Buying a SunPass

Traffic — usually a means for a headache. From long drives to horrible drivers to congested highways, driving to my destination never seems like an easy task. As I was driving down the turnpike this past weekend, I came across a slew of traffic. Accident? Nope Rush hour? No, but this horde of traffic was from people not having a SunPass. Yes, instead of driving at a steady pace, this group of cars was about 25 deep. Argh!

This traffic jam just reconfirmed how important it is to invest in a SunPass. So if you are a long time resident, new to the area or visit on a recurring basis, the SunPass is something you will want to invest in.

Why?

Buying a SunPass will have you traveling with less headaches. No stopping, no looking for change to pass through a toll and no delays when passing through. Plus, you will save money on all tolls. This will work in SunPass lanes, E-Pass lanes and wherever LeeWay logos appear. It can also be used in the express lanes on I-95 between Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Now, the SunPass can also be used at the airport. Right now, it will work at the airports in Tampa and Orlando, but will soon work in Miami and Palm Beach International.

Where can you purchase one?

A SunPass mini-sticker and a SunPass Portable transponder are available for purchase at any of these location:  Publix and CVS stores throughout Florida, all Turnpike service plazas, all Turnpike gas stations, the SunPass Service Center, Navarro Pharmacies and Sedano’s Markets in Broward and Miami-Dade Counties.

How much does it cost?

That depends on what type you want. You can purchase the SunPass Portable Transponder for $25 + tax at all authorized SunPass retailers. The SunPass Mini Sticker transponder is also available at authorized SunPass retailers and costs $4.99 + tax. Once you register the mini sticker, you will receive $4.99 in toll credits.  The minimum starting balance is $10.

What do you need to do?

1. Purchase your SunPass
2. Register your SunPass online. You will need your basic information, information on your vehicle, including your license plate number, your transponder ID number and an initial prepaid amount (min. $10).
3. Attach SunPass to your windshield
4. If you activate your SunPass before noon, it will be activated after 4:00 pm. If you activate it after noon, it will normally be activated after 6:00 am the following morning.
5. You are ready to get on the road.

How does it work?

The original transponder will beep when driving through a toll, and when the toll has been paid. It will also let you know when your balance is low. The new transponder, the SunPass mini, is a bit different and doesn’t use batteries or lights so you will not hear or see anything when driving through tolls.

Photo by Viernest @ flickr