The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most iconic structures in the world. Spanning the Golden Gate strait between San Francisco and Marin County, the 1.7-mile long bridge is an engineering marvel and a symbol of California. Millions of people cross the bridge each year, and while it’s a great way to get from one side of the bay to the other, you may be wondering how much it costs to make the trip.
The answer is, it depends. The Golden Gate Bridge has different toll rates depending on the type of vehicle you’re driving, the time of day, and the type of payment you’re using. For some travelers, crossing the bridge may be free. For others, it could cost up to $8.
Let’s break down the various toll rates:
- For solo drivers, the toll is $7 during peak hours (weekdays 5 a.m. to 9 a.m., and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.) and $6 during non-peak hours. The toll is waived if you have a FasTrak account and you’re driving a two-axle vehicle.
- For carpools of two or more people, the toll is free during peak hours, and $5 during non-peak hours. The carpool must have a FasTrak account to qualify.
- For vehicles with three or more axles, the toll is $5 during peak hours, and $4 during non-peak hours.
- For motorcycles, the toll is $4.
If you’re paying cash, you can use one of the five lanes designated for cash payments at the south end of the bridge. The machines accept cash in $1, $5, and $10 bills. The machines do not accept coins, credit cards or checks.
If you’re using a FasTrak account, you can use any designated lane. The toll is automatically deducted from your account. You can use your FasTrak on all Bay Area bridges and toll roads, including the San Mateo-Hayward Bridge, the Antioch Bridge, and the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge.
The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic and beautiful structure, and crossing the bridge can make for an enjoyable experience. Knowing the cost of crossing the bridge can help you plan your trip accordingly.
What Are The Different Cost Options For Crossing The Golden Gate Bridge?
The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States. Spanning the iconic San Francisco Bay, the bridge is a major transportation route for commuters and visitors alike. But when it comes to crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, how much does it cost? There are a few different options to consider when it comes to the cost of crossing the Golden Gate Bridge.
The first and most basic option is the bridge toll. The bridge toll is a set fee for crossing the bridge. It’s the same fee for all vehicles, regardless of size or type. As of 2021, the bridge toll is $7.00 for cars, motorcycles, and buses, and $4.00 for bicycles and pedestrians. Tolls can be paid either in cash or electronically.
Another option is the FasTrak. This is an electronic payment system that allows travelers to pay their bridge tolls in advance. By registering for FasTrak, travelers can save money on their bridge tolls by paying a discounted rate. The discounted rate varies depending on the type of vehicle and the number of times the bridge is crossed. FasTrak members also get access to carpool lanes and discounts at bridge-related events.
For those who travel the bridge frequently, there are also monthly passes available. Monthly passes are valid for a calendar month and are only available to vehicles that are registered with the Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District. The cost of a monthly pass varies depending on the type of vehicle and the number of times it is used. Monthly passes can also be purchased online or at the bridge toll plaza.
Finally, there are also discounts available for those who qualify. Certain government and non-profit employees, as well as seniors and youth can receive discounts on their bridge tolls. Discounts are also available for those who are members of certain organizations or employers. For more information on discounts, please visit the Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District website.
| Type of Payment | Cost |
|---|---|
| Bridge Toll | $7.00 (cars, motorcycles, and buses) $4.00 (bicycles and pedestrians) |
| FasTrak | Discounted rate Access to carpool lanes and discounts at bridge-related events |
| Monthly Pass | Varies depending on the type of vehicle and number of times the bridge is crossed |
| Discounts | Available for certain groups (government and non-profit employees, seniors, youth, etc.) |
There are a variety of cost options when it comes to crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. Depending on your needs, you may find one option more suitable than another. Be sure to research each option carefully and find the one that best fits your budget and needs.
What Are The Best Ways To Save Money When Crosssing The Golden Gate Bridge?
Crossing the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most iconic views of San Francisco. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, you may find yourself needing to cross the bridge at some point. However, the cost of crossing the bridge can add up quickly. Fortunately, there are ways to save money when crossing the Golden Gate Bridge.
One of the best ways to save money when crossing the Golden Gate Bridge is to use the FasTrak system. FasTrak is an electronic toll collection system that allows drivers to pay for their tolls without having to wait in line. Drivers simply open up an account and then attach a transponder to their windshield. When drivers cross the bridge, the transponder is detected and the toll is automatically charged to their account. FasTrak users get a discounted rate of $6.45 when crossing the bridge.
Another way to save money when crossing the Golden Gate Bridge is to use the bridge’s cash payment option. Drivers who pay with cash at the toll plaza get a discounted rate of $7.75. Cash payments are accepted in exact change only, so make sure to come prepared with the right amount.
The table below summarizes the toll rates for crossing the Golden Gate Bridge:
| Payment Type | Toll Rate |
|---|---|
| FasTrak | $6.45 |
| Cash Payment | $7.75 |
You can also save money when crossing the Golden Gate Bridge by carpooling. Cars with 3 or more occupants get a discounted rate of $5.00 per crossing. Carpools can be registered with the bridge and drivers can get an access code that will allow them to access the carpool lane for free.
Finally, you can save money by taking public transportation across the bridge. San Francisco’s Golden Gate Transit bus service offers regular trips across the bridge. The fare for the bus is $3.00 per person. There are also several bike paths that allow cyclists to take a scenic route across the bridge.
By taking advantage of these money-saving options, you can make crossing the Golden Gate Bridge more affordable. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, you can find a way to save money when crossing the bridge.
The cost is $7.25 for a one-way toll for cars in cash or FasTrak.
FasTrak is the best way to pay to cross the bridge.
A two-axle vehicle toll is $7.75.
No, there are no discounts for paying with a credit card.
The cost for buses to cross the bridge is $7.25.
The cost to cross the bridge with a motorcycle is $4.25.
Yes, you can pay to cross the bridge with FasTrak after you have crossed.
Yes, there is an additional fee of $1.99 for using a credit card.
No, your FasTrak account does not expire.
Yes, senior citizens can receive a discount of $1.00 off the one-way toll.