The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) manages a network of toll roads throughout the state. Navigating this system requires understanding the available payment methods. This guide explains how tolls are collected, the ways to pay, and the steps to take if you encounter an unpaid toll.
Oklahoma’s Toll Collection Systems
Oklahoma’s turnpikes have transitioned to a cashless tolling system to improve traffic flow and safety. This system uses two primary methods to identify vehicles and assess tolls without requiring drivers to stop. The first is an electronic transponder system where a device communicates with overhead readers, automatically deducting the toll from a prepaid account.
The second method is a video-based system for vehicles without a transponder, where cameras capture an image of the license plate and an invoice is mailed to the registered owner.
Paying Tolls with PikePass
A PikePass is an electronic transponder tag affixed to a vehicle’s windshield that is linked to a prepaid account. This system offers the lowest available toll rates and allows for travel on toll roads in neighboring states like Kansas and Texas. To open an account, you will need to provide your personal contact information, details for each vehicle including its make, model, year, and license plate number, and a payment method.
You can obtain a PikePass transponder online through the OTA’s official website or at certain retail partner locations. After receiving the transponder, you must activate it and establish a prepaid balance. Your account can be managed online to add funds, view your travel history, and update your vehicle and payment information.
Paying Tolls with PlatePay
For drivers without a PikePass, the PlatePay system facilitates toll payment. After traveling on a turnpike, an invoice is mailed to the registered owner. This invoice includes a picture of the license plate, the date, time, and location of the toll, the total amount due, and a payment deadline. The rates for PlatePay are higher than PikePass rates. You can pay an invoice online at the PlatePay website, by mailing a check or money order, or by calling the customer service number on the invoice.
Consequences of Unpaid Tolls
Failing to pay tolls, either through an unfunded PikePass account or by ignoring a PlatePay invoice, results in escalating consequences.1Justia. Oklahoma Statutes §47-11-1401 – Unlawful Acts – Signs – Violations The initial unpaid toll leads to a violation notice that includes the original toll amount plus administrative fees. If these notices are ignored, late fees will be added, increasing the total amount owed. The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority can work with Service Oklahoma to place a hold on your vehicle’s registration renewal until the balance is paid.2Justia. Oklahoma Statutes §47-11-1401.2 – Oklahoma Electronic Toll Collection Act For significant unpaid amounts, the debt may be turned over to a collections agency, which can negatively affect your credit score.
Resolving Toll Violations and Disputes
If you receive a violation notice, the most direct way to resolve it is to pay the outstanding tolls and any associated fees using the methods outlined in the notice. This can be done online or by mail. Acting promptly can prevent the accumulation of further late fees.
Should you believe a charge is incorrect, you can dispute it with the OTA. To do so, you will need to gather relevant documentation, such as proof that your PikePass account was in good standing, evidence you had sold the vehicle, or proof of an incorrect license plate read. You can initiate a dispute by calling the customer service center at 1-800-PIKEPASS (1-800-745-3727) or by following the dispute instructions on the PlatePay website.