Current Golden Gate Bridge Toll Rates and Payment Rules
The Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District sets the toll for passenger cars at $9.75 for a two-axle vehicle using a FasTrak account or license plate account as of the latest published rate schedule. Drivers without a pre-paid account pay a higher one-time toll of $10.75 per crossing, which is automatically recorded by the bridge's all-electronic tolling system and linked to the license plate number. The toll applies only in the southbound direction into San Francisco, and the district updates rates periodically based on inflation and capital improvement funding needs. For the most current rate table and schedule changes, see the official Golden Gate Bridge toll page Golden Gate Bridge Tolls.
Toll collection is entirely cashless, meaning no cash payments are accepted at the bridge or at traditional toll booths. The system uses overhead cameras and sensors to read license plates and match them to accounts or issue violation notices. Golden Gate Transit buses, motorcycles, and carpools with three or more people are not charged a toll under current policy. The district publishes annual financial reports that detail toll revenue, usage trends, and how funds are allocated to bridge maintenance and transit services.
Payment Methods and Account Options
FasTrak Account
A FasTrak account is the standard electronic toll payment method used on the Golden Gate Bridge and most California state bridges. You can open a FasTrak account online through the California Department of Transportation or at authorized retail locations, and you must attach a reusable FasTrak transponder to your windshield. The account automatically deducts the toll each time you cross the bridge, and you can choose to pay via credit card, debit card, or automatic bank draft. FasTrak users receive the lowest per-crossing rate and can manage their balance, transaction history, and vehicle profiles through the FasTrak online portal Bay Area FasTrak.
License Plate Account
A license plate account lets you pay the Golden Gate Bridge toll without a physical transponder by linking your vehicle's license plate number to a prepaid or postpaid account. You register your license plate online, and the bridge's automatic license plate recognition system matches the plate to your account at each crossing. This option is available for California-registered passenger cars and light trucks, and you can manage the account through the Golden Gate Bridge official website or the FasTrak customer portal. If your vehicle's license plate changes or you sell the vehicle, you must update your account information to avoid incorrect toll charges or violation notices.
One-Time Payment and Invoice Options
Drivers who cross without a FasTrak or license plate account receive a one-time toll invoice by mail within a few weeks of the crossing. The invoice includes the toll amount, a payment due date, and instructions for paying online, by phone, or by mail. If the invoice is not paid by the due date, the district adds a penalty fee, and repeated unpaid invoices can result in additional fees and potential registration holds. You can look up and pay a Golden Gate Bridge invoice directly through the official toll payment website Golden Gate Bridge Toll Payment.
Violation Enforcement and Account Management
Enforcement and Penalties
The Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District enforces toll payment through automated license plate recognition and photographic evidence. If the system cannot match a crossing to a valid account, the registered vehicle owner receives a violation notice with a fine that is higher than the standard toll. Violation fines increase for repeat offenses, and unpaid violations can be reported to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, which may