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New York State Thruway Authority
Traveler Information
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Image showing examples of heightsHow do I know how high my vehicle is?

Measurement is taken at the highest point of the vehicle over the first two axles. Typical home garages feature 7 feet high doors. If your vehicle fits in a standard garage, then it is probably under 7 feet 6 inches. If you are unable to measure the height of the vehicle, check your owner's manual or manufacturer documentation.

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How do I determine the number of axles on my vehicle?

An axle is a shaft around which a wheel or a pair of wheels revolve. Most passenger cars are considered to have 2 axles for classification purposes. To determine the number of axles on the vehicle or vehicle combination, look at the vehicle from the side profile and count the number wheels or pair of wheels from front to back.

5 axle truck

5 axles

 

2 axle car

2 axles

 

3 axles total, 2 on car, 1 in tow

3 axles

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I am a commuter. What discount plans are available?

The Thruway's $80 annual permit discount plan is available and has not increased in price. New commuter discount plans for each of the New York and Buffalo fixed toll barriers and bridges (New Rochelle, Yonkers, Tappan Zee Bridge, Harriman, and both Grand Island Bridges) are also available. To enroll in one of these commuter plans, current E-ZPass customers must call 1-800-333-8655 or visit one of the Authority's eight E-ZPass Service Centers. Customers enrolling in E-ZPass for the first time may choose a commuter plan during the E-ZPass application process.

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Do E-ZPass customers get a discount?

Yes. Both passenger and commercial vehicles receive a discount off the cash rate.

E-ZPass information and applications can be obtained by calling 1-800-333-TOLL (1-800-333-8655). Applications are also available online at www.e-zpassny.com.

More E-ZPass information is available on the E-ZPass page.

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I carry items, such as a kayak, on my roof rack. That makes my vehicle height over 7' 6". Will this affect my vehicle classification?

No. Non-permanent items (examples: kayak, bicycles, ladder, snow board, luggage carrier) carried on a passenger vehicle's roof (Class 2L, 3L, or 4L) are not considered when determining vehicle classification.

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I am carrying an item, such as a refrigerator, in the back of my 4X4 pick-up truck; does this make my vehicle high?

No. Non-permanent items carried in the bed of a pick-up truck (Class 2L, 3L, or 4L) are not considered when determining vehicle classification.

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How do I find out more about discounts for motorcycles and/or motor homes?

Discounts are available through the E-ZPass program. Proof of vehicle registration is required for both plans. Motorcycles are charged half of the cash toll rate. Motor homes receive the passenger vehicle rate based on the number of axles on the motor home. To enroll in the motorcycle or motor home discount plan, call 1-800-333-8655 or visit one of the Authority's eight E-ZPass Service Centers.

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I have dual rear wheels on my pickup truck. Does this affect my vehicle classification?

No. Dual rear wheels will no longer be a determining factor for vehicle classification. Classification will be based on height and axles regardless of the number of tires on each axle.

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I have a 15 passenger commercial van. Will I pay a higher rate?

The number of passengers is no longer a determining factor for vehicle classification. Classification is based on height and axles, regardless of the passenger capacity.

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Why was the classification system changed on May 15, 2005?

The system was simplified from 43 classifications to nine, based on height and number of axles, to better serve our customers, maintain equity among vehicles of various sizes, make the Thruway more compatible with other toll roads and to prepare the Thruway for Automated Vehicle Classification (AVC) use at highway speeds.

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How can I obtain a Vehicle Classification and Toll Schedule Chart?

Vehicle Classification and Toll Schedule Charts are available online or call the Thruway Authority's Office of Public Affairs at (518) 436-2983.

For more information, please e-mail Public Affairs or call (518) 436-2983 Monday through Friday, 8:30 am- 5:30 pm.

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What is the special discount for non-tandem 48’ commercial vehicles?

Non-tandem 48’ commercial vehicles are eligible for an additional E-ZPass discount that. To enroll, call 1-800-333-8655 or visit one of the Authority's eight E-ZPass Service Centers.

E-ZPass information and applications can be obtained by calling 1-800-333-TOLL (1-800-333-8655). Applications are also available online at www.e-zpassny.com.

More E-ZPass information is available on the E-ZPass page.

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I drive a conversion van. What is my toll classification?

Conversion vans are classified as a passenger vehicle (Class 2L).

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I tow a fifth wheel mounted camper/travel-trailer. What is my toll classification?

Vehicles towing a trailer with a 5th wheel hitch over 7' 6" are now entitled to a discounted rate on Thruway tolls. Customers who tow these types of trailers, campers or boats (fifth-wheels or gooseneck) are eligible to receive a special tag which also allows them to use a dedicated E-ZPass lane. The tags will be programmed specifically for the tow vehicle and trailer combination. To be eligible for the tag and discounted rates, customers must first have established an E-ZPass account with the New York E-ZPass Customer Service Center; the discounted rates will not be available to cash customers.

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I tow a fifth wheel mounted horse trailer. What is my toll classification?

Vehicles towing a horse trailer over 7' 6" are now entitled to a discounted rate on Thruway tolls. Customers who tow horse trailers are eligible to receive a special tag which also allows them to use a dedicated E-ZPass lane. The tags will be programmed specifically for the tow vehicle and trailer combination. To be eligible for the tag and discounted rates, customers must first have established an E-ZPass account with the New York E-ZPass Customer Service Center; the discounted rates will not be available to cash customers.

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