How to Pay Tolls in Illinois with a Rental Car

Navigating Illinois’ extensive toll road system can be a point of concern for many drivers, especially those behind the wheel of a rental car. Understanding how to pay tolls in Illinois with a rental car is crucial to avoid unexpected fees, administrative charges, and potential penalties. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the various payment methods available, explain how rental car companies handle tolls, and offer practical tips to ensure a smooth, worry-free journey through the state. With proper planning and knowledge, you can enjoy Illinois’ roadways without the stress of toll collection.

Understanding Illinois’ Toll Road System

how to pay tolls in illinois with a rental car — How to Pay Tolls in Illinois with a Rental Car

The Illinois Tollway operates a network of toll roads that crisscross the state, primarily serving the greater Chicago metropolitan area and extending into other regions. Unlike some states that still rely heavily on cash toll booths, the Illinois Tollway has largely transitioned to an all-electronic toll collection system. This means there are no longer cash lanes at most toll plazas, and drivers must use an electronic transponder or pay online after their trip. This shift emphasizes the importance of understanding electronic payment options, especially when driving a vehicle that isn’t your own.

The system relies on overhead gantries that detect transponders or capture license plate images. If a transponder isn’t detected, the system records the vehicle’s license plate. This “Pay By Plate” mechanism allows drivers to pay tolls online after they’ve been incurred, but it comes with strict deadlines and potential surcharges if not handled promptly. For drivers in a rental car, this electronic system presents a unique challenge, as the vehicle’s registration is tied to the rental company, not the driver.

Rental Car Company Toll Policies

The primary challenge when trying to pay tolls in Illinois with a rental car stems from the rental agreement and the company’s specific policies regarding toll collection. Each major rental car company typically has its own program or approach, and understanding these can save you significant time and money. It’s imperative to inquire about their toll policy when you pick up your vehicle or, even better, review it in your rental agreement beforehand.

Most rental companies offer a convenience program that automatically handles tolls for you. While these programs provide ease of use, they often come with administrative fees in addition to the actual toll charges. These fees can sometimes add up, making a seemingly small toll considerably more expensive. Let’s explore the common ways rental companies manage tolls:

Automatic Toll Programs (e.g., PlatePass, TollPass, eToll)

Many rental companies partner with third-party providers or operate their own systems to process tolls. These programs typically work by:

Transponder or License Plate Reading: The rental car is equipped with a transponder, or its license plate is registered with the toll program.
Toll Incurrence: As you drive through toll plazas, the system detects the transponder or captures the license plate.
Billing: The tolls are then charged to the rental company’s account, which in turn bills you.
Administrative Fees: This is where the cost can escalate. In addition to the actual toll, the rental company or its third-party provider will add an administrative fee for each day you use the service, or a flat fee per rental period. These fees can range from a few dollars per day (often capped at a maximum per rental) to a flat rate for the entire rental, regardless of how many tolls you incur.

Examples of common programs:

PlatePass (e.g., Hertz, Dollar, Thrifty): This system uses the vehicle’s license plate. If you drive through a cashless toll, PlatePass records the toll, and the charges (plus administrative fees) are billed to your credit card on file with the rental company.
TollPass (e.g., Enterprise, National, Alamo): These companies often use a similar system, where tolls are automatically detected, aggregated, and then charged to your credit card with added service fees.
eToll (e.g., Avis, Budget): Another common program that operates similarly, adding convenience fees to the actual toll amounts.

It’s crucial to clarify if these programs are opt-in or opt-out. Some rental companies automatically enroll you, and you must explicitly decline if you wish to use an alternative method. Others only charge you if you use a toll road. Always ask about the activation process and the specific fee structure.

Direct Billing to the Driver

In rarer cases, some smaller local rental agencies might not have a sophisticated automatic tolling system. They might instead provide you with an I-Pass transponder to use, or simply instruct you to pay any tolls directly via the “Pay By Plate” system. If they provide a transponder, ensure it’s properly linked to the rental vehicle and activated.

The most important takeaway is to never assume. Always confirm the toll policy with your specific rental company before leaving the lot. This initial conversation can save you from unexpected charges later.

How to Pay Tolls in Illinois with a Rental Car: Your Options

Once you understand the rental company’s policy, you can then choose the best method for how to pay tolls in Illinois with a rental car. There are typically three main approaches, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Option 1: Using the Rental Company’s Toll Program

This is often the most convenient method, particularly for those unfamiliar with Illinois’ toll system or for short-term rentals.

How it works: As described above, the rental company’s system (e.g., PlatePass, TollPass) automatically detects and processes tolls incurred by the vehicle. The charges, along with any associated administrative fees, are later billed to the credit card you used for the rental.
Pros:
- Convenience: You don’t have to worry about missing a payment deadline or navigating the online payment system.
- No fines: As long as the system works, you won’t incur late fees or violations from the Illinois Tollway.
Cons:
- High cost: The administrative fees can significantly inflate the total cost of tolls. A $1 toll could become $10 or more after fees.
- Lack of transparency: You might not see the detailed breakdown of tolls and fees until weeks after your trip.
Recommendation: Good for occasional toll road use or if convenience outweighs cost concerns. Confirm the exact fee structure with your rental company.

Option 2: Using Your Own I-Pass or E-ZPass Transponder

If you frequently drive in states with electronic tolling and already own a transponder, this can be a cost-effective solution. Illinois’ I-Pass is part of the E-ZPass network, meaning most E-ZPass transponders from other states will work on the Illinois Tollway.

How it works: You would use your personal I-Pass or E-ZPass transponder in the rental car.
Crucial Step: Before doing so, you MUST log into your I-Pass or E-ZPass account online and temporarily add the rental car’s license plate number to your account. This links the vehicle to your transponder, ensuring tolls are properly debited from your personal account.
Important: Remember to remove the rental car’s license plate from your account after returning the vehicle to avoid accidental charges if another driver uses it on a toll road.
Pros:
- Cost-effective: You only pay the actual toll rate, often at a discounted transponder rate, without extra administrative fees.
- Direct control: All tolls are paid from your personal account, offering immediate visibility of charges.
Cons:
- Risk of double billing: If you don’t properly link the rental car’s plate to your account, or if the rental company’s system also activates, you could be charged twice. Some rental companies advise against using personal transponders due to potential conflicts with their own systems. Always ask the rental company if they allow or recommend this method.
- Forgetting to update: If you forget to add the rental car’s plate, the tolls will be recorded as “Pay By Plate” and could lead to fines for the rental company, which will then pass those fines (plus administrative fees) onto you.
Recommendation: This is a good option if you already have a transponder and are confident in managing your online account details. Verify with the rental company that using your personal transponder is acceptable. If they have their own transponder, store yours in a foil bag or the glove box to prevent double billing.

Option 3: Paying Online via Illinois Tollway’s “Pay By Plate” System

This method involves paying tolls individually online after you’ve driven through them. It requires proactive monitoring and quick action.

How it works: The Illinois Tollway’s system captures your rental car’s license plate. You then have 14 days from the date of your first unpaid toll to pay online at the Illinois Tollway website (www.illinoistollway.com) using their “Pay By Plate” service.
Crucial Step: You will need the rental car’s license plate number, the state of issuance (Illinois), and your travel dates. You can look up tolls by license plate.
Timing is everything: It’s vital to pay within the 14-day window. If you wait too long, the rental company’s system will likely activate and pay the tolls, then charge you their administrative fees on top of the toll, even if you were planning to pay yourself. Once the rental company has paid, you cannot retroactively pay them yourself.
Pros:
- Avoids rental company fees: If executed correctly and promptly, you only pay the actual toll amount.
- Flexibility: You don’t need a transponder or to enroll in special programs.
Cons:
- Strict deadline: Missing the 14-day window can result in significant late fees and administrative charges from the rental company.
- Requires diligence: You must actively remember to pay and track your tolls.
- Potential for disputes: If the rental company pays before you do, you might have difficulty getting them to refund their fees.
Recommendation: Best for drivers who are organized, can track their toll usage, and are committed to paying promptly online. This method offers the best cost savings if managed correctly. Remember to obtain the rental car’s license plate number before you leave the rental lot.

Step-by-Step Guide to Paying Online (Option 3)

For those opting to pay online directly, here’s a detailed process:

Record License Plate: Before driving off the rental lot, make sure you have the exact license plate number of your rental car, including the state (Illinois). Take a photo for accuracy if needed.
Drive on Toll Roads: Use the toll roads as needed. Do not stop at toll plazas searching for cash lanes, as most are electronic only.
Track Your Tolls (Optional but Recommended): Make a mental note or jot down which toll roads you used and roughly when. This can help verify charges later.
Visit Illinois Tollway Website: As soon as possible, and certainly within 14 days of your first toll, go to the official Illinois Tollway website: www.illinoistollway.com.
Navigate to “Pay Unpaid Tolls”: Look for a section related to “Pay By Plate” or “Unpaid Tolls.”
Enter Vehicle Information: Input the rental car’s license plate number and the state of registration (Illinois). You will also enter the dates of your travel.
Review and Pay: The system will display the tolls associated with that license plate and date range. Review them carefully.
Complete Payment: Use a credit card to complete the payment. You will receive a confirmation, which you should save for your records.

Important consideration: Rental car companies may not register their cars with the tollway until tolls have been incurred, or until a few days after. It might take 24-48 hours for your tolls to appear in the system after you’ve driven through them. Try to check daily if you’re approaching the 14-day deadline.

Consequences of Not Paying Tolls in Illinois

Ignoring tolls, whether by choice or oversight, can lead to several undesirable outcomes, especially with a rental car.

From the Illinois Tollway

Fines and Violations: Unpaid tolls within the 14-day window will escalate to violation notices. These include the original toll amount plus a fine (e.g., $20 per toll).
Driving Record Impact: Persistent violations can lead to suspension of driving privileges in Illinois, and information may be shared with other states.
Collection Agencies: Severe or numerous violations can be turned over to collection agencies, further damaging your credit and increasing costs.

From the Rental Car Company

This is where the costs can really add up for rental car drivers.

Administrative Fees: As discussed, rental companies will levy their own administrative fees for processing unpaid tolls on your behalf. These fees are in addition to the actual toll amounts and any fines from the Tollway. A single missed toll could cost you the toll, a Tollway fine, and a rental company administrative fee (e.g., $15-$30 per instance or per day of the rental).
Credit Card Charges: All these charges will be billed to the credit card on file, often without prior notification, sometimes weeks or even months after your rental.
Future Rental Issues: Repeated non-payment or disputes could lead to being blacklisted by the rental company, making it difficult to rent cars in the future.

This highlights why understanding how to pay tolls in Illinois with a rental car is so critical. Proactive payment is always more affordable than reactive payment.

Tips for a Smooth Toll Experience with a Rental Car

To ensure your trip through Illinois is as pleasant and toll-free (from administrative fees, at least) as possible, keep these tips in mind:

Read Your Rental Agreement: This cannot be stressed enough. The agreement details the rental company’s specific toll policy and associated fees.
Inquire at the Counter: When picking up your rental car, explicitly ask about their toll policy. Ask:
- Do you have an automatic toll program?
- What are the daily/rental fees for this program?
- Can I opt out of it?
- What happens if I use my own transponder?
- What happens if I choose to pay online myself?
Get the License Plate Number: If you plan to pay online, ensure you have the exact license plate number (and state, usually Illinois) of your rental car. Take a picture of the plate.
Decide Your Strategy Early: Before you even hit a toll road, decide whether you’ll use the rental company’s program, your own transponder, or pay online.
Track Your Tolls: If paying online, keep a record of when and where you incurred tolls.
Pay Promptly: If you’re paying online, do so as soon as possible, well within the 14-day grace period. Don’t wait until day 13.
Consider Avoiding Tolls (if feasible): For shorter distances or if you have plenty of time, mapping apps like Google Maps or Waze often have an option to “avoid tolls.” While this might extend your travel time, it eliminates the need to worry about toll payments altogether. This is often more practical for local driving rather than cross-state journeys.
Keep Records: Save all receipts, confirmations, and any communications with the rental company or Illinois Tollway regarding tolls. This is your proof in case of a dispute. The website of maxmotorsmissouri.com also offers helpful tips on car maintenance and driving, which can sometimes include advice on navigating different state regulations.
Return Personal Transponders to a Shielded Bag: If you use your own E-ZPass or I-Pass, make sure to put it in the provided foil bag or glove box if the rental car also has a transponder or a system to detect tolls via license plate. This prevents conflicting signals and potential double charges.

Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois Tolls and Rental Cars

Can I pay cash at Illinois toll booths?

Almost all Illinois Tollway plazas are now fully electronic. There are very few, if any, cash payment options remaining. Relying on cash will likely result in a violation.

How do I know if I drove on a toll road?

The Illinois Tollway has clear signage indicating “Tollway” and electronic gantry systems. If you’re unsure, check your route on a mapping app beforehand.

What if I don’t pay a toll within 14 days?

If you don’t pay within the 14-day grace period, the Illinois Tollway will issue a violation notice with added fines. If you’re in a rental car, the rental company will eventually receive this notice, pay the fine and toll, and then charge you their administrative fees on top of everything.

Can I dispute a toll charge from a rental company?

You can try to dispute charges if you believe they are incorrect or if you already paid the toll directly. Provide documentation (receipts, confirmations) as proof. However, disputing administrative fees for a service you implicitly or explicitly used can be challenging.

Do all rental cars come with a toll transponder?

Not necessarily. Many rental companies integrate toll payment through license plate recognition, so a physical transponder might not be visible in the car. It’s the system they use that matters. Always confirm their specific policy.

Conclusion

Navigating the Illinois Tollway in a rental car doesn’t have to be a source of anxiety. By understanding the electronic toll collection system, familiarizing yourself with your rental car company’s specific policies, and choosing the payment method that best suits your needs and travel style, you can ensure a smooth and cost-effective journey. Whether you opt for the convenience of the rental company’s program, the economy of your personal transponder, or the proactive approach of online “Pay By Plate,” being informed is key to successfully handling how to pay tolls in Illinois with a rental car. Always prioritize checking your rental agreement and communicating with the rental company to avoid unexpected fees and enjoy your trip through the Prairie State.

Last Updated on October 11, 2025 by Cristian Steven

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