E-ZPass does send text messages, but only if you sign up for them
E-ZPass will text you about toll charges and account issues, but the service is optional. You have to request text notifications through your E-ZPass account — the system does not automatically send them. The messages cover things like low balance warnings, failed transactions, and account updates. What you receive depends on which state's E-ZPass program you use, since each state runs its own system with slightly different notification options.
If you have never seen a text from E-ZPass, you either have not turned on text notifications or your phone number is not on file with your account. The easiest way to check is to log into your E-ZPass account online and look for a settings or notifications section.
Key Takeaways
- E-ZPass text messages are optional and must be turned on in your account settings — they do not happen automatically.
- Common messages include low balance alerts, transaction failures, and notices about account changes or toll adjustments.
- Each state's E-ZPass program controls its own text system, so available message types vary by location.
- You need a valid phone number in your account for texts to arrive, and you can turn notifications on or off anytime.
How to turn on E-ZPass text notifications
Log into your E-ZPass account on your state's official E-ZPass website. Look for a section labeled "Account Settings," "Preferences," "Notifications," or "Communication Preferences" — the exact name depends on your state. Once you find it, you should see a checkbox or toggle for text message notifications.
Enter or confirm your cell phone number in the field provided. Make sure the number is correct, because E-ZPass will text that exact number. If you have changed phone numbers since you opened your account, update it here. Some states require you to verify the phone number by entering a code that arrives in a text message.
Select which types of messages you want to receive. Most E-ZPass programs let you choose between all notifications, low balance alerts only, or no texts at all. Save your changes. The system usually activates text notifications within a few minutes, though it can take up to an hour.
What kinds of messages E-ZPass sends
Low balance warnings are the most common text you will receive. E-ZPass texts you when your account balance drops below a threshold you set — usually somewhere between $5 and $20. This gives you time to add money before your balance hits zero and you cannot use the toll lanes.
Transaction failure messages arrive when a toll charge does not go through. This might happen if your account balance was too low, your payment method failed, or there was a technical problem at the toll plaza. The text tells you the toll amount and usually directs you to log in and fix the problem.
Account change notifications let you know when someone updates your account — a new payment method, a phone number change, a new vehicle added to your account, or a password reset. These messages help you catch unauthorized changes quickly.
Some states also send messages about toll rate changes, maintenance on toll roads, or special promotions. These are less frequent and usually only go to accounts that have opted in to all notifications.
Why you might not be getting E-ZPass texts
The most common reason is that text notifications are turned off in your account settings. Log in and check your notification preferences. If the setting is off, turn it on and make sure your phone number is correct.
Your phone number might be wrong or outdated in your account. If you changed carriers, got a new phone, or moved, your old number may no longer work. Update your phone number in account settings and verify it if the system asks you to.
Some phone plans or carriers block messages from short codes or automated systems. E-ZPass typically sends from a short code (a five- or six-digit number) rather than a regular phone number. If you suspect your carrier is blocking the messages, contact your phone company and ask them to allow messages from E-ZPass.
You might be looking at the wrong account. If you have more than one E-ZPass account — for example, one for a car and one for a truck — make sure you are checking the account you actually use for tolls. Text notifications are set separately for each account.
How to turn off E-ZPass text messages
Go back to your account settings and find the notifications section. Uncheck the box or toggle off text message notifications. Save your changes. The system will stop sending texts within a few minutes.
You can also reply to any E-ZPass text message with the word "STOP" to unsubscribe from that particular message type. Some states honor this command, though it is more reliable to turn off notifications through your account settings directly.
If you are getting texts from a number that claims to be E-ZPass but you do not recognize it, do not reply or click any links. E-ZPass scams exist, and they often impersonate the real system. Go directly to your state's official E-ZPass website and log in to check your account. If something looks wrong, call the customer service number on the back of your E-ZPass tag or on your account statement.
E-ZPass texts versus email notifications
Most E-ZPass programs offer both text and email notifications. Email is useful if you want a detailed record of transactions or account changes, while texts are better for urgent alerts like low balance warnings. You can usually turn on one, both, or neither.
Email notifications often include more information than texts — for example, a full receipt for a toll charge rather than just a confirmation that the charge went through. If you want detailed records, set up email notifications in addition to texts. If you only care about urgent alerts, texts alone are usually enough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can E-ZPass text me about tolls I owe from another state?
Only if you have an account in that state's E-ZPass system. Each state runs its own program, and they do not automatically share information. If you use tolls in multiple states, you may need separate accounts for each one, and each account sends its own texts.
Will E-ZPass text me if I go through a toll plaza without enough balance?
Yes, you will get a transaction failure message. The toll will still be charged to your account as a debt, and you will receive a notice. You should add funds to your account right away to cover the unpaid toll and avoid late fees or account suspension.
How often does E-ZPass send low balance texts?
Usually once per day if your balance stays below your alert threshold. If you set your alert at $10 and your balance is $8, you might get a text each day until you add more money. You can adjust the threshold in your account settings to get alerts sooner or later.
Is it safe to click links in E-ZPass text messages?
Links in official E-ZPass texts are safe, but scammers often send fake E-ZPass messages with malicious links. If you get a text asking you to verify your account or claiming there is a problem, go directly to your state's official E-ZPass website instead of clicking the link. Never give your account number or password to anyone who texts you.
Can I get E-ZPass texts on a landline?
No, E-ZPass only sends text messages to cell phone numbers. If you do not have a cell phone, you can set up email notifications instead, or you can check your account balance online anytime by logging in.