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How the Fast Track Toll System Works

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FasTrak is the electronic toll collection system (ETC) that are used in California. The ETC is used across the state on all toll roads, toll bridges, and toll lanes that are part of the California Freeway and Expressway System. FasTrak is designed to eliminate the need for vehicles to stop at pay toll booths, thereby decreasing the traffic congestion common on toll roads. Read on to find out more about how this system works.

How FasTrak Started

Because of California's government structure, the state's toll facilities are operated by a number of different agencies. The California State Legislature was concerned that each of these agencies would introduce a different incompatible ETC system, so they passed a bill in 1990 that requires all agencies statewide to conform to the same specifications. Three years later the first toll road was opened using the newly integrated ETC system and named FasTrak. The selling and maintaining of FasTrak accounts continue to be delegated to various toll agencies.

How to Use FasTrak

In order to use FasTrak, you need to order a free transponder. There are two types of transponders, the basic model and the new FasTrak Flex. The FasTrak Flex has a switch that allows the driver to indicate the number of people in the car. Driver's are instructed to set the correct FasTrak Flex switch position before their trip.

You have to open an account on the FasTrak website so you can start using your new transponder. After you're set up and have the transponder in your possession, you mount it somewhere in your car. The recommended position is on the windshield near the rear-view mirror, although the lower corners of the windshield seem to work as well.

Now that you're all set up, you can simply drive through toll lanes and the FasTrak transponder automatically charges you. Rates can vary, and depend largely on the amount of traffic congestion. Daily commute times when everyone is trying to get to and from work are the most expensive times to travel.

Solo Drivers

Solo drivers can use the Express Lane during normal driving conditions, but this lane goes into HOV ONLY mode during heavy congestion. This means the lane is no longer open to single drivers paying through FasTrak. During HOV ONLY mode, only clean air vehicles, motorcycles, and vehicles with more than two passengers are allowed on the Express Lane. Solo drivers who ignore this rule face hefty fines in the hundreds of dollars.

Carpool

Carpoolers using an Express Lane have to put their personal FasTrak tag into its Mylar bag to avoid getting charged. Instead, you'll be using your FasTrak Flex transponder, and moving the switch to indicate how many passengers are in the car. On most toll roads and toll bridges, carpoolers and motorcyclists get a discount, but there are some roads that are free for these modes of transport.