Significant changes are set to take effect on the Pennsylvania Turnpike (PA Turnpike) this weekend, including adjustments to the toll structure and the introduction of Open Road Tolling on the eastern section of the highway.

Upcoming PA Turnpike Toll Changes
Starting January 5, 2025, toll rates on the PA Turnpike will increase by 5%, but with some notable differences this year.

The PA Turnpike Authority is revising toll rates to ensure uniform pricing per mile. They are also shifting from weight-based classifications to an Automatic Vehicle Classification (AVC) system, which determines tolls based on a vehicle’s axle count and height.

According to officials, around 70% of commercial vehicles will experience a toll increase of $5 or less.

“The standardization of rates and the move to AVC will not result in additional revenues for the Turnpike beyond the 5% increase approved for 2025. The change in vehicle classification will have a limited impact on non-commercial customers; most widely impacting commercial customers who primarily travel the PA Turnpike empty,” the PA Turnpike Authority said.

For more information on how much you’ll pay under the new toll structure, you can click here to access an online toll calculator.

Open Road Tolling Launches on Eastern PA Turnpike
Along with the toll rate adjustments, the Pennsylvania Turnpike will begin using Open Road Tolling (ORT) starting at 12:01 a.m. on January 5. This system will be introduced east of Reading and on the Northeast Extension.

According to the PA Turnpike Authority, “in an ORT system, tolls are charged electronically as customers drive at highway speeds without slowing down or stopping beneath overhead structures — called gantries — located between interchanges. Equipment on the gantry and in the roadway processes E-ZPass or Toll By Plate transactions. ORT eliminates the confusion and lane switching associated with traditional, stop-and-go tolling. Removal of toll booths eliminates obstacles, increases sight lines for customers and ultimately reduces stress and distractions when entering and exiting the system.”

Officials say that toll gantry construction in the western section is currently underway ahead of the January 2027 western launch.  

“The launch of Open Road Tolling is perhaps the most significant change since the Pennsylvania Turnpike opened in 1940 as ‘America’s First Superhighway’ and continues our legacy as a national leader in transportation,” said Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Secretary and PA Turnpike Commission Chair Mike Carroll. “The future is now as we bring a safer and more efficient way for motorists to commute, safely transport freight and explore “The Great American Getaway” that is our Commonwealth.”