A New Hampshire E-ZPass rental car trip starts with one simple step. You pick up the keys at the airport or local office. Then you drive north toward the White Mountains, the Seacoast, or Lake Winnipesaukee. The road looks open. The sky looks clear. But within minutes, you pass your first overhead metal gantry. It has no booth. No arm. No attendant. Just a camera and a silent sensor strip. This is how New Hampshire collects tolls today. Every driver with a rental car must pay. The question is how. The answer affects your final bill.
New Hampshire runs a cashless toll system on all major turnpikes. Drivers cannot stop and pay cash. They must use either an E-ZPass transponder or a license plate photo. The second option triggers a “Pay-by-Plate” invoice. For rental car drivers, this invoice goes to the rental company first. Then the company forwards the bill to you. They add a service fee. That fee often ranges from $5 to $25 per toll. The total cost can surprise even experienced travelers.
How the New Hampshire Toll System Works
New Hampshire uses an all-electronic toll system on every turnpike. No cash option exists. No coin baskets exist. No staffed booths exist. The system reads either a transponder or a license plate. The state installed the first gantries in the 1990s. The last cash booths closed in the early 2010s. Today, the entire network runs through overhead sensors mounted on metal frames above the road.
When a car passes under a gantry, two things can happen. If a valid EZPass or FAST PASS transponder sits on the windshield, the system reads the radio signal. The toll comes out of the pre-paid account at the discounted rate. If no transponder exists, the system takes a photo of the front license plate. The system matches the plate to a registered vehicle. The system mails an invoice to the vehicle’s owner. The owner must pay the toll plus a higher “Pay-by-Plate” rate. Most Pay-by-Plate tolls cost about 50% more than E-ZPass rates.
For rental cars, the registered owner is the rental company. The company receives the invoice. The company pays the state. The company then charges the renter. The company adds its own service fee on top. This setup creates two profit layers for the rental brand. The renter pays the toll. The renter also pays the company’s convenience fee. The total cost often makes rental car tolls the most expensive part of a New Hampshire trip.
Two Ways to Pay Tolls in New Hampshire
- E-ZPass Transponder: A small device mounted on the windshield sends a radio signal to the gantry. The toll deducts from a pre-paid account at the lowest rate.
- Pay-by-Plate Video Tolling: A camera takes a photo of the license plate. The registered owner receives an invoice in the mail. The rate is higher than the EZ Pass rate.
New Hampshire Toll Roads List and Gantry Locations
New Hampshire has three main toll roads. Each road has multiple gantries. Each gantry has its own rate. Rental car drivers passing through the state may hit one gantry or several. The choice depends on the route. The following list covers the full toll road network in New Hampshire as of 2026.
Spaulding Turnpike (Route 16)
The Spaulding Turnpike runs through the eastern part of the state. It connects Rochester to Dover and Portsmouth. Drivers use this road to reach the Seacoast. The road has two toll gantries. Southbound traffic pays at one location. Northbound traffic pays at another. The E-ZPass rate for a two-axle vehicle stands at $0.75 per gantry. The Pay-by-Plate rate stands at $1.50 per gantry. Drivers using a rental car for a one-way trip from the Seacoast to the Lakes Region will pass one gantry. Round trip passes two.
Everett Turnpike (Route 3 and I-293)
The Everett Turnpike connects the Massachusetts border to the city of Concord. It also loops around Manchester. The road serves as the main highway for drivers heading from points south to the capital. The turnpike has multiple gantries. The Hooksett tolls on I-93 fall under this same system. The E-ZPass rate for a two-axle vehicle stands at $0.75 to $1.00 per gantry. The Pay-by-Plate rate stands at $1.50 to $2.00 per gantry. A full trip from the Mass border to Concord can pass three or more gantries. The total adds up fast for a rental car driver without a transponder.
Blue Star Turnpike (I-95)
The Blue Star Turnpike covers the short stretch of I-95 in New Hampshire. It runs from the Massachusetts line to the Maine state line near Portsmouth. The road has one main toll plaza area. The Hampton toll plaza contains two overhead gantries. Both gantries charge in the same direction. Drivers heading north pay one toll. Drivers heading south pay another. The E-ZPass rate for a two-axle vehicle stands at $2.00 per gantry. The Pay-by-Plate rate stands at $3.00 per gantry. The Hampton toll plaza rates rank as the highest single toll in the state. Rental car drivers crossing into Maine often hit this point without warning.
Central Turnpike (Route 101)
The Central Turnpike runs from Manchester to the Seacoast. It passes through Exeter and Hampton. The road has one toll gantry near Exeter. The E-ZPass rate stands at $0.75. The Pay-by-Plate rate stands at $1.50. Drivers using this route to avoid I-95 still pay one toll. Rental car drivers should plan accordingly.
Whitefield Toll Plaza (Route 3)
The Whitefield Toll Plaza sits in the northern part of the state. The road connects the White Mountains to Canada. The EZPass rate stands at $0.75. The Pay-by-Plate rate stands at $1.50. Few rental cars travel this far north. Locals use it more often. Skiers and leaf-peepers may pass through it in fall and winter.
Current New Hampshire Toll Rates for Two-Axle Vehicles (2026)
| Toll Location | Road | EZ Pass Rate | Pay-by-Plate Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hampton Toll Plaza (NB) | I-95 (Blue Star) | $2.00 | $3.00 |
| Hampton Toll Plaza (SB) | I-95 (Blue Star) | $2.00 | $3.00 |
| Hooksett Tolls (NB) | I-93 (Everett) | $1.00 | $2.00 |
| Hooksett Tolls (SB) | I-93 (Everett) | $1.00 | $2.00 |
| Spaulding Turnpike (NB) | Route 16 | $0.75 | $1.50 |
| Spaulding Turnpike (SB) | Route 16 | $0.75 | $1.50 |
| Central Turnpike | Route 101 | $0.75 | $1.50 |
| Whitefield Plaza | Route 3 | $0.75 | $1.50 |
Three Payment Options for New Hampshire E-ZPass Rental Car Drivers
Rental car drivers in New Hampshire face three choices. Each choice handles tolls differently. Each choice has a different price. The right choice depends on your trip length, your home state, and your budget. The three options are listed below.
Option 1: Rental Company’s Pre-Paid Toll Program
Most major rental companies offer a toll service. The service covers all tolls the driver incurs during the rental period. The driver pays a daily fee. The fee applies every day of the rental. The fee applies even on days with no tolls. The fee ranges from $3.95 to $14.95 per day. The rental company charges the tolls separately at the Pay-by-Plate rate. The result: the driver pays the daily fee plus the higher toll rate. This option is the most expensive for most trips. It only makes sense for short trips with many tolls.
The biggest rental companies brand these programs under different names. Hertz uses PlatePass. Avis and Budget use e-Toll. Enterprise and National use TollPass. Sixt uses e-Toll. Dollar and Thrifty use PlatePass. Each program works the same way. The rental car has a transponder. The transponder links to the rental company’s toll account. The system reads the transponder at every gantry. The system charges the rental company. The rental company charges the driver. The driver sees the daily fee plus the toll costs on the final credit card statement.
Option 2: Your Own Personal E-ZPass Transponder
This option works for any driver with an active E-ZPass account from any state. E-ZPass is interoperable. A transponder from Massachusetts works in New Hampshire, New York, Maine, and 18 other states. The driver places the transponder on the rental car windshield. The gantry reads the signal. The toll deducts from the driver’s home account at the lowest EZ-Pass rate. The driver pays no daily fee. The driver pays no service fee. The driver pays no surcharge. This option is the cheapest for nearly every trip.
New Hampshire is part of the EZPass network. It works with all E-ZPass groups. This includes the EZ Pass Group (IAG) for the Northeast and Midwest. It includes the SunPass in Florida. It includes the TxTag in Texas. It includes the FasTrak in California. Drivers from any participating state can use their transponder on New Hampshire roads. The same rule applies to FAST PASS transponders from the Maine Turnpike. FAST PASS works at the same rate as EZPass in New Hampshire.
Option 3: Pay-As-You-Go Invoice Method
This option requires no action at the rental counter. The driver does nothing. The driver hits a toll gantry. The system takes a photo of the license plate. The system sends the invoice to the rental company. The rental company pays the toll. The rental company adds a service fee. The rental company charges the driver’s credit card. The fee per toll ranges from $5 to $25. The driver pays the Pay-by-Plate rate plus the service fee. This option is the most expensive for trips with multiple tolls. It can work for a single-toll trip. The total cost may still exceed the rental company’s daily program fee.
The biggest risk with this option is the surprise bill. The invoice often arrives weeks after the trip. The driver may not remember the route. The driver may not recognize the charge. The driver may pay it without question. The driver may dispute it. The dispute process takes time. The rental company often wins the dispute. The charge stays on the credit card. The driver learns a costly lesson about the rental car toll policy.
New Hampshire E-ZPass Rental Car Cost Comparison
The cost of a New Hampshire toll trip depends on the payment option. The chart below shows a real example. A driver travels from Boston to the White Mountains. The route passes through two gantries on the Everett Turnpike. The driver returns two days later. The trip passes through two more gantries. The total toll count is four. The driver keeps the rental car for three days. The table compares the three payment options.
Sample Trip Cost: Boston to White Mountains (3-Day Rental, 4 Tolls)
| Payment Option | Toll Costs | Daily Fee | Service Fee | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Personal EZ-Pass (MA) | $4.00 (4 × $1.00) | $0.00 | $0.00 | $4.00 |
| Rental Company Program (PlatePass) | $8.00 (4 × $2.00 Pay-by-Plate) | $32.85 (3 × $10.95) | $0.00 | $40.85 |
| Pay-As-You-Go Invoice | $8.00 (4 × $2.00 Pay-by-Plate) | $0.00 | $40.00 (4 × $10.00) | $48.00 |
The savings from using your own E-ZPass are clear. The driver pays $4.00 with the personal transponder. The driver pays $40.85 with the rental program. The driver pays $48.00 with the invoice method. The personal transponder saves $36.85 to $44.00 on a single three-day trip. The savings grow on longer trips.
Enterprise E-ZPass Rental Policy and TollPass Program
Enterprise Rent-A-Car uses a toll service called TollPass. The service covers all tolls on the rental car. The service applies to drivers in 43 states. The driver pays a daily fee of $5.95 to $9.95 per day. The fee depends on the rental location. The fee applies every day of the rental. The fee applies even if the driver hits no tolls.
Enterprise also charges the tolls at the Pay-by-Plate rate. The tolls are non-discounted. The driver pays the higher rate. The driver also pays the daily fee. The driver does not pay a separate service fee. The TollPass program still costs more than a personal E-ZPass for most trips.
Drivers with a personal EZPass can opt out of TollPass at the counter. The driver must say clearly, “I will use my own EZ-Pass. Please do not enroll me in TollPass.” The agent must update the contract. The driver should also check the rental car for a built-in transponder. Enterprise uses a gray box on the windshield. The driver must open the box and close the internal switch to deactivate the transponder. The driver then mounts the personal transponder behind the rearview mirror. The driver should take a photo of the dashboard and the mounted transponder for proof.
Enterprise TollPass Daily Fee by State (2026)
| Rental State | Daily Fee | Covered Tolling States |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | $5.95 | All EZPass states |
| Massachusetts | $6.95 | All EZPass states |
| New York | $7.95 | All EZPass states |
| Connecticut | $5.95 | All E-ZPass states |
| Maine | $5.95 | All EZ-Pass states |
| Florida | $9.95 | SunPass and EZPass |
| Texas | $9.95 | TxTag and EZ-Pass |
| California | $9.95 | FasTrak and EZPass |
Hertz Toll Fees New Hampshire and PlatePass Program
Hertz uses a toll service called PlatePass. The service charges $4.95 to $10.95 per day. The fee covers all tolls. The fee applies every day of the rental. The fee applies even without tolls. Hertz also charges the tolls at the Pay-by-Plate rate. The driver pays the higher rate. The driver pays the daily fee. The driver pays no separate service fee.
Hertz offers a lower daily fee than some competitors. The lower fee makes the program more attractive for short trips. A one-day rental with one toll costs $4.95 in fees plus the Pay-by-Plate toll. The total cost is around $7.00. A driver with a personal EZPass would pay $0.75 or $1.00 for the same toll. The Hertz option still costs more. The savings gap narrows for short trips with multiple tolls.
Hertz drivers with a personal EZ Pass can opt out of PlatePass. The driver must notify the agent at the counter. The driver must decline the optional service. The Hertz contract will show the opt-out. The driver should also check the windshield for a built-in transponder. Hertz uses a small black or gray box. The driver must open the box and close the internal switch. The driver then mounts the personal transponder behind the rearview mirror. The driver should review the final receipt for unexpected PlatePass charges.
Avis Tolls New Hampshire and e-Toll Program
Avis uses a toll service called e-Toll. The service charges $3.95 to $14.95 per day. The fee depends on the rental state. The fee applies every day. The fee applies even without tolls. Avis also charges the tolls at the Pay-by-Plate rate. The driver pays the higher toll. The driver pays the daily fee. The driver pays no separate service fee.
Avis charges the highest daily fee among major rental companies. The $14.95 fee applies in some states. The fee makes the program the most expensive for most trips. A driver with a personal E-ZPass saves the most by opting out. Avis drivers can opt out at the counter. The driver must clearly decline the e-Toll service. The driver must check the rental car for a built-in transponder. The driver must open the box and close the internal switch. The driver must mount the personal transponder behind the rearview mirror.
Budget Rental Car Toll Policy and e-Toll Program
Budget uses the same e-Toll service as Avis. Both companies share the same parent. The same daily fees apply. The same Pay-by-Plate rates apply. The same opt-out rules apply. The same transponder deactivation steps apply. The only difference is the brand name on the rental contract.
Budget drivers in New Hampshire can opt out of e-Toll at the counter. The driver must decline the service. The driver must check the windshield for a built-in transponder. The driver must open the box and close the internal switch. The driver must mount the personal transponder. Budget drivers should also review the final receipt for unexpected e-Toll charges.
National Car Rental E-ZPass Policy and TollPass Program
National uses the same TollPass service as Enterprise. Both companies share the same parent. The same daily fees apply. The same Pay-by-Plate rates apply. The same opt-out rules apply. The same transponder deactivation steps apply. The driver follows the same steps as an Enterprise renter.
National drivers in New Hampshire can opt out of TollPass at the counter. The driver must decline the service. The driver must check the windshield for a built-in transponder. The driver must open the box and close the internal switch. The driver must mount the personal transponder. National drivers should also review the final receipt for unexpected TollPass charges.
Other Major Rental Companies in New Hampshire
Other rental brands also operate in New Hampshire. Each brand has its own toll program. Each brand has its own daily fee. Each brand has its own opt-out rules. The table below lists the major brands and their toll programs.
Major Rental Brand Toll Programs (2026)
| Brand | Toll Program | Daily Fee Range | Pay-by-Plate Surcharge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enterprise | TollPass | $5.95–$9.95 | Yes |
| National | TollPass | $5.95–$9.95 | Yes |
| Hertz | PlatePass | $4.95–$10.95 | Yes |
| Dollar | PlatePass | $4.95–$10.95 | Yes |
| Thrifty | PlatePass | $4.95–$10.95 | Yes |
| Avis | e-Toll | $3.95–$14.95 | Yes |
| Budget | e-Toll | $3.95–$14.95 | Yes |
| Sixt | e-Toll | $5.95–$12.95 | Yes |
| Alamo | TollPass | $5.95–$9.95 | Yes |
How to Use Your Own E-ZPass on a Rental Car
Using your own EZ Pass on a rental car saves money. The steps are simple. The process takes a few minutes. The savings last the entire trip. The steps below cover the full process.
Step 1: Check Your E-ZPass Account Before Travel
Log into your EZ Pass account online. Confirm the account is active. Confirm the credit card on file is current. Confirm the transponder is linked to the license plate you will use. Some states require the transponder to match the license plate. Update the plate number if needed. Call the EZ Pass customer service phone number if you need help. The phone number is on the back of your transponder or on your account statement.
Step 2: Bring Your Transponder in Your Carry-On
Pack your E-ZPass transponder in your carry-on bag. Do not check it in luggage. Lost luggage means no transponder. A damaged transponder may not read at the gantry. A missing transponder means the rental company program is your only option. Carry it in a small case to protect the battery and the adhesive strip.
Step 3: Decline the Rental Company’s Toll Program at the Counter
At the rental counter, the agent will offer the toll service. The agent may call it TollPass, PlatePass, e-Toll, or another brand name. Say clearly: “I will use my own EZPass. Please do not enroll me in the toll program.” The agent will update the contract. The contract will show the opt-out. Ask for a copy of the updated contract. Review the contract before you leave the counter.
Step 4: Check the Rental Car for a Built-In Transponder
Walk to the rental car. Sit in the driver’s seat. Look at the windshield near the rearview mirror. Look for a small gray or black box. The box is the rental company’s transponder. The box may be sticky-taped to the glass. Open the box. Find the internal switch. Close the switch to deactivate the transponder. The switch position depends on the box model. Most boxes have a clear “on” and “off” position. If the box has no switch, ask the counter agent. The agent may need to deactivate the transponder through the computer system.
Step 5: Mount Your Personal Transponder
Clean the windshield behind the rearview mirror. The area should be free of dust and oil. Peel the backing off your transponder. Mount the transponder behind the rearview mirror. The transponder should sit in the upper middle of the windshield. The transponder should not block the driver’s view. The transponder should not overlap the rental company’s box. The two devices should not touch.
Step 6: Take a Photo for Proof
Use your phone to take a photo of the mounted transponder. Take a photo of the rental car dashboard. Take a photo of the rental contract. Save the photos in a cloud folder. The photos serve as proof if the rental company disputes the charges later. The photos show the personal transponder was active. The photos show the rental’s transponder was inactive.
Step 7: Review the Final Receipt
After the trip, check your email for the final receipt. Review the receipt for any toll program charges. Review the credit card statement for any toll charges. If the rental company charged the toll program, call the customer service line. Reference the contract. Reference the photos. Ask for a refund. Most rental companies refund the charges if the driver opted out at the counter.
The Two Transponder Problem on Rental Cars
Rental cars often have a built-in transponder. The transponder links to the rental company’s toll service. The transponder must be deactivated. If the transponder stays active, the gantry reads both transponders. The gantry charges the rental company’s account. The gantry may also charge the personal EZ-Pass account. The driver ends up with two charges for one toll. The driver must dispute one charge. The dispute takes time. The dispute requires phone calls. The dispute creates stress.
The two transponder problem hits Hertz and Dollar drivers most often. Hertz attaches a portable transponder to the windshield. The transponder has a clear plastic cover. The cover hides the switch. The driver may not see the switch. The driver may not know to deactivate the transponder. Hertz charges the driver the toll anyway. The driver must dispute the charge by phone. Hertz refunds the charge after the dispute. The refund takes 2 to 4 weeks.
Avis and Budget drivers face the same problem. The built-in transponder sits in the same gray box. The switch sits inside the box. The driver must open the box. The driver must close the switch. The driver must mount the personal transponder in a separate spot. The driver should leave at least two inches between the two devices. The space prevents signal interference.
Pay-As-You-Go Invoice Method: The Costly Do-Nothing Approach
Some drivers choose to do nothing at the counter. The driver hits a toll gantry. The system takes a photo. The rental company receives the invoice. The rental company adds a service fee. The rental company charges the driver. The driver pays the toll plus the fee. The fee ranges from $5 to $25 per toll. The fee varies by rental company. The fee varies by state. The fee varies by payment method.
The biggest risk with this option is the surprise bill. The invoice often arrives weeks after the trip. The charges may show up on the credit card statement. The driver may not recognize the merchant name. The merchant name may read as the rental company’s toll division. The name may look like “HC*TollCharge” or “EnterpriseTollPass.” The driver may call the credit card company to dispute the charge. The dispute often fails. The charge stays on the credit card. The driver pays the toll plus the fee.
Typical Pay-As-You-Go Fees by Rental Company (2026)
| Rental Company | Admin Fee per Toll | Maximum Daily Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Enterprise | $3.95–$9.95 | $9.95 |
| National | $3.95–$9.95 | $9.95 |
| Hertz | $5.00–$9.95 | $9.95 |
| Avis | $5.00–$12.95 | $12.95 |
| Budget | $5.00–$12.95 | $12.95 |
| Sixt | $5.95–$9.95 | $9.95 |
Rental Car Convenience Fee on Tolls Explained
The convenience fee is the biggest hidden cost of rental car tolls. The fee covers the rental company’s cost of processing the toll. The fee covers the rental company’s cost of billing the driver. The fee covers the rental company’s cost of collecting the toll. The fee also covers the rental company’s profit margin. The fee can exceed the cost of the toll itself.
For example, a $1.00 EZ Pass toll on the Hooksett tolls costs $2.00 with Pay-by-Plate. The Pay-by-Plate toll plus a $9.95 admin fee from Enterprise totals $11.95. The original toll was $1.00. The driver paid almost 12 times the original toll. The convenience fee creates the largest gap between the EZPass rate and the rental car rate.
The fee structure also changes with the toll program. PlatePass charges a daily fee instead of a per-toll admin fee. The daily fee covers all tolls. The daily fee applies even without tolls. PlatePass also charges the Pay-by-Plate toll. The total cost per toll stays high. The structure just spreads the cost across the rental days.
E-ZPass Interoperability in New Hampshire
E-ZPass is interoperable across 19 states. New Hampshire is part of the network. The transponder from any member state works in New Hampshire. The transponder from any member state receives the E-ZPass rate. The following states and toll operators work with E-ZPass in New Hampshire.
E-ZPass Member States and Operators (2026)
- Maine (EZPass)
- New Hampshire (EZPass)
- Vermont (E-ZPass)
- Massachusetts (E-ZPass)
- Rhode Island (EZ-Pass)
- Connecticut (EZ Pass)
- New York (EZPass)
- New Jersey (EZ-Pass)
- Delaware (EZ-Pass)
- Maryland (E-ZPass)
- Pennsylvania (EZPass)
- West Virginia (EZPass)
- Ohio (E-ZPass)
- Indiana (E-ZPass)
- Illinois (EZPass)
- Kentucky (EZ-Pass)
- Virginia (EZPass)
- North Carolina (E-ZPass)
- Florida (SunPass)
- Georgia (Peach Pass)
- Texas (TxTag)
- Oklahoma (Pikepass)
- Kansas (K-Tag)
- California (FasTrak)
- Washington (Good To Go!)
- Minnesota (MnPass)
- Colorado (ExpressToll)
- Utah (Express Pass)
The list grows every year. New states join the network. The goal is one transponder for all US toll roads. The system works through the EZ Pass Group. The group manages the central clearing house. The clearing house settles balances between states. The driver does not see the settlement. The driver sees one charge on the home E-ZPass account. The charge matches the toll at the E-ZPass rate.
E-ZPass Flex NH and HOV Lane Access
New Hampshire does not have E-ZPass Flex. The Flex transponder is an EZ-Pass with a switch. The switch moves the transponder between standard mode and HOV mode. HOV mode lets the driver use high-occupancy vehicle lanes for free. The Flex transponder is used in states with HOV lanes. The transponder is used in states with express toll lanes. New Hampshire has no HOV lanes. New Hampshire has no express toll lanes. The Flex transponder is not needed.
Drivers visiting New Hampshire from states with EZ-Pass Flex can use the same transponder. The transponder works in standard mode. The driver does not need to use the switch. The HOV mode would not help anyway. The standard mode deducts the toll at the EZ Pass rate. The driver pays the same discounted toll. The driver receives the same receipt.
E-ZPass Customer Service Phone Number and Contact Details
Drivers can reach E-ZPass New Hampshire customer service by phone, email, or mail. The contact details are listed below. The contact details are current as of 2026. The phone line operates Monday through Friday. The phone line operates 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM Eastern Time. The phone line is closed on state holidays.
E-ZPass New Hampshire Contact Information
- Customer Service Phone Number: 1-877-NH-EZPASS (1-877-643-9727)
- Out-of-State Phone Number: 1-603-271-0131
- Email: customerservice@ezpassnh.com
- Mailing Address: E-ZPass Customer Service Center, P.O. Box 519, Concord, NH 03302
- Website: https://www.ez-passnh.com
- Hours of Operation: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–7:00 PM EST
- Walk-In Center: New Hampshire Department of Transportation, 7 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03302 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM)
The EZPass NH website handles account setup, balance checks, payment updates, and transponder replacements. The website offers a toll calculator. The calculator estimates the toll for any trip. The calculator compares the EZ Pass rate to the Pay-by-Plate rate. The driver can plan the trip cost before leaving home.
E-ZPass Account Setup for Visitors and Out-of-State Drivers
Out-of-state drivers can use their home EZPass in New Hampshire. No extra setup is required. The driver only needs an active account. The driver only needs a valid transponder. The driver only needs a payment method on file. The driver can drive through New Hampshire toll gantries. The toll deducts from the home account at the E-ZPass rate.
Visitors from non-E-ZPass states can apply for a New Hampshire EZPass account. The application requires a name, address, vehicle plate number, and credit card. The application is online. The application takes about 10 minutes. The transponder ships in 5 to 7 business days. The visitor can pick up the transponder at the Concord office if needed. The visitor can return the transponder after the trip. The visitor can receive a refundfor the remaining balance.
What Out-of-State E-ZPass Drivers Need to Know
- Your transponder works in New Hampshire at the E-ZPass rate.
- Your home E-ZPass account balance covers the toll.
- You pay no extra fee to use your transponder in New Hampshire.
- Your account statement shows the toll as a New Hampshire charge.
- You can dispute a charge by calling your home E-ZPass customer service.
E-ZPass NH Transponder Cost and Account Fees
New Hampshire E-ZPass accounts have a one-time setup fee. The setup fee covers the transponder. The fee also covers the account activation. The fee also covers shipping. The fee structure changed in 2026. The current fees are listed below.
New Hampshire E-ZPass Account Fees (2026)
| Item | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Transponder | $7.95 | One-time, non-refundable |
| Replacement Transponder | $15.95 | If lost or damaged |
| Monthly Account Fee | $0.00 | No monthly fee for standard accounts |
| Minimum Prepaid Balance | $30.00 | Initial deposit |
| Auto-Replenishment Threshold | $10.00 | Account refills when balance drops below $10 |
| Auto-Replenishment Amount | $30.00 | Default refill amount |
| Returned Transponder Refund | $0.00 | Deposit forfeited if account closed in 12 months |
The initial deposit covers future tolls. The deposit stays on the account. The deposit refunds when the driver closes the account. The deposit does not refund if the account closes within 12 months. The driver must keep the account open for at least 12 months to get the deposit back. The driver can close the account online. The driver must return the transponder by mail. The balance refunds to the credit card on file.
NH Toll by Mail: How Pay-by-Plate Works
New Hampshire uses Pay-by-Plate for drivers without E-ZPass. The system takes a photo of the license plate. The system matches the photo to the registered vehicle. The system mails an invoice to the registered owner. The invoice arrives within 14 days. The invoice shows the toll location, the toll amount, and the due date. The invoice includes a barcode for online payment. The invoice includes a mailing address for check payment.
The Pay-by-Plate rate is higher than the E-ZPass rate. The rate covers the cost of the photo system. The rate covers the cost of mailing the invoice. The rate covers the cost of processing the payment. The rate covers the cost of collections if the driver does not pay. The rate is about 50% higher than the E-ZPass rate for most gantries. The Hampton toll plaza rates show the largest gap. E-ZPass costs $2.00. Pay-by-Plate costs $3.00. The difference is $1.00 per toll.
Pay-by-Plate Invoice Payment Options
- Online at the E-ZPass NH website (credit card or bank account)
- By mail with check or money order
- By phone with a credit card (1-877-643-9727)
- In person at the Concord office (cash, check, or credit card)
The invoice has a 30-day due date. The invoice includes a late fee after the due date. The late fee is $1.00 per toll. The state sends a second notice after 30 days. The state sends a final notice after 60 days. The state may refer the unpaid toll to a collection agency. The unpaid toll may affect the vehicle registration. The state may place a hold on the registration renewal. The hold clears after the toll is paid.
Rental Car E-ZPass Violation and Avoiding Penalties
Drivers who fail to pay a toll in New Hampshire can receive a violation notice. The notice is a civil penalty. The notice is not a criminal charge. The notice arrives by mail. The notice includes the toll amount, the violation fee, and the due date. The violation fee for a first offense is $25.00. The violation fee for a second offense is $50.00. The violation fee for a third offense is $100.00.
Rental car drivers who skip the toll often receive the violation from the rental company. The rental company adds its own fee. The total cost is the toll plus the violation fee plus the rental company fee. The total can reach $75.00 for a single $1.00 toll. The driver can avoid the violation by paying the toll promptly. The driver can avoid the violation by signing up for the rental company’s toll program. The driver can avoid the violation by using a personal E-ZPass.
How to Handle a Rental Car Toll Violation
- Review the violation notice for accuracy. Check the date, time, and location.
- Contact the rental company to confirm the charge. The rental company may have already paid the toll.
- Contact E-ZPass NH customer service to pay the toll directly.
- Provide proof of payment to the rental company for a refund of the duplicate charge.
- Respond within 30 days to avoid the late fee.
How to Avoid Tolls on Rental Car Trips in New Hampshire
Some drivers prefer to avoid tolls altogether. The choice depends on the route. The choice depends on the time. The choice depends on the budget. The choice depends on the destination. New Hampshire has toll roads and toll-free roads. The toll-free roads take longer. The toll-free roads pass through more towns. The toll-free roads avoid every gantry. The driver saves the toll cost. The driver saves the rental company fee. The driver saves the violation risk.
Toll-Free Roads in New Hampshire
- Route 1: A coastal road from the Massachusetts line to the Maine line. The road passes through Seabrook, Hampton, Portsmouth, and others.
- Route 101: A short section is toll-free. The western section near Keene has no tolls.
- Route 28: A road from Salem to the Lakes Region. The road passes through Derry, Chester, and Raymond.
- Route 202: A road from the Massachusetts line to Concord. The road passes through Peterborough and Henniker.
- Route 9: A road from Concord to the Maine line. The road passes through the White Mountains.
- Route 10: A road from Hanover to the Connecticut River. The road passes through Orford and Haverhill.
Drivers heading to the White Mountains can avoid the Hooksett tolls on I-93. The driver exits I-93 at Exit 11. The driver takes Route 28 north. The driver rejoins I-93 at Exit 20. The detour adds 15 minutes. The detour saves the $1.00 toll. The detour works for both directions. The detour also works for rental car drivers who want to keep the E-ZPass account inactive.
NH Toll Authority Contact and Official Channels
The New Hampshire Department of Transportation manages the toll system. The Bureau of Turnpikes operates the gantries. The E-ZPass Customer Service Center handles accounts. The three groups act as separate channels. The driver may need to contact each group for different issues.
New Hampshire Toll Authority Contact Directory
- NH Department of Transportation (Main Office): 1-603-271-3734
- Bureau of Turnpikes (General Inquiries): 1-603-485-3806
- Bureau of Turnpikes (Mailing Address): P.O. Box 483, Concord, NH 03302
- E-ZPass Customer Service: 1-877-643-9727
- E-ZPass Customer Service (Out of State): 1-603-271-0131
- NH DOT Address (Walk-In): 7 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03302
- Website: https://www.ez-passnh.com
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–7:00 PM EST (Phone); 8:00 AM–4:30 PM EST (Walk-In)
The walk-in center at 7 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03302 handles account questions. The center handles transponder replacements. The center handles payment disputes. The center handles walk-in applications. The center does not handle rental car toll disputes. The driver must contact the rental company for those issues.
New Hampshire Turnpike System Overview
The New Hampshire Turnpike System covers 89 miles of highway. The system has 13 toll gantries. The system processes over 50 million transactions per year. The system generates over $130 million in annual revenue. The revenue funds highway maintenance. The revenue funds bridge repairs. The revenue funds snow removal. The revenue funds the state’s transportation budget.
The turnpike system started in 1950. The first toll road was the Everett Turnpike. The Everett Turnpike connected the Massachusetts border to Concord. The system grew over the decades. The system added the Spaulding Turnpike in the 1960s. The system added the Blue Star Turnpike in the 1970s. The system added the Central Turnpike in the 1980s. The system converted to cashless tolling in the 2010s. The system joined E-ZPass in 2005.
New Hampshire Turnpike System Quick Facts
- Total Mileage: 89 miles
- Number of Gantries: 13
- Annual Transactions: 50 million+
- Annual Revenue: $130 million+
- Smallest Toll: $0.75 (E-ZPass)
- Largest Toll: $2.00 (E-ZPass at Hampton)
- Toll Operator: Bureau of Turnpikes (NH DOT)
- E-ZPass Operator: New Hampshire E-ZPass Customer Service Center
Rental Car Toll Charge Reimbursement for Business Travelers
Business travelers may need to reimburse the toll cost. The driver must keep the invoice. The driver must submit the invoice for reimbursement. The driver may use a personal E-ZPass. The driver can deduct the toll from the home account. The driver can submit the E-ZPass statement for reimbursement. The statement shows the toll amount and the date. The statement satisfies most expense reports.
Business travelers who use the rental company’s toll program should note the daily fee. The daily fee may not qualify for reimbursement. The employer may cover the toll but not the convenience fee. The employee must review the company expense policy. The employee must decide whether to use the personal E-ZPass for the lowest cost. The employee should also check the tax rules. Some states tax the toll cost. Some states tax the convenience fee. The employee should consult a tax professional for the specific rules.
Steps for Business Travel Toll Reimbursement
- Save the E-ZPass statement or the rental company’s toll receipt.
- Note the toll date, location, and amount.
- Submit the toll records with the expense report.
- Include the route summary for verification.
- Keep copies for tax season.
NH Toll Calculator: Estimate Trip Costs Before Travel
The E-ZPass NH website offers a toll calculator. The calculator shows the cost of any trip. The driver enters the start and end points. The calculator lists the gantries along the route. The calculator shows the E-ZPass rate for each gantry. The calculator shows the Pay-by-Plate rate for each gantry. The calculator shows the total cost for both options. The driver can compare the totals. The driver can plan the trip with the cheapest option.
The NH toll calculator also works for out-of-state drivers. The driver can enter the license plate state. The calculator adjusts the rate. The calculator shows whether the state has an E-ZPass agreement. The calculator shows the cost for the driver’s home transponder. The calculator shows the cost for the Pay-by-Plate option.
Sample NH Toll Calculation: Concord to Manchester via I-93
- Hooksett Tolls (NB): $1.00 (E-ZPass) / $2.00 (Pay-by-Plate)
- No further gantries on this route.
- Total E-ZPass: $1.00
- Total Pay-by-Plate: $2.00
Sample NH Toll Calculation: Portsmouth to Salem via I-95
- Hampton Toll Plaza (NB): $2.00 (E-ZPass) / $3.00 (Pay-by-Plate)
- Total E-ZPass: $2.00
- Total Pay-by-Plate: $3.00
Sample NH Toll Calculation: Dover to Manchester via Spaulding Turnpike and I-93
- Spaulding Turnpike (NB): $0.75 (E-ZPass) / $1.50 (Pay-by-Plate)
- Hooksett Tolls (NB): $1.00 (E-ZPass) / $2.00 (Pay-by-Plate)
- Total E-ZPass: $1.75
- Total Pay-by-Plate: $3.50
Key Rules for E-ZPass Rental Car Use in New Hampshire
Rental car drivers in New Hampshire should follow the rules below. The rules save money. The rules save time. The rules avoid violations. The rules reduce stress.
- Bring your own E-ZPass transponder from any member state.
- Decline the rental company’s toll program at the counter.
- Check the rental car for a built-in transponder. Deactivate the transponder.
- Mount your personal transponder behind the rearview mirror.
- Take photos of the dashboard and the mounted transponder.
- Review the final receipt for unexpected toll charges.
- Call the rental company within 30 days to dispute any incorrect charges.
- Use toll-free roads when possible to avoid fees.
- Keep your E-ZPass account active with a valid payment method.
- Check the E-ZPass NH website for the latest rates and policies.
New Hampshire E-ZPass Rental Car FAQ
The following questions cover the most common concerns from rental car drivers in New Hampshire. The answers come from the E-ZPass NH website, the NH DOT Bureau of Turnpikes, and the rental company policies. The answers reflect the current rules as of 2026.
Can I use my E-ZPass from Massachusetts in New Hampshire?
Yes. E-ZPass is interoperable across 19 states. A Massachusetts E-ZPass transponder works on every New Hampshire toll road. The toll deducts from your home account at the E-ZPass rate. You pay no extra fee. The charge shows up on your MA E-ZPass statement as a New Hampshire toll. The same applies to E-ZPass from New York, New Jersey, Maine, and the other 18 member states. Interoperability makes E-ZPass the best choice for cross-state travel.
How much does the rental company charge per toll in New Hampshire?
The rental company charges the Pay-by-Plate toll rate plus a service fee. The Pay-by-Plate rate is about 50% higher than the E-ZPass rate. The service fee ranges from $3.95 to $14.95 per toll. The fee varies by rental company. The fee varies by rental state. The fee applies on top of the toll cost. The total cost often reaches $10 to $25 per toll. The driver can avoid the fee by using a personal E-ZPass or paying cash at the agency’s office within a short window.
What happens if I forget to pay a toll in a rental car?
The rental company receives the Pay-by-Plate invoice. The rental company charges your credit card. The rental company adds a service fee. The charge appears on the credit card statement 2 to 4 weeks after the trip. The charge may come from a different merchant name. The name may look like “HC*TollCharge” or “EnterpriseTollPass.” If you do not pay the charge, the rental company may send the debt to collections. The rental company may charge an additional fee. The rental company may report the debt to a credit bureau. The debt can affect your credit score.
Can I get a New Hampshire E-ZPass as a visitor from another state?
Yes. Visitors can apply for a New Hampshire E-ZPass account. The application requires a name, address, vehicle plate number, and credit card. The application is online at the E-ZPass NH website. The transponder costs $7.95. The minimum balance is $30. The transponder ships in 5 to 7 business days. The visitor can also visit the Concord office. The office is at 7 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03302. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The visitor can pick up the transponder the same day if needed. The visitor can return the transponder after the trip for a refund of the remaining balance.
How do I dispute a toll charge on my rental car?
First, contact the rental company. The phone number is on the rental contract. The customer service line handles toll disputes. Have the contract number ready. Have the credit card statement ready. Have the E-ZPass account number ready. The agent will review the charge. The agent will refund the charge if the driver opted out of the toll program. The agent will refund the charge if the personal transponder was active. The refund takes 2 to 4 weeks. If the refund does not arrive, contact the credit card company. The credit card company may reverse the charge. The credit card company may issue a chargeback. The chargeback protects the driver from unfair charges.
Is the Hampton toll plaza the most expensive in New Hampshire?
Yes. The Hampton toll plaza on I-95 charges $2.00 with E-ZPass. The plaza charges $3.00 with Pay-by-Plate. The rate is the highest single toll in New Hampshire. The plaza has two gantries. The gantries charge in the same direction. Drivers heading northbound pay one toll. Drivers heading southbound pay another. The plaza sees heavy traffic between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The plaza sees heavy traffic during leaf-peeping season in October. The plaza serves drivers heading to Maine and the Canadian Maritimes. The plaza is the main toll point for cross-border travel.
Do I need to return the E-ZPass transponder when I leave New Hampshire?
Only if you bought a New Hampshire-specific transponder. Visitors who buy a transponder can return it after the trip. The return requires mailing the transponder to the E-ZPass Customer Service Center. The return requires closing the account online. The balance refunds to the credit card on file. The refund takes 2 to 4 weeks. The deposit does not refund if the account closes within 12 months. Visitors who use their home E-ZPass do not need to return anything. The home account stays active. The transponder stays with the visitor. The visitor can use the same transponder on future trips.