Enforcement In Express Lanes

How is toll collection in express lanes enforced?

California Highway Patrol (CHP) currently enforces occupancy requirements for express lanes.

In the express lanes, toll system cameras mounted roadside will capture images of vehicle license plates. If a valid FasTrak toll tag is not detected, an image of the vehicle license plate will be used to send a violation notice to the vehicle’s registered owner through the mail. The notice will include the toll amount plus a penalty for using the express lane without a valid FasTrak toll tag.

What happens if I use an express lane as a solo driver and without a FasTrak toll tag?

You will be in violation of the California Vehicle Code and subject to a citation and fine if caught by the California Highway Patrol (CHP).

How much is the violation penalty for using an express lane without a valid FasTrak toll tag?

If you use an express lane without a valid FasTrak toll tag, you will receive a violation notice. The following is a schedule of toll evasion penalties:

First notice issued: $25 penalty
Second (delinquent) notice issued: $70 ($25 penalty plus $45 late fee). If the toll is paid within 15 days, the penalty is reduced to $25

Failure to pay the second notice may result in additional penalties and fees and withholding of your vehicle registration by the DMV and/or a referral to a collections agency. In addition, high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane (also called "carpool lane") violation penalties may apply.

What happens if a FasTrak Flex toll tag is switched to 2 or 3+ position, but there is only one person in the vehicle?

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) enforces occupancy requirements in express lanes. When a FasTrak Flex or FasTrak CAV toll tag is set in position 2 or position 3+, CHP is alerted that a vehicle is using the express lane toll free. CHP will visually confirm that this vehicle qualifies for toll-free status; if not, CHP may pull the vehicle over. CHP may issue the driver a carpool citation in excess of $400.