The EZ Pass RI resident discount plan is designed to cater to people from Rhode Island who are frequent users of bridges and toll roads. With this program, you will find traveling less expensive because it offers rates on tolls that are lower than the normal ones.
In this guide, we will delve into the nuts and bolts of the discount plan by EZ Pass RI including eligibility, application, usage, and benefits, so whether you are a commuter on the Newport Pell Bridge or someone trying to save on the currency spent on tolls, you are covered. Continue reading to learn the ins and outs of this discount plan.
EZ Pass RI Resident Discount Plan
The Resident Discount Plan gives discounts on toll charges for certain transport infrastructure in Rhode Island like bridges and highways. This is designed to encourage cost-efficient commuting by offering value-for-money options to lower the burden of traveling.
Benefits of the EZ Pass RI Resident Discount Plan
This discount plan is great for the residents of Rhode Island because:
- Lower Rates – You do not have to pay the same amount as toll charges.
- Faster Payments – No overhead cash transactions are needed at toll booths.
- Automatic Account Payments – Pay automatically using cash stored in your account.
- No Hassle Travel – Electronic toll collection provides seamless travel with no obstruction.
- Only Comes With Advantages For Rhode Island Residents – It provides a chance for some of the residents to spend less on commuting.
Toll Roads and Bridges Covered
The discount plan primarily applies to:
| Toll Road/Bridge | Discount Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Claiborne Pell/Newport Bridge | Yes |
| Sakonnet River Bridge | No (Toll removed) |
| I-95 Toll Gantries | No (Currently not applicable) |
Important: The discount scheme does not apply aside from: The Claiborne Pell/Newport Bridge is the only toll bridge where the discount applies.
The EZ Pass RI Resident discount plan is a first step for Rhode Island citizens toward lower travel expenses and better commuting if they use the Newport Bridge frequently.
Qualifications for Resident Discount Plan
Rhode Island residents who would like to cut down on toll fees might be interested in the EZ Pass RI Resident Discount Plan, and with the right requirements, you certainly can. To be eligible for this forward-thinking scheme, there are criteria to be met in terms of the residence, the car’s ownership, and documentation. Below, we break down the key requirements you need to fulfill.
Residency Requirements
In order to apply for the Resident Discount Plan, you will need:
- To be a legal resident of the state of Rhode Island.
- To have a document that proves a residency, which may include:
- A valid driver’s license from the state of Rhode Island.
- Any utility bill such as (electricity, water, gas) under your name.
- Rental or mortgage agreement stating a Rhode Island address.
Note: Addresses that only have a P.O. Box will be disregarded.
Vehicle Requirements
EZ Pass RI resident discount plan does not apply to all vehicles. Your vehicle must meet the following conditions:
- Registration should be done in the state of Rhode Island.
- Vehicle should be a Class 1 (cars, pickup trucks, SUVs).
- An active EZ Pass transponder must be properly mounted in the vehicle.
The table below provides a summary of qualifying vehicles:
| Vehicle Type | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Passenger Car (Sedan) | Yes |
| Pickup Truck | Yes |
| SUV | Yes |
| Commercial Vehicle | No |
| Motorcycle | No |
Required Documentation
The following documentation is required while applying for the EZ Pass RI Resident Discount Plan:
1. Personal Identification
- A valid driver’s license issued by Rhode Island.
2. Proof of Residency (any one of the following)
- A recently received utility bill (must be issued within the last two months).
- A lease agreement signed or a mortgage statement.
- Vehicle registration that indicates a Rhode Island address.
3. Vehicle Information
- A copy of the vehicle registration from Rhode Island.
- Details of the transponder if the EZ Pass transponder has been issued.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you will not only be able to make full use of the EZ Pass RI Resident Discount Plan, but also multiply and expand the coverage with ease. If you are eligible, you may proceed to the next step, which is filling out the appropriate application form. We describe that process in the following section.
How To Apply For The Resident Discount Plan?
Whether you choose to apply online or offline, applying for the EZ Pass RI resident discount plan is a pretty simple process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with the process, so you can enjoy lower toll rates as a resident of Rhode Island.
Steps in Filling up the Application Form Online
The most efficient way to apply for the discount program would be through the Internet, All you have to do is follow these steps:
- Go To The Official Website
- Click on EZ Pass RI link.
- Look for the section titled “Resident Discount Plan.”
- Create An Account or log in
- For new users, you have to fill in your information to register.
- Older users can log in as per their user details.
- Fill Out An Application Form
- Name and a RI address
- Vehicle details (model, make and license plate)
- Method of payment to fund the account
- Documents Required To Be Uploaded
- Proof for being a resident of Rhode Island (utility bill, driver’s license or a lease agreement)
- Registration for the vehicle with a Rhode Island address
- Applicable Fees Penalty Payment
- Fee for the minimum required balance for prepaid transponder tolls
- Submit Your Application
- Make sure everything you filled out is correct.
- Click on the “Submit” button.
- After a while, you will receive a confirmation email.
How To Apply In Person
Here’s an outline of what you need to do if you’d rather do it in person at any of the physical EZ Pass RI locations.
- Go to an EZ Pass RI Service Center
- Try to look for them on the website.
- Bring The Paper Work That Was Needed
- A document that proves that you live in Rhode Island.
- Document that proves you own the car.
- Your ID since it comes with having a credit or debit card.
- Fill Out The Application By Hand
- Pick the paper from the service center and fill it out.
- Pay The Required fees and submit the application
- Apply with the application and pay all the needed fees.
- Get the confirmation of your application for the receipt.
- Get Your Transponder
- Ideally, transponders are sent out by mail. However, in case your EZ Pass RI resident discount plan transponder option is activated, you shall receive it right away.
Different Payment Types And Necessary Fees
Below is a summary of the fees involved in applying for the discount plan:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Transponder Fee | Varies | Some accounts may receive it for free |
| Minimum Prepaid Balance | $25 | Required to activate the account |
| Replacement Transponder | $10 | If the original is lost or damaged |
- Accepted payment methods:
- Credit/Debit Card
- Funds transfer
- In-person application payments in cash
- Postal order by check or money order
Applying for the EZ Pass RI resident discount plan is beneficial because tolls in Rhode Island are highly expensive. If you plan to apply in person or submit online, you can avoid the trouble of completing the process by following the steps given below.
How to Use the EZ Pass RI Resident Discount
The EZ Pass RI resident discount plan makes traveling on Rhode Island’s toll roads more affordable, however it is important to understand how to configure it. Below is your how-to guide so that you take the most advantage of your discount plan.
How to Use Your EZ Pass Transponder
When you acquire the EZ Pass transponder, ensure that you do the following steps in order to use it accurately:
- Proper Transponder Installation:
- Position it like it requires placement on your windshield.
- Position it on your windshield so that reliable fee assessment is guaranteed.
- Pilot The Vehicle Through Only EZ Pass Lanes:
- Open the windows on the cabin and through near the cash or non-EZ Pass lanes to block toll deduction.
- Look for signs indicating EZ Pass lane at the toll.
- Check Your Funds Sure Your Account Has
- Keep a good balance to keep your discounts working and avoid discount interruptions.
- Enable automatic account replenishment in case the balance goes below of what you wish.
Where Can You Use the EZ Pass RI Resident Discount Plan?
The discount applies to specific toll locations in Rhode Island. Here’s a breakdown:
| Toll Road/Bridge | Discount Eligibility | Standard Toll | Discounted Toll |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newport Pell Bridge | RI Residents with EZ Pass | $4.00 | $0.83 (per trip) |
| Sakonnet River Bridge | Currently No Toll | N/A | N/A |
| Other Rhode Island Toll Roads | Not Covered Under Plan | Varies | Not Applicable |
Note: The discount applies only to the Newport Pell Bridge for eligible Rhode Island residents.
Payment Payment Options: Automatic or Manual
1. Automatic Payments (Recommended)
- Link a debit or credit card to your EZ Pass account at the official website or EZ Pass RI app.
- Your funds are automatically replenished when your balance is low.
- This ensures no delays in the discount applications.
2. Manual Payments
- Manually load funds through the ez pass RI webpage or at the customer service center.
- This payment method requires constant observation to avoid running low on funds.
Resolving Discount Problems
If your EZ Pass RI resident discount plan isn’t applying correctly, follow these steps:
- Assessment of Account: Make sure that you have an active account that has enough credit.
- Check Residency Status: Ensure that your residency in Rhode Island is valid as it will have to be updated from time to time.
- Toll Lane Usage: Always use designated fast-track lanes with the EZ Pass for discounts.
- EZ Pass Call Center: For persistent issues, get in touch for help.
Correct and appropriate use of the EZ Pass RI resident discount plan is fundamental for problem-free travel and maximizing savings on tolls. Here are some tips that can help you benefit the most from all the discounts on your tolls without breaking a sweat!
Conclusion
The EZ Pass RI resident discount plan allows residents of Rhode Island to travel without restrictions while still saving on tolls. To get the best rates on the Newport Pell Bridge, ensure that you fulfill the applicable criteria, complete the application properly, and use the transponder correctly. Regardless of whether you set your account for manual payments for convenience or you control it yourself, make sure there is enough money on the account to avoid interruptions. Save on travel costs and make commuting easy with the EZ Pass RI resident discount plan!
