet to compare thousands of companies and choose the deal that suits you best.

    Travelling around Florida by car is much more convenient and faster when you understand how the Florida tolls work and use electronic systems like SunPass, which helps you avoid fines, save time, and pay lower rates.