Will I be charged twice if I have both a sticker and a FasTrak Flex transponder in my vehicle?
If you have both a sticker and a FasTrak Flex transponder mounted in your car, only one transponder will be read during a toll transaction. For roads like The Toll Roads, where carpool discounts aren’t offered, it doesn’t matter which device is detected—your account is charged once based on the toll rate.
On facilities offering carpool discounts, the FasTrak Flex’s switch setting (indicating occupants) determines the charge, ensuring you’re not billed twice. Always register both transponders to your account to avoid issues.
Do sticker transponders work on metalized windshields?
No sticker transponders do not work on metalized windshields. Metalized windshields, which contain metal oxide, can interfere with a sticker transponder’s signal, preventing proper reading. If your vehicle has this type of glass, check your owner’s manual for a designated “cut-out” area where transponders can be mounted.
Otherwise, you may need an exterior headlamp sticker transponder, available by logging into your account at TheTollRoads.com or contacting customer service at (949) 727-4800. This ensures seamless toll payments.
Should I adhere a sticker transponder if I use the I-15 Express Lanes in San Diego?
Yes, you should to adhere a sticker transponder on your car for the I-15 Express Lanes in San Diego. A properly mounted FasTrak transponder is required to use these lanes without incurring violations.
For solo drivers, a sticker transponder works fine, but if you carpool, a FasTrak Flex transponder is necessary to signal occupant numbers and qualify for discounts. Clean and affix the sticker to your windshield’s interior, following installation guidelines, to ensure it’s read correctly on the I-15.
How do I install my sticker transponder?
To install a sticker transponder correctly, follow these steps:
- Clean the windshield: Use isopropyl alcohol to clean the mounting area inside the windshield and let it dry completely.
- Choose a spot: Place the sticker in one of three positions—lower left corner, lower right corner, or behind the rearview mirror, at least 1½ inches from the edge.
- Peel and stick: Carefully remove the backing, avoid touching the adhesive, and press the sticker flat against the glass.
Do not reposition it, as this can break the antenna, rendering it unusable. For metalized windshields, consider a headlamp sticker instead.
Do I have to affix the sticker to my car for my account to continue to function?
Yes, you have to affix the sticker to your car for your account to continue to function. California law (Vehicle Code § 23302) requires a properly mounted transponder or valid license plate registered to your account for automatic toll payments.
Without it, you risk violations, as holding a transponder manually while driving is illegal. Affix the sticker to your windshield or request an exterior transponder for special cases like metalized glass to keep your account active and compliant.
What do I do with the sticker transponder if I sell my car?
If you sell your car, before selling, log into your account at TheTollRoads.com, remove the vehicle and transponder from your profile, and request a new sticker transponder for free if needed for another car. Do not leave the sticker on the sold vehicle, as it’s tied to your account and could lead to unintended charges until updated.
What if I get a new windshield? What do I do about the affixed sticker transponder?
If you get a new windshield, log into your account at TheTollRoads.com, navigate to “Transponders,” and request a free replacement sticker transponder. Once received, install it properly on the new windshield to ensure uninterrupted toll payments. Update your account if the vehicle details change.
How many transponders do I need?
You’ll need one transponder per vehicle listed on your account to avoid violations, as sharing a single transponder can lead to missed tolls or penalties.
Sticker transponders are vehicle-specific and non-transferable, while FasTrak Flex transponders can be moved between cars if all license plates are registered. For convenience and accurate toll tracking, assign a unique transponder to each car you drive on toll roads.
Can I move my FasTrak transponder from car to car?
Whether you can move a FasTrak transponder between vehicles depends on the type:
- Sticker transponder: No, it’s permanently adhered to the windshield. Moving it will break it, so request additional stickers for other cars via TheTollRoads.com.
- FasTrak Flex transponder: Yes, you can transfer it between vehicles, but ensure every car’s license plate is listed on your account to prevent violations.
Always update your account with current vehicle information for seamless toll processing.
Do I have to mount my FasTrak transponder on my windshield?
Yes, you have to mount your FasTrak transponder on your windshield to California law requires a transponder to be properly mounted on the windshield for accurate toll collection, per Vehicle Code § 23302. Hand-holding a transponder is illegal and may result in violations. For vehicles with metalized windshields, request an exterior headlamp transponder by logging into TheTollRoads.com or calling (949) 727-4800 to ensure compliance and functionality.
How do I return my transponders?
To return your transponder:
- Sticker transponder: These are typically not returned, as they’re single-use and break upon removal. Update your account to deactivate it.
- FasTrak Flex transponder: Mail it to the FasTrak Customer Service Center or drop it off at a walk-in center. For Bay Area users, call 877-BAY-TOLL (877-229-8655) for a prepaid envelope.
Check with your toll agency for specific instructions, and ensure your account reflects the return to avoid future charges.
