PA Turnpike Toll Increase Hits Drivers This Weekend

Pennsylvania drivers will feel another pinch at the toll plaza starting this weekend.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has implemented its latest annual rate hike, a 4% increase that officially begins on Sunday, January 4, 2026.

While any increase is unwelcome news for commuters and commercial haulers, officials have pointed out this is the smallest percentage hike since 2014.

For the vast majority of passenger vehicles, the most common toll will climb from $1.86 to $1.94 for those using E-ZPass.

Drivers using the Toll By Plate system will see a jump from $3.72 to $3.88 for the same trip.

The new rate structure is not just a minor adjustment; it represents the 18th consecutive year of toll increases.

This latest PA Turnpike toll increase is entirely dedicated to servicing long-standing debt obligations.

The revenue will be used to make payments mandated by Act 44, a 2007 state law requiring the Turnpike to help fund broader transportation projects across the Commonwealth.

Since that law was enacted, the Commission has transferred over $8 billion to support statewide infrastructure, a move that officials say has staved off other tax increases.

Commercial vehicles will also absorb a significant increase.

The most common toll for a Class-5 tractor-trailer will rise to $24.12 for E-ZPass users and a striking $48.24 for those paying by plate.

On the Turnpike's mainline and the Northeast Extension, the per-mile rate is increasing fractionally from 7 cents to 7.3 cents.

There is some relief on the horizon, as the commission projects smaller increases in the coming years, with a 3.5% hike planned for 2027 and 3% for 2028.

Despite the consistent increases, officials maintain that E-ZPass passenger rates on the PA Turnpike remain below the national average for similar toll roads.

Drivers using E-ZPass continue to receive the most substantial discounts, often paying nearly 50% less than Toll By Plate customers.

FAQ: 2026 PA Turnpike Toll Increase

Why are PA Turnpike tolls increasing again?

The primary driver is Act 44, a state law that requires the Turnpike Commission to make annual payments to PennDOT to fund transportation projects across Pennsylvania. The entire 4% increase for 2026 is dedicated to paying this debt.

How much more will I pay?

The most common toll for a passenger car with E-ZPass will rise by 8 cents, from $1.86 to $1.94. Toll By Plate users will see a 16-cent increase from $3.72 to $3.88 for the same trip.

Is there any way to save money on tolls?

Using E-ZPass is the most effective way, saving drivers about 50% compared to Toll By Plate rates. The PA Toll Pay app also offers a 15% discount on monthly Toll By Plate bills for those who enroll in autopay.