If you’re new to North Texas, one of the first things you’ll notice is how toll roads connect the vastness of Dallas-Fort Worth. For new residents, navigating can take some adjustment. Below is a tolling introduction to get from point A to point B quickly, safely, and with the lowest toll rate available. This guide focuses on Navigating Texas Toll Roads.
Toll Roads 101
Navigating Texas Toll Roads: Key Tips for New Drivers
North Texas continues to be one of the fastest growing areas in the country, and toll roads help quickly deliver projects to keep the region’s large population influx moving despite limited state funding.
To help fill the transportation gap, the North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA) was created in 1997 to acquire, construct, maintain, and repair toll roads in the region. NTTA’s system spans six counties in North Texas. It is important to note not all regional toll roads are the same. NTTA does not set toll rates, operate, or maintain TEXpress lanes.
To reduce travel times and strengthen safety, North Texas uses electronic toll collection. There are two ways to pay a toll invoice: 1) set up an account and get a TollTag (a sticker that goes on your windshield and tolls are automatically deducted) or 2) pay by mail (ZipCash). A TollTag saves 50% on tolls, and you won’t have to deal with mailed invoices. Even if you don’t plan on using toll roads often, a TollTag saves on every trip and has additional benefits:
Convenience
A TollTag is the easiest and lowest way to pay tolls, but if you choose to pay toll invoices by mail at the higher rate, pay them on time to avoid late fees.
Compatibility
TollTags work on all toll roads across Texas – including TEXpress lanes – and toll roads in Oklahoma, Kansas, and most of Colorado and Florida.
Airport Parking
If you’re a frequent flier, your TollTag can be used to pay for parking at Dallas-Fort Worth International and Dallas Love Field airports, as well as pass-through tolls at DFW airport.
Free Roadside Help
If you ever need help on an NTTA road, you can dial #999 for free roadside assistance 24/7/365. NTTA’s friendly Roadside Safety Services will change a flat tire, provide enough gas to get you to the nearest gas station, jump-start dead batteries, make minor vehicle repairs, provide traffic protection, and more. Save #999 in your phone now. This number can also be found on the back of the TollTag or through NTTA’s mobile app, TollMate).
NTTA System
NTTA’s system includes five roads, two bridges, and a tunnel. These are roadways are owned, operated, and maintained by NTTA. For added convenience, NTTA also handles the back-office billing for all regional toll roads, so you’ll only receive an invoice from NTTA.
For more information on North Texas tolling or to sign up for a TollTag, visit ntta.org. NTTA can be reached by phone at 972-818-6882, online, or in-person at one of six customer service locations across North Texas.
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