Texas toll roads span Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and beyond—TxTag saves ~50% vs. Pay-by-Mail (ZipCash), with full interoperability across agencies.
Official references:
- TxTag.org (statewide): https://www.txtag.org
- HCTRA (Houston): https://www.hctra.org
Texas Toll Systems Overview
Texas has multiple agencies but unified electronic payment—TxTag works everywhere, no matter the operator.
| System | Operator | Coverage | Tag Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| TxTag | HCTRA (since Nov 2024) | Statewide + OK/KS | TxTag sticker/portable |
| TollTag | NTTA | Dallas-Fort Worth | TollTag |
| EZ TAG | HCTRA | Houston | EZ TAG |
| Pay-by-Mail (ZipCash/Invoice) | All | Statewide backup | None—plate billing |
Electronic tags: Lowest rates (~$0.22/mile NTTA post-2025 hike). Pay-by-Mail: Double + fees.
TxTag: Best for Statewide Travel
TxTag (HCTRA-managed since Nov 2024) works on all Texas tolls plus OK (PikePass), KS (K‑TAG).
Setup and payment
- txtag.org → Create account ($20 min. preload).
- Order sticker ($0–$5) or portable ($20+).
- Auto‑replenish (card/bank) prevents low‑balance fees.
- Tolls deduct instantly; check app/online.
Perks
- 25–50% less than Pay-by-Mail.
- HOV/motorcycle discounts on TEXpress lanes via GoCarma app.
- No monthly fees if active.
Out-of-state? TollTag/EZ TAG accepted everywhere too.
Pay-by-Mail (ZipCash/Invoice): No Tag Needed
No tag? Cameras capture plate; invoice mails to owner (~30–75 days delay possible during transitions).
Payment methods by agency
- Online: Agency site (e.g., hctra.org, ntta.org, mobilityauthority.com) → Plate lookup.
- Phone: HCTRA 281‑875‑EASY; NTTA 972‑818‑NTTA.
- Mail: Check to agency PO Box (e.g., HCTRA PO Box 3661, Houston, TX 77253).
- In person: TxTag CSC (12719 Featherlake Dr, Houston); NTTA stores.
Costs: Double tag rates + $1–$10 fees; late fees escalate to DMV holds. Pay within 14–30 days.
Regional Agency Payment Details
Texas tolls split by region—check your roads for the right site.
| Region | Agency | Pay Site | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston | HCTRA (EZ TAG) | hctra.org | 281‑875‑3279 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth | NTTA (TollTag) | ntta.org | 972‑818‑6882 |
| Austin | CTRMA/TxDOT (TxTag) | mobilityauthority.com | Varies |
| Statewide | TxDOT/TxTag | txtag.org | 1‑888‑468‑9824 |
Cash rare/phasing out; retail pay (e.g., Walmart for HCTRA) available some areas.
2026 Texas Toll Updates
Rates steady post-2025 hikes; focus on digital enforcement.
Key changes:
- NTTA TollTag: $0.22/mile (up from $0.21 July 2025).
- HCTRA took TxTag ops Nov 2024—seamless transition.
- TEXpress dynamic pricing + HOV discounts via GoCarma app.
- Anti‑fraud upgrades after phishing spikes.
Use TollGuru calculator for routes.
Tips to Save and Avoid Fees
Tags beat invoices every time—don’t skip them.
- Get TxTag for statewide coverage.
- Enable auto‑replenish; monitor via app.
- Rentals: Company often bills you + markup—use your tag.
- Multiple invoices? Possible in Austin (HCTRA + Mobility Authority)—pay both.
Scams: Fake texts demand immediate pay; log in officially to verify.
FAQs About TX Toll Pay
1. What’s the cheapest way to pay Texas tolls?
Electronic tag (TxTag/TollTag/EZ TAG)—~50% less than Pay-by-Mail (e.g., Dallas-Houston $25 tag vs. $50+ ZipCash).
2. Does TxTag work on all Texas toll roads?
Yes—statewide interoperability with TollTag, EZ TAG, K‑TAG, PikePass, SunPass.
3. How do I pay if I don’t have a tag?
Plate invoice (ZipCash) mails; pay online/phone/mail/in person within 14–30 days or face fees/DMV block.
4. Can I pay Texas tolls with cash?
Limited—some booths phasing out; use retail/service centers instead. Tags/Pay-by-Mail preferred.
5. What agencies send Texas toll bills?
HCTRA (Houston), NTTA (DFW), CTRMA/TxDOT (Austin), etc.—may get multiple for one trip.
6. How long until I get a Pay-by-Mail invoice?
30–75 days; pay proactively online with plate to avoid delays/fees.
7. Are there HOV discounts on Texas tolls?
Yes—on TEXpress lanes; register tag with GoCarma app for driver +1/motorcycle savings.
