E-ZPass provides discounts at numerous NYC bridges and tunnels connecting Manhattan to the outer boroughs and New Jersey, as well as on toll highways like the New York Thruway. It also allows you to minimize waiting time passing through tolls.
To get one, you need to agree to abide by the E-ZPass License Agreement Terms & Conditions including that you will approach and pass through E-ZPass-only lanes at or below the posted speed limit. For a first E-ZPass speeding violation, the E-ZPass Violation Processing Unit will usually issue a warning letter with a 60-day probationary period. Here’s a sample letter:
For a second violation, you will likely be suspended for 60 days by the E-ZPass Violation Processing Center, and for a third violation your suspension can be extended or you can lose your E-ZPass altogether.
Note that these penalties are based on speeding while using any E-ZPass tag assigned to your account (not just the one which resulted in the first letter).
The good news is that getting caught speeding through an E-ZPass lane is not a moving violation and will not appear on your driver license or affect your auto insurance rates (except if a police officer actually issues you a traffic ticket for speeding and you are convicted of that charge).
To sign up for an E-ZPass, call 1-800-333-8655 or visit www.e-zpassny.com