The Goethals Bridge, a vital link between Elizabeth, New Jersey, and Staten Island, New York, serves tens of thousands of commuters daily. Operated by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ), this cable-stayed structure utilizes a sophisticated, entirely cashless tolling system. As of the latest adjustments effective January 4, 2026, toll rates have been updated to reflect the ongoing capital investment needs and operational costs of the region's infrastructure.

Drivers should be aware that tolls are strictly collected for eastbound traffic only. This means vehicles traveling from New Jersey into New York across the Arthur Kill will incur a charge, while those traveling westbound from Staten Island into New Jersey do not pay a toll. Because the bridge is cashless, there are no physical toll booths to stop at; overhead sensors and cameras capture information while vehicles maintain highway speeds.

Direct Breakdown of Passenger Vehicle Toll Rates

For the majority of travelers operating standard two-axle passenger vehicles (Class 1), the cost of crossing the Goethals Bridge depends heavily on the method of payment and the time of day.

E-ZPass NY and NJ Account Holders

Using an E-ZPass issued by the New York or New Jersey Customer Service Centers remains the most economical way to cross. The rates for these account holders in 2026 are:

  • Off-peak Hours: $14.79
  • Peak Hours: $16.79

The Mid-Tier Rate

A specific "Mid-Tier" rate was introduced to incentivize the proper use of technology. This rate applies to NY or NJ E-ZPass account holders whose transponders are not detected by the overhead gantry sensors—often due to improper mounting on the windshield. In such cases, the system must use license plate recognition to verify the account, incurring a higher administrative cost.

  • Mid-Tier Rate: $19.55

Tolls by Mail

For drivers without a valid E-ZPass or those using an out-of-state E-ZPass (non-NY/NJ), the "Tolls by Mail" rate applies. The system captures an image of the license plate, and an invoice is sent to the registered owner.

  • Tolls by Mail Rate: $23.30

Defining Peak and Off-Peak Hours

Timing your trip can lead to significant savings. The Port Authority utilizes congestion pricing to manage traffic flow across the Goethals Bridge.

Weekday Schedule

  • Peak Hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
  • Off-Peak Hours: All other times, including late nights and midday.

Weekend Schedule

  • Peak Hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.
  • Off-Peak Hours: All other times outside the 11 AM to 9 PM window.

Toll Rates for Motorcycles and Specialty Vehicles

Motorcycles and vehicles with trailers follow a different pricing structure. Like passenger cars, these rates are determined by payment type and timing.

Class 11: Motorcycles

Motorcycles receive a slight discount compared to standard passenger cars when using an E-ZPass.

  • E-ZPass Off-peak: $13.79
  • E-ZPass Peak: $15.79
  • Mid-Tier: $19.05
  • Tolls by Mail: $23.30

Class 7: Passenger Vehicles with Trailers

If a passenger vehicle is towing a trailer (minimum three single-wheel axles), the tolls increase significantly.

  • E-ZPass Off-peak: Starting at $28.59 (plus $13.80 per additional axle).
  • E-ZPass Peak: Starting at $30.59 (plus $13.80 per additional axle).
  • Tolls by Mail: Starting at $44.60 (plus $21.30 per additional axle).

Commercial Vehicle and Truck Tolls in 2026

Commercial transportation is the backbone of the region's logistics, and the Goethals Bridge is a primary artery for freight moving into New York City. Truck tolls are calculated based on the number of axles and the time of travel, with specific "Overnight" discounts available to encourage off-peak logistics.

Two-Axle Dual Rear Wheel Vehicles (Class 2)

  • E-ZPass Peak: $45.34
  • E-ZPass Off-peak: $43.34
  • Overnight (Sun-Thu 10 PM - 6 AM): $40.34
  • Tolls by Mail: $51.34

Five-Axle Heavy Trucks (Class 5)

Heavy freight vehicles face some of the highest tolls due to their impact on road wear and infrastructure.

  • E-ZPass Peak: $113.35
  • E-ZPass Off-peak: $108.35
  • Overnight (Sun-Thu 10 PM - 6 AM): $100.85
  • Tolls by Mail: $128.35

Six-Axle and Above (Class 6)

For the largest combinations:

  • E-ZPass Peak: $136.02 (plus $22.67 per additional axle).
  • E-ZPass Off-peak: $130.02 (plus $21.67 per additional axle).
  • Tolls by Mail: $154.02 (plus $25.67 per additional axle).

How the Cashless Tolling System Operates

The transition to all-electronic tolling (AET) was completed to reduce emissions and eliminate the traffic bottlenecks caused by stopping at traditional toll plazas. The Goethals Bridge utilizes overhead gantries equipped with two primary technologies.

RFID Transponder Detection

When a vehicle with an E-ZPass transponder passes under the gantry, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology reads the tag instantly. The system validates the account and deducts the appropriate peak or off-peak rate. For this to work efficiently, the tag must be mounted on the windshield, usually behind the rearview mirror. Hand-holding the tag or leaving it in a glove box often results in a "read failure," triggering the more expensive Mid-Tier rate.

License Plate Recognition (LPR)

If no E-ZPass is detected, high-speed cameras take photos of the front and rear license plates. These images are processed through optical character recognition (OCR) software to identify the vehicle's registration. For E-ZPass holders with misread tags, the LPR system attempts to match the plate to an existing account. For non-account holders, the LPR data is used to look up the owner's address through DMV records to send a Tolls by Mail invoice.

Discount Plans and Enrollment Requirements

Significant savings are available for frequent commuters and owners of specific vehicle types. However, these discounts are not automatic; they require enrollment through the E-ZPass New York Customer Service Center.

Staten Island Bridges Plan (PASI)

This plan is designed for frequent travelers across the Goethals Bridge, Outerbridge Crossing, and Bayonne Bridge.

  • Requirement: 3 or more trips per month across any of the three Staten Island bridges.
  • Discounted Rate: $6.88 per trip for 2-axle vehicles (Classes 1, 7, and 11).
  • Note: If fewer than 3 trips are taken in a month, the driver is charged the standard E-ZPass rate for those trips.

Green Discount Plan

To encourage the use of low-emission vehicles, the Port Authority offers reduced tolls for eligible electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.

  • Off-peak Green Rate: $11.29 (for Class 1 vehicles).
  • Peak Green Rate: $16.79 (the standard E-ZPass peak rate still applies).
  • Eligibility: Vehicles must be on the official list of eligible low-emission vehicles and have a "Green" E-ZPass tag.

Port Authority Carpool Plan (Discontinued)

It is important to note that the carpool discount plan was discontinued with the implementation of cashless tolling, as the automated systems currently cannot accurately count vehicle occupants at highway speeds.

Managing Your Account and Avoiding Scams

With the rise of digital tolling, there has been an increase in fraudulent activities targeting drivers in the New York and New Jersey area.

Guarding Against Smishing Scams

Drivers should be extremely cautious of text messages claiming they have unpaid Goethals Bridge tolls. The Port Authority and E-ZPass Customer Service Centers do not send text messages demanding immediate payment or threatening license suspension. Official communication regarding unpaid tolls is sent exclusively via physical mail to the address registered with the DMV.

Payment Methods for Tolls by Mail

If you receive a Tolls by Mail invoice, you can pay online using a credit/debit card, mail a check, or pay in person at select retail locations. Paying the invoice promptly is critical to avoid administrative fees, which can quickly exceed the original toll amount.

The Importance of DMV Accuracy

Because the cashless system relies on mailing addresses, drivers must ensure their vehicle registration address is current with the DMV. Failure to receive a toll bill because of an outdated address is generally not considered a valid excuse for late fees or penalties.

Why Are Tolls Increasing?

The 2026 toll rates are part of a multi-year adjustment plan authorized by the PANYNJ Board of Commissioners. Several factors contribute to these increases:

  1. Inflation Adjustments: Annual adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) ensure that revenue keeps pace with the rising costs of labor, materials, and electricity.
  2. Capital Improvements: The Port Authority is self-funded and receives no tax revenue from New York or New Jersey. Toll revenue funds the $1.5 billion replacement of the Goethals Bridge itself, along with improvements to the New Jersey Turnpike Exit 13 and the I-278 interchange.
  3. Security and Maintenance: Maintaining a cable-stayed bridge requires specialized inspections and high-tech security monitoring to ensure the safety of the interstate corridor.

Summary of Key Information for Travelers

Navigating the Goethals Bridge tolling system requires understanding the nuances of modern electronic infrastructure.

  • Tolling is Eastbound only from NJ to NY.
  • E-ZPass NY/NJ is the only way to access the lowest rates of $14.79 (off-peak) and $16.79 (peak).
  • Improper tag mounting leads to the $19.55 Mid-Tier rate.
  • Tolls by Mail is the most expensive option at $23.30.
  • The PASI plan offers the deepest discount at $6.88 for frequent commuters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What happens if I drive over the Goethals Bridge without an E-ZPass?

The overhead cameras will photograph your license plate, and a "Toll by Mail" invoice will be sent to the registered owner of the vehicle. You will be charged the highest rate ($23.30 for cars in 2026).

Is there a toll for driving from Staten Island to New Jersey?

No. Tolls are only collected for eastbound traffic (entering New York). Westbound travel is free of charge on the Goethals Bridge.

Why was I charged the Mid-Tier rate instead of the E-ZPass rate?

The Mid-Tier rate ($19.55) is applied when you have an active NY/NJ E-ZPass account, but the system had to use your license plate to identify you because your transponder was not read. This is usually due to the tag being hidden, incorrectly mounted, or having a dead battery.

Can I pay my Goethals Bridge toll with cash?

No. The Goethals Bridge is 100% cashless. There are no toll collectors or machines to accept cash.

How do I enroll in the Staten Island Bridges discount plan?

You must log into your E-ZPass New York account and add the "Staten Island Bridges Plan" (PASI) to your account. The discount is not automatically applied based on your home address; it requires active enrollment.

What are the peak hours for the Goethals Bridge?

On weekdays, peak hours are 6-10 AM and 4-8 PM. On weekends, peak hours are 11 AM to 9 PM. All other times are considered off-peak.

Are there discounts for electric vehicles?

Yes, eligible electric vehicles can enroll in the Green Discount Plan to receive a reduced off-peak rate of $11.29, provided they have the specific Green E-ZPass tag issued by New York.

Who should I contact if I receive a toll scam text?

Do not click any links in the text. You can report the scam to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or simply delete the message. Official toll information can always be verified by logging into the official E-ZPass NY or NJ websites directly.

Does my NJ E-ZPass work on the Goethals Bridge?

Yes, both NJ and NY E-ZPass accounts are eligible for the standard E-ZPass peak and off-peak rates. Out-of-state accounts (like those from Pennsylvania or Massachusetts) are typically charged the Tolls by Mail rate.

What is the height limit for the Goethals Bridge?

The Goethals Bridge has a vertical clearance of 140 feet above the water, but the roadway itself follows standard Interstate height regulations. Drivers of oversized loads must obtain specific permits from the Port Authority.