E-ZPass does send text messages, but only if you set up notifications in your account
E-ZPass will not text you automatically. The system sends text alerts only when you turn on notifications through your account dashboard or mobile app. Once you enable them, you receive messages about toll charges, low balance warnings, and account issues — but the specific alerts depend on which state's E-ZPass program you use and what notification options that program offers.
The reason this matters: if you're expecting alerts and don't receive them, it's usually because notifications were never activated, not because E-ZPass isn't working. Many account holders set up E-ZPass, use it for months, and never realize they could have been getting real-time updates about their transponder activity.
Key Takeaways
- E-ZPass text notifications must be turned on manually through your account settings — they are not sent by default.
- Most E-ZPass programs offer low balance alerts, transaction confirmations, and account status messages via text when enabled.
- The phone number you register with E-ZPass is the one that receives texts, so updating your number requires logging into your account.
- If you stop receiving texts after setting them up, check that your phone number is still current and that notifications remain enabled in your account.
How to Turn On E-ZPass Text Notifications
Log into your E-ZPass account through the official website or mobile app for your state. Each state runs its own E-ZPass program — New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and others each have separate portals. Once you're logged in, look for a section labeled "Notifications," "Alerts," "Preferences," or "Settings."
In that section, you'll see checkboxes or toggle switches for the types of messages you want to receive. Common options include low balance notifications (sent when your prepaid account drops below a threshold you set), transaction alerts (confirming each toll charge), and account alerts (problems with your transponder or payment method). Select the ones you want, enter or confirm your mobile phone number, and save your changes.
The phone number you provide must be a working cell phone that can receive text messages. Some programs also let you set a preferred time window for alerts — for example, you might choose not to receive texts between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Check whether your state's program offers this option.
What Types of Messages E-ZPass Sends
Low balance alerts are the most common. When your prepaid account balance falls below the amount you've set (often $5 or $10), E-ZPass texts you to remind you to add funds. This prevents the frustration of hitting a toll plaza with an empty account.
Transaction confirmations show up after you pass through a toll. The message typically includes the toll amount, the location, and your new account balance. This is useful for tracking your spending and catching unauthorized use or billing errors.
Account alerts notify you of problems: a transponder that's not reading correctly, a payment method that failed, or an account that's been flagged for review. These messages are important because they tell you to take action before you're unable to use the toll road.
Maintenance and service notifications inform you about system outages, planned updates, or changes to toll rates. These are less frequent but help you understand why you might not receive other alerts during a service window.
Why You Might Not Be Receiving Texts
The most common reason is that notifications were never enabled. Many people create an E-ZPass account, load it with money, and assume alerts are automatic. They're not. You have to opt in through your account settings.
Your phone number may be outdated. If you changed your cell phone number and didn't update it in your E-ZPass account, texts will go to the old number. Log in and check that the phone number on file matches your current mobile number.
Your phone may be blocking messages from the E-ZPass number. Some carriers or third-party apps filter texts from automated systems. Check your phone's spam or blocked messages folder, and if you find E-ZPass texts there, mark them as not spam so future messages reach your inbox.
Your state's E-ZPass program may have a technical issue. If you've confirmed that notifications are on and your phone number is correct, contact your state's E-ZPass customer service. They can check whether your account is set up to send texts and troubleshoot from their end.
Differences Between State E-ZPass Programs
E-ZPass is not one national system — it's a network of state-run toll programs that work together. New York's program, for example, is run by the New York State Thruway Authority. New Jersey's is run by the New Jersey Turnpike Authority. Each state controls its own website, app, and notification features.
This means the text alert options available to you depend on which state issued your transponder. A New York E-ZPass account may offer different notification types than a Pennsylvania account. If you use E-ZPass in multiple states, you may have separate accounts with different notification settings for each.
Before assuming your state doesn't offer text alerts, check the help section or FAQ on your state's E-ZPass website. The feature may exist but be named differently than you expect, or it may be available only through the mobile app, not the website.
How to Update Your Phone Number
Log into your E-ZPass account and find the section for account information, profile settings, or personal details. This is usually in a menu labeled "My Account" or "Account Settings." Look for a field showing your phone number.
Click to edit the phone number, enter your new cell phone number, and save the change. Some programs ask you to confirm the new number by entering a code they text to it. This verification step ensures the number is real and belongs to you.
After you update your phone number, test the change by enabling a notification type (or re-enabling it if it was already on). Pass through a toll or wait for your low balance alert to confirm that texts are now reaching your new number.
E-ZPass Alerts vs. Invoice Notifications
E-ZPass sends two different types of messages: real-time alerts about your account activity, and billing or invoice notifications. Real-time alerts are the text messages discussed above — they arrive when you use the toll road or when your balance drops.
Invoice notifications are different. If you use E-ZPass on a credit card or bank account instead of a prepaid balance, you may receive email or paper invoices monthly. Some programs also send email notifications when an invoice is ready. These are not text messages and are controlled through a separate notification setting.
Make sure you understand which type of notification you're looking for. If you want texts about every toll you pass through, you need real-time transaction alerts enabled. If you only want to know when your monthly bill is ready, you may be looking for invoice email notifications instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get E-ZPass alerts on my email instead of text?
Some state programs offer email notifications as an alternative to or in addition to text messages. Check your notification settings in your account — you may see options for both SMS (text) and email. Not all states offer email alerts, so if you don't see the option, your program may text only.
Will E-ZPass text me if my transponder stops working?
Yes, if you have account alerts enabled. When a transponder fails to read or is reported as damaged, E-ZPass sends a notification telling you to replace it. You'll need to order a new transponder through your account or contact customer service.
Do I get charged for E-ZPass text messages?
No. E-ZPass text alerts are free. Your wireless carrier does not charge you for receiving them, and E-ZPass does not charge you either. They're included as part of your account service.
What if I don't want to receive E-ZPass texts anymore?
Log into your account and turn off notifications in your settings. You can disable all alerts or turn off only specific types — for example, you could keep low balance alerts but disable transaction confirmations. Your changes take effect when ready.
Can I set up E-ZPass alerts if I don't have a cell phone?
Most E-ZPass programs require a mobile phone number to send text alerts. If you don't have a cell phone, you can still use E-ZPass and manage your account online or by phone, but you won't receive text notifications. Contact your state's E-ZPass customer service to explore other options for account updates.