Hey there, fellow commuters! If you’ve ever driven through the Elizabeth River Tunnels in Virginia, you’ve probably encountered those pesky toll fees Don’t worry – I’ve been there too! Today, I’m gonna break down everything you need to know about using driveertcom bill pay services to handle those toll charges without the headache. As someone who crosses these tunnels regularly, I’ve learned a thing or two about making this process smooth and painless.
What is DriveERT and Why Should You Care?
DriveERT (Elizabeth River Tunnels) operates key tunnel crossings in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. If you’re a local or just passing through, chances are you’ll need to pay tolls when using these tunnels.
The good news? You don’t have to fumble for cash or worry about getting surprise violation notices in your mailbox The DriveERT,com bill pay system makes handling these payments super convenient – whether you planned ahead or drove through without an E-ZPass,
Payment Options Available on DriveERT.com
When it comes to paying your tolls through DriveERT, you’ve got a couple of options:
- Pay By Plate – This lets you pay for tolls after you’ve already passed through
- Invoice Payments – For when you’ve received a bill in the mail
- Violation Notices – When you need to address a missed payment
Let me tell you I used to dread getting those violation notices before I figured out how easy the online payment system is!
Step-by-Step Guide to Using DriveERT.com Bill Pay
For Pay By Plate Payments
- Visit the DriveERT website at www.driveert.com/toll-info/pay-by-plate/bill-payment/
- Look for the “Pay By Plate” option
- Enter your license plate number and state
- Follow the prompts to complete your payment
I always make sure to save the confirmation number – learned that lesson the hard way!
For Invoice or Violation Payments
If you’ve already received an invoice or violation notice, the process is slightly different:
- Grab your invoice/notice (you’ll need the reference number)
- Go to the DriveERT payment portal
- Select “Pay an Invoice/Notice”
- Enter your invoice number and follow the instructions
Pro tip: Set a reminder in your phone to pay within 30 days to avoid extra fees. Those administrative charges can really add up!
Alternative Payment Methods Through TollRoadsinVA
Did you know you can also pay your DriveERT tolls through the TollRoadsinVA website? This is actually super helpful when you want to manage payments for different toll facilities across Virginia.
To do this:
- Visit www.tollroadsinvirginia.com/Home/MakeAPayment
- Choose between “Pay a Missed Toll” or “Pay an Invoice/Notice”
- Enter the required information
- Complete your payment securely online
The TollRoadsinVA site is particularly useful if you’ve traveled on multiple toll roads and want to handle everything in one place. I personally find this option more convenient when I’ve been driving all over the state.
Understanding Administrative Fees for Virginia Toll Facilities
One thing that always confused me was why some toll facilities charged different administrative fees. Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect to pay in addition to your toll amount:
| Facility Name | Administrative Fee Amount |
|---|---|
| COLEMAN BRIDGE | $1.50 |
| DULLES TOLL ROAD | $0.00 |
| I-64 EXPRESS | $1.50 |
| I66 INSIDE BELTWAY | $1.50 |
| POWHITE PARKWAY | $1.50 |
| RMTA Expressway System | $1.50 |
As you can see, most facilities charge a $1.50 administrative fee, with Dulles Toll Road being the exception (no administrative fee). These fees are added to your toll amount when paying after the fact, which is why I eventually decided to just get an E-ZPass for my regular commute.
Avoiding Late Fees and Violations
Nobody wants to pay extra, right? Here’s how I avoid those annoying additional charges:
- Pay promptly – Try to pay within 5-7 days of using the tunnel
- Set reminders – I use my phone calendar to alert me
- Consider E-ZPass – If you use the tunnels regularly, this is definitely worth it
- Check your account – I review my toll history occasionally to catch any missed payments
One time I forgot about a toll and ended up with a $25 violation fee on top of my original $2 toll. Not fun! Since then, I’ve been much more diligent about paying on time.
Customer Support Options When You Need Help
We all know technology isn’t perfect, and sometimes you need to talk to a real human. If you’re having issues with DriveERT.com bill pay, you can:
- Call toll-free at 1-877-762-7824 (Monday-Friday, 7AM-7PM)
- Visit the VDOT Central Office at 1221 E. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23219
- Check the FAQ sections on either website for common issues
I’ve had to call the customer service line once when my payment wouldn’t process, and the rep was surprisingly helpful (contrary to what you might expect from government services!).
Common Issues with DriveERT Bill Pay and How to Solve Them
“I Can’t Find My Invoice Number”
This happens to me ALL the time! The invoice number is usually in the top right corner of your bill. If you’ve lost it, you can call customer service and provide your license plate number and they can look it up for you.
“The Website Isn’t Accepting My Payment”
I’ve encountered this too. Try:
- Using a different browser
- Clearing your cache and cookies
- Double-checking that your credit card information is entered correctly
- Trying again during non-peak hours (the system gets busy!)
“I Paid But Got Another Bill”
Sometimes there’s a processing delay. Keep your confirmation number handy and contact customer service if this happens. I always take a screenshot of my payment confirmation just in case.
Benefits of Creating an Account for Regular Users
If you’re like me and use the tunnels frequently, creating an account on DriveERT.com offers several advantages:
- Easily track your toll history
- Store payment information securely
- Receive email notifications about upcoming payments
- Access to special discounts for frequent users
It took me about 5 minutes to set up my account, and it’s saved me countless hours of hunting down old invoices and entering the same information repeatedly.
E-ZPass vs. Pay By Plate: Which is Right for You?
This is a question I get asked a lot, so let me break it down:
E-ZPass is better if:
- You use Virginia toll roads frequently
- You want to avoid administrative fees
- You prefer automatic payments
- You travel across multiple states with toll roads
Pay By Plate is better if:
- You rarely use toll facilities
- You’re just passing through Virginia
- You don’t want to purchase and maintain an E-ZPass transponder
- You prefer to pay as you go
For me, getting an E-ZPass was a no-brainer after calculating how much I was spending in administrative fees alone!
Planning Your Trip: Toll Calculator Tools
Did you know there are tools to estimate your toll costs before traveling? This has saved me from budget surprises on road trips!
Most toll facilities in Virginia, including those operated by DriveERT, offer toll calculators on their websites. You can input your entry and exit points to get an estimate of what you’ll pay.
I always check these before unfamiliar routes, especially when traveling with friends who might expect to split the costs.
Recent Updates to the DriveERT Payment System
The folks at DriveERT have been making some improvements lately! Some recent updates include:
- More user-friendly mobile interface
- Expanded payment options
- Improved notification system for upcoming due dates
- Better integration with other Virginia toll systems
These changes have definitely made the process smoother. Remember when we had to mail in payments? So glad those days are behind us!
The Future of Toll Collection in Virginia
Looking ahead, Virginia seems to be moving toward a more unified toll collection system. We might eventually see:
- A single platform for all toll payments statewide
- More automated options like pay-by-text
- Integration with mobile payment apps
- Advanced vehicle recognition technology
I’m personally looking forward to these improvements – anything that makes commuting easier gets a thumbs up from me!
Final Thoughts: Mastering DriveERT.com Bill Pay
Managing toll payments doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. With DriveERT.com bill pay and the TollRoadsinVA platform, you have convenient options to handle your toll obligations without the hassle.
Remember these key points:
- Pay promptly to avoid additional fees
- Consider which payment method works best for your situation
- Keep confirmation numbers for all transactions
- Reach out to customer service if you encounter issues
As someone who uses these systems regularly, I can tell you that once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature. No more panicking when you realize you forgot cash for the toll!
Have you had experiences with DriveERT or other Virginia toll systems? What tips would you add? We’re always looking to update our guides with real user experiences.
Toll Roads in Virginia
There are a number of toll facilities throughout Virginia operated by a wide variety of owners including public, private, regional and statewide authorities. The Toll Roads in Virginia website provides a central place for this information.
E-ZPass transponders allow drivers to easily pay tolls at all toll facilities located in Virginia, as well as many in surrounding states.
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and the Elizabeth River Crossing (ERC) team have developed a Toll Relief Program to administer funds from Elizabeth River Crossings (ERC) and the Commonwealth to help ease the financial burden of tolls on Hampton Roads residents hardest hit by tolls at the Elizabeth River Tunnels (ERT). Elizabeth River Tunnels include the Downtown Tunnel and Midtown Tunnel that cross from Portsmouth to Norfolk.
Use the interactive tool below to help determine if you might qualify.
Who is eligible for the program?To qualify for Toll Relief when using the Midtown and Downtown Tunnels, participants must:
- Residents of Chesapeake, Gloucester County, Hampton, Isle of Wight County, James City County, Newport News, Norfolk, Poquoson, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, York County, Franklin, Surry County or Southampton County and earn $65,000 or less per year are eligible to receive a 50% discount on up to 14 trips per week.
- Residents of Portsmouth and Norfolk earn $50,000 or less per year are eligible to receive a 100%. discount on up to 14 trips per week.
- Have or open a Virginia E-ZPass account.
- Must drive a passenger vehicle (Vehicles over 2-axles are not eligible).
- Proof of residency and income are required at the time of application.
What is Toll Relief? The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and the Elizabeth River Crossings (ERC) team have developed a Toll Relief Program to administer funds from ERC and the Commonwealth of Virginia intended to help ease the financial burden of tolls on Hampton Roads residents hardest hit by tolls at the Elizabeth River Tunnels (ERT). Elizabeth River Tunnels include the Downtown Tunnel and Midtown Tunnel that connect from Portsmouth to Norfolk.
How is the ERT Toll Relief Program funded? The program is funded by both Elizabeth River Crossings and the Commonwealth of Virginia. In 2022, ERC greatly expanded their annual contribution to $3.2 million per year through 2036, with an annual increase of 3.5%. In 2025, ERC will contribute $3.5 million to the program. In July 2024, legislation provided the basis for $101 million contribution from the Commonwealth’s general fund for additional toll relief to eligible drivers through 2036.
How does it work? The Elizabeth River Tunnels Toll Relief Program starts with an in-person application at either of the E-ZPass Customer Service Centers in Norfolk or Portsmouth or at the DriverERT Customer Care Center in Portsmouth.
Once youve been approved for the program, you will need to link your Virginia E-ZPass transponder to the unique Toll Relief confirmation code noted on your acceptance form. This transponder will now become the designated Toll Relief transponder. Trips associated with this designated transponder through the Downtown or Midtown tunnels will receive a credit equal to 50% or 100% of the 2-axle toll paid, depending on eligibility. The maximum number of trips for which a credit can be applied is limited to 14 per week (Monday-Sunday).
The discount will only be applied to trips taken through the Elizabeth River Tunnels with your Toll Relief designated transponder.
Am I eligible?
Residents of Hampton Roads* who earn $65,000 or less per year are eligible to receive a 50% discount on up to 14 trips per week. *Chesapeake, Gloucester County, Hampton, Isle of Wight County, James City County, Newport News, Norfolk, Poquoson, Portsmouth, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, York County, Franklin, Suffolk, Surry County or Southampton County.
Residents of locality with a score of 104 or higher on the fiscal stress index* who earn less than $50,000 per year are eligible to receive a 100% discount on up to 14 trips per week. *Portsmouth and Norfolk (as published by the Department of Housing and Community Development in July 2023)
Proof of income and residency must be presented at the time of enrollment.
One of the following is required for proof of residency:
- Driver’s license
- Utility / telephone / cable bill
- Checking / savings account statement
- Property tax bill
- Mortgage – proof of ownership
- Rental contract
- Military documentation confirming city of residence
One of the following is required for proof of income:
- Social Security statement
- W-2
- 1099-Misc
- One month of pay stubs
- IRS 1040
- Notarized employer’s statement
- Self-declaration of no income
How can I apply? When is the application period? There is no deadline, but applying early allows you to take maximum advantage of Toll Relief. To apply, visit one of our service centers:
Norfolk E-ZPass Customer Service Center 1701 Church Street Norfolk, Virginia 23504 Hours: Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Portsmouth E-ZPass Customer Service Center 4010 Victory Boulevard Portsmouth, Virginia 23701 Hours: Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
DriveERT Customer Care Center 309 County Street Portsmouth, VA 23704 Hours: Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The application process is designed to be quick and simple. Up-to-date proof of residency and income expedite the process. Contact 877-762-7824 or one of the Customer Service Centers with questions about what is needed to apply.
Why do I need an E-ZPass to participate in the program? By connecting your program application to your registered E-ZPass, VDOT can quickly and efficiently ensure that your trips are counted towards the program, and you are receiving your rebates and discounts accurately. Using E-ZPass also means you will pay the lowest toll rate while going through the tunnels – this can save you up to 66 percent and make the toll relief go further. Visit www.ezpassva.com for more information on E-ZPass.
I have an out-of-state E-ZPass, will that work? No, in order for the Toll Relief to connect to your account, you’ll need a Virginia E-ZPass transponder. Visit www.ezpassva.com or one of the Customer Service Centers to find out how to obtain an E-ZPass.
Toll Relief 2025 Program FAQ
Is electronic proof accepted? Pay stubs, photos of IDs, etc. Print is always accepted. E-ZPass may accept electronic files at its own discretion, but print is recommended, as E-ZPass does not store any of this data. If the electronic files have the same name, and information provided on the application and/or their ID, it will likely be accepted.
Can you enroll if you have an outstanding E-ZPass balance or outstanding VDOT express lane/HOV violations? Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirements, anyone can enroll in Toll Relief, regardless of their E-ZPass account balance. You will receive a unique discount code that you will link to your transponder. However, discounts cannot be applied if the account has a negative balance.
In order to start receiving the discounts, you must resolve your balance.
If I’m currently enrolled, will I get the 100% discount automatically, or do I have to reapply? If you enrolled in Toll Relief after August 1, and you meet the eligibility requirements for the 100% discount, you will start receiving it automatically on December 18th. You do not need to re-enroll.
If you enrolled prior to August 1, or your residency or income has changed since you last enrolled, you will need to re-enroll by providing new proof of income and residency.
If I re-enroll and am eligible for the additional 100% discount, can I receive refunds for my previous trips where I only received 50%? No, the additional 50% will not apply to previous trips through the Elizabeth River Tunnels (ERT).
Will there be pop-up locations in the 2 cities to enroll or do I have to come to Portsmouth or Norfolk? No, to enroll in Toll Relief, you must visit any of the three E-ZPass Customer Service Centers in Portsmouth or Norfolk.
Why is the new 100% discount program only limited to 2 cities and not all of Hampton Roads, like the original Toll Relief program? Research conducted by the Commonwealth of Virginia showed that Hampton Roads residents were the most heavily impacted by frequent ERT tolls. Any resident of Hampton Roads who earns less than $65,000 a year can still receive a 50% discount.
Per the Appropriations Act, the 5 cities eligible for the additional 50% discount were selected because they have a score of 104 or higher on the fiscal stress index, as published by the Department of Housing and Community Development in July 2023, and at least three tolled bridges or tunnels.
I have an outstanding ERT balance. When will I get relief for my ERT toll debt? Not at this time. In addition to the new toll discount, there is also funding allocated in the Appropriations Act to redeem outstanding customer balances and fees as of December 31, 2023, but the eligibility will be determined at a later date.
If I enroll in January 2025, I won’t have my W-2 for 2024 yet. Do I use my 2023 W-2 instead? Or another proof of income for 2024? If enrolling in 2025, tax documents from 2023 will not be accepted. The only 2023 document that will be accepted is a social security statement.
If submitting proof of income in the form of a tax document, it must be from the previous tax year (i.e. 2024).
Alternatively, if you have not received your 2024 W-2 yet, you could submit another form of proof of current income (i.e. pay stubs from the previous month, notarized current employer statement).
What if I qualify for the 100% discount in January and I enroll, but my income increases later in 2025, can I stay enrolled for the remainder of the year? Once you enroll, you will remain enrolled until the anniversary of your enrollment the following year. It is the responsibility of the enrollee to inform E-ZPass of any changes to their income or residency.
What if I qualify for the 100% discount in January and I enroll, but I move to a different city (outside the 2 accepted cities) later in the year? Once you enroll, you will remain enrolled until the anniversary of your enrollment the following year. It is the responsibility of the enrollee to inform E-ZPass of any changes to their income or residency.
What if I’m already receiving the 100% discount as a resident of Franklin, Newport News or Hampton? If you are a resident of Franklin, Newport News or Hampton, you will continue to receive your 100% discount until your enrollment anniversary. You are only subject to program changes upon re-enrollment. When it’s time for you to re-enroll, you must bring the required documentation to re-enroll. If you earn less than $65,000/year, you will be eligible for a 50% discount. Only residents of Portsmouth and Norfolk will be eligible to receive a 100% discount upon enrollment after April 1, 2025.
Introducing the New DriveERT Statement
FAQ
How do I pay the toll on the Elizabeth River?
Visit www.ezpassva.com or call 877-762-7824. Pay by Plate: No transponder needed. Drive through the Downtown or Midtown tunnel and the toll gantries will capture a picture of your license plate and mail you an invoice within 60 business days. Processing fees will apply to each transaction, plus the cost of the toll.
How to pay Virginia tolls online?
Website: Toll road drivers without E-ZPass can visit tollroadsinvirginia.com, operated by the Virginia Department of Transportation, to pay a toll online before or after receiving an invoice. Smartphone applications from private companies offer another way to pay.
What is the toll relief program in Norfolk VA?
Enroll for Virginia Department of Transportation and Elizabeth River Crossings’ Toll Relief Program today and save throughout the year! Norfolk residents earning $65,000 or less annually are eligible for a 50% discount on up to 14 trips per week at the Downtown and Midtown Tunnels.
What is the phone number for Elizabeth River Tunnels?
Pay by Plate. Payments and customer service concerns related to Pay by Plate accounts can be accomplished by clicking on “Pay Your Bill” below, by phone at (757) 837-0840, via email at [email protected] or at our Customer Care Center located at 309 County St Portsmouth, VA 23704.
