Driving through Los Angeles in 2025–2026 involves more than just fuel and parking — toll costs are an important part of budgeting for road travel. While most Los Angeles freeways remain toll-free, several express lanes and managed toll roads across the region charge fees based on distance, traffic, and time of day. The average toll in Los Angeles ranges between $0.25 and $0.75 per mile, depending on congestion levels. Most toll roads accept FasTrak electronic payments only, with dynamic pricing applied on express lanes like the I-10 and I-110 corridors during peak hours.
Toll costs in Los Angeles range from $0.25–$0.75 per mile in 2025–2026. Learn about FasTrak passes, I-10 and I-110 express lane prices, and area-wise toll charges in LA.
How Do Tolls Work in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Los Angeles tolls are managed by the Metro ExpressLanes and Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA), which operate electronic tolling systems that automatically charge registered vehicles. Drivers must use a FasTrak transponder to access these express lanes without receiving penalties.
• Payment method: FasTrak account linked to a prepaid balance; sensors deduct tolls automatically.
• Dynamic pricing: Adjusts every 5 minutes based on traffic — higher tolls during rush hours.
• Average toll rates: $0.25–$0.75 per mile; full trip costs can reach $6–$12 during peak hours.
• License plate tolling: For unregistered drivers, toll-by-plate invoices are sent by mail with extra service fees.
• Violation fee: $25–$100 per missed toll if not paid within 30 days.
I-10 ExpressLanes (El Monte Busway) Tolls [2025–2026]
The I-10 ExpressLanes run between Downtown LA and Baldwin Park, serving thousands of commuters daily. Tolls vary based on traffic flow and distance traveled.
• Route coverage: Alameda Street (Downtown) to Baldwin Park.
• Base rate: Around $0.30 per mile off-peak, up to $0.75 during rush hours.
• Peak travel cost: $6–$10 total one-way during weekday mornings and evenings.
• Carpool discounts: 2-person carpools pay 50% less; 3+ riders travel free during off-peak.
• Operating hours: 24/7, with dynamic pricing 5 AM–9 PM weekdays.
• Payment: FasTrak transponder or FasTrak Flex (for carpool verification).
I-110 ExpressLanes (Harbor Freeway) Tolls [2025–2026]
The I-110 ExpressLanes stretch from Downtown LA to Gardena, a busy commuter route connecting major South Bay neighborhoods.
• Route coverage: Adams Boulevard to SR-91 (Gardena).
• Toll rate: $0.25–$0.70 per mile depending on congestion.
• Typical trip cost: $5–$9 during peak hours; $2–$4 off-peak.
• Carpool rules: Solo drivers pay full toll; carpools of 3+ people may ride free.
• Travel time: 20–30 minutes faster than general lanes during rush hours.
• HOV verification: Must switch FasTrak Flex to “3+” mode for toll exemption.
SR-73 Toll Road (Orange County–LA Access) [2025–2026]
The SR-73 Toll Road connects southern Los Angeles County to Orange County, offering a faster alternative between Costa Mesa, Irvine, and Torrance.
• Distance: 17 miles; full toll around $8–$10 during peak hours.
• Base rate: $2.50–$3.00 for short trips.
• Toll range: $0.35–$0.65 per mile.
• Payment method: FasTrak only (no cash tolls).
• Traffic savings: Reduces drive time by 15–25 minutes compared to I-405.
• Violation fees: $57.50 per unpaid trip if no active account.
SR-91 Express Lanes (Riverside to LA) [2025–2026]
The SR-91 Express Lanes serve drivers traveling between Riverside County and Los Angeles County, known for its distance-based variable pricing.
• Route coverage: SR-91 from SR-71 (Corona) to SR-55 (Anaheim).
• Toll range: $3–$12 per trip depending on distance and time of day.
• Peak travel: 6–9 AM westbound, 3–7 PM eastbound.
• Average rate per mile: $0.45–$0.70.
• Carpool incentives: 3+ occupants travel at reduced or no cost during off-peak.
• Weekend rates: Around $3–$5, with lighter traffic.
Area-Wise Toll Cost Comparison in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Toll rates differ slightly across boroughs depending on the expressway or corridor used.
• Downtown LA to Pasadena (I-10): $5–$7 during peak; $3–$4 off-peak.
• Downtown LA to Long Beach (I-110): $6–$9 during rush hour.
• South Bay to Downtown LA: $5–$8 using I-110 ExpressLanes.
• Santa Monica to Irvine (via SR-73): $9–$11; fastest during weekday afternoons.
• Riverside to LA (via SR-91): $10–$12 depending on congestion.
• Culver City to Baldwin Park: $6–$7 through I-10 ExpressLanes.
FasTrak Pass and Payment Options [2025–2026]
FasTrak remains the universal toll collection system across California. It enables automatic toll deduction through an electronic transponder.
• Initial setup: $25 prepaid balance required to open an account.
• Monthly maintenance: None if the account remains active.
• Transponder type: Regular FasTrak or FasTrak Flex (for HOV lanes).
• Reload options: Credit/debit auto-reload or one-time top-ups via the FasTrak website.
• Customer support: Managed by Metro ExpressLanes and TCA for LA County.
• Tip: Set the transponder correctly — “1” for solo, “2” or “3+” for carpool to avoid fines.
Penalties and Toll Violations in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Failure to pay tolls on time results in fines and account penalties. California’s toll enforcement system automatically tracks license plates for unpaid trips.
• First violation notice: $25 service charge per toll.
• Second violation: $57.50 fine plus toll amount.
• Late payment penalty: Up to $100 if unpaid after 60 days.
• Registration hold: DMV may place a hold on vehicle registration for unpaid tolls.
• Avoid penalties: Always maintain a valid FasTrak balance or pay invoice online within 5 days.
How to Save on Toll Costs in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Regular drivers can minimize toll expenses using strategic travel planning and FasTrak account benefits.
• Carpool with 3+ riders to qualify for free or discounted tolls during off-peak hours.
• Travel during non-peak times to reduce per-mile pricing by up to 50%.
• Use the Metro ExpressLanes app to track live toll rates before entering.
• Set up auto-reload to avoid missed tolls and penalty charges.
• Combine express lane use with public transit parking for hybrid commute savings.
• Use weekend passes on routes like SR-91 to enjoy flat-rate pricing.
Summary of Toll Costs in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
| Toll Road / Express Lane | Average Rate | Typical Cost | Payment | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I-10 ExpressLanes | $0.30–$0.75 per mile | $6–$10 | FasTrak | Downtown to Baldwin Park |
| I-110 ExpressLanes | $0.25–$0.70 per mile | $5–$9 | FasTrak | Downtown to Gardena |
| SR-73 Toll Road | $0.35–$0.65 per mile | $8–$10 | FasTrak | LA to Orange County |
| SR-91 Express Lanes | $0.45–$0.70 per mile | $3–$12 | FasTrak | Riverside to Anaheim |
| Minimum Violation | — | $25–$100 | — | Late payment penalties |
| FasTrak Setup | — | $25 prepaid | — | Reusable for all CA tolls |
FAQ: Tolls Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Q1. How much do tolls cost per mile in Los Angeles?
Tolls average between $0.25 and $0.75 per mile, depending on congestion and route.
Q2. Do all freeways in LA charge tolls?
No, only select express lanes and toll roads like I-10, I-110, SR-73, and SR-91 have tolls.
Q3. How do I pay tolls in Los Angeles?
You must use a FasTrak transponder or pay by plate through mailed invoices.
Q4. Are carpool vehicles charged tolls?
Carpools with 3 or more passengers often ride free or at reduced rates during off-peak times.
Q5. What happens if I don’t pay a toll?
Unpaid tolls result in fines ranging from $25 to $100 and possible DMV registration holds.
Q6. Can tourists use toll roads without FasTrak?
Yes, but they’ll receive a “toll-by-plate” bill by mail, which includes additional service fees.
Q7. How can I save on toll expenses?
Travel off-peak, use carpool lanes, or sign up for auto-reload FasTrak to earn toll discounts.