Kentucky E-ZPass pay tolls through the RiverLink system, which covers the Ohio River bridges between Louisville, Kentucky and Southern Indiana. Drivers can use a transponder, pay by plate online, or call the customer service center at 1-855-748-5465. The system charges lower rates for E-ZPass users than for drivers without an account. This page covers every payment method, toll rate, bridge location, account rule, and customer service option for Kentucky toll roads in 2026.
How Kentucky E-ZPass Pay Tolls Works in 2026
Kentucky E-ZPass pay tolls through an electronic system that reads a small device on your windshield. The system then charges your prepaid account. Drivers without a transponder get a picture of their license plate. The system mails a bill to the car’s registered owner. This process runs 24 hours a day on three bridges over the Ohio River.
RiverLink works with the E-ZPass network. EZPass is a group Complete Florida Pay By Plate of 19 states that share toll technology. A Kentucky E-ZPass transponder works in New York, Illinois, Maryland, Virginia, and other member states. Drivers from those states can also use their transponder in Kentucky.
RiverLink Toll System: The Official Backbone
RiverLink is the name of the toll system that runs Kentucky toll collection. The system belongs to the Indiana Finance Authority and the Kentucky Public Transportation Infrastructure Authority. The two states share ownership of the bridges and split the toll revenue.
The system uses overhead structures called gantries. Cameras Florida Payment Login and radio sensors sit on each gantry. When a car drives under a gantry, the system tries to read an E-ZPass transponder first. If no transponder is found, the camera takes a picture of the license plate.
RiverLink has no toll booths. Drivers do not stop or slow down to pay. Cash is not accepted on any Kentucky toll road. The system accepts payment only through a prepaid E-ZPass account, a registered Pay-by-Plate account, or a mailed invoice.
The Three Toll Bridges in Louisville
Kentucky has three toll bridges in the Louisville area. official payment portalEach bridge has its own gantry and toll rate. The bridges connect Kentucky to Indiana across the Ohio River.
Abraham Lincoln Bridge (I-65 North)
The Abraham Lincoln Bridge carries I-65 North into Indiana. It opened in October 2015. The bridge has six lanes and handles about 120,000 cars per day. The transponder rate for a standard two-axle car is $2.40. The pay-by-plate rate for the same car is $4.80.
John F. Kennedy Memorial Bridge (I-65 South)
The John F. Kennedy Memorial Bridge carries I-65 South into Kentucky. It opened in 1963 and was rebuilt as part of the 2016 project. The bridge also has six lanes and serves about 90,000 cars per day. Toll rates match the Lincoln Bridge rates for the same direction.
Lewis and Clark Bridge (East End Crossing)
The Lewis and Clark Bridge connects the Gene Snyder Freeway in Kentucky to the Lee Hamilton Highway in Indiana. It carries State Road 265 and KY 841. The bridge opened in December 2016. It has four lanes and serves about 40,000 cars per day. The transponder rate is $1.68 for a two-axle car. The pay-by-plate rate is $3.36.
Toll Rates for 2026
RiverLink sets toll rates based on vehicle size and payment method. E-ZPass transponder users always pay the lowest rate. Registered Pay-by-Plate users pay a higher rate. Drivers who get a bill in the mail pay the highest rate.
| Vehicle Type | EZPass Rate | Pay-by-Plate Rate | Mailed Invoice Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-axle car | $2.40 | $4.80 | $5.60 |
| 3-axle vehicle | $3.60 | $7.20 | $8.40 |
| 4-axle vehicle | $4.80 | $9.60 | $11.20 |
| 5-axle vehicle | $6.00 | $12.00 | $14.00 |
| 6+ axle vehicle | $7.20 | $14.40 | $16.80 |
Motorcycles pay the same as a two-axle car. Motorhomes pay based on axle count. Rental cars pay the same rates as personal vehicles, but the rental company may add a daily surcharge.
How to Get an E-ZPass in Kentucky
Kentucky drivers have four ways to get an E-ZPass transponder. Each method has different costs and wait times.
Online Application
The fastest way to get a Kentucky EZPass is through the RiverLink website at riverlink.com. The site lets you open an account, register your car, and order a transponder. The first transponder costs $15.95. The starter balance is $20. Shipping takes 7 to 10 business days. There is no charge for the shipping itself.
Phone Application
Drivers can call 1-855-748-5465 to open an account. The customer service team is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Time. Saturday hours run from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The agent will take your vehicle details and payment information over the phone. The transponder ships to your home in 7 to 10 days.
In-Person Application
RiverLink runs customer service centers in both states. The Indiana center is at 401 Spring Street in Jeffersonville. The Kentucky center is at 7525 National Turnpike in Louisville. Both centers are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time. You walk out with a transponder the same day.
Retail Starter Kit
RiverLink sells starter kits at retail stores in Kentucky and Indiana. official website Kroger, Speedway, Thorntons, and Circle K locations carry the kits. Each kit costs $20. The kit includes a sticker transponder and a $20 balance. There is no monthly fee. You must register the kit online within 30 days or face a $1.50 fee per manual reload.
Types of E-ZPass Transponders
RiverLink offers two main transponder types. Each type works for different driving habits.
Sticker Transponder
The sticker transponder is a thin adhesive tag that sticks to the inside of your windshield. It costs $15.95 when bought online or $20 at a retail store. The sticker works only on Kentucky and Indiana toll roads. It does not work in other EZPass states. The sticker has no battery and cannot be moved between cars.
Hard-Case Transponder
The hard-case transponder is a portable device that sits in a mount on your windshield. It costs $25.95. The hard case works in all 19 E-ZPass states. You can move it between cars. The device has a small battery that lasts about 5 to 7 years. When the battery dies, you can swap the unit at a customer service center for $15.95.
Which Transponder to Choose
Drivers who only cross the Ohio River bridges should pick the sticker transponder. It costs less and works for local travel. Drivers who travel to other states for work or vacation should pick the hard-case transponder. The extra cost pays for itself through the lower E-ZPass rates in other states.
Setting Up Your E-ZPass Account
An E-ZPass account holds your personal details, vehicle list, and payment method. The account balance pays for your tolls. You need an account before you can use a transponder or pay by plate.
Required Account Information
You need the following details to open an account:
- Full name and address
- Phone number and email
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number, make, and model of each car
- Credit card, debit card, or bank account number
Choosing a Payment Method
RiverLink accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express credit cards. The system also accepts debit cards and direct bank transfers. Cash is not accepted for online or phone payments. You can pay cash at the customer service centers.
Account Types
RiverLink offers three account types:
- Personal Account: For individual drivers with 1 to 4 cars
- Business Account: For companies with 5 or more vehicles
- Motorcycle Account: A personal account with a motorcycle listed
Personal accounts are free. Business accounts cost $15 per month plus $1 per vehicle per month. Motorcycle accounts are free but require a motorcycle license plate on file.
How to Add Money to Your Account
Your E-ZPass account balance pays for your tolls. You must keep the balance above zero. The system gives you four ways to add money.
Auto-Replenishment
Auto-replenishment adds money to your account when the balance drops below a set amount. The default trigger is $10. When the balance hits $10, the system charges your payment method. The default refill amount is $25. You can change both numbers in your account settings.
Auto-replenishment saves you from getting a low balance notice. It also keeps your account in good standing. Drivers with auto-replenishment never miss a toll charge. The system processes the refill within 30 minutes during business hours.
Manual Online Payment
Log in to riverlink.com and click “Add Funds.” Enter the amount and confirm the payment. The money posts to your account within 15 minutes. There is no fee for online payments.
Phone Payment
Call 1-855-748-5465 and choose the payment option. An automated system takes your payment details. The money posts to your account within 30 minutes. There is no fee for phone payments.
In-Person Payment
Visit a customer service center and pay at the counter. The center accepts cash, checks, credit cards, and debit cards. The money posts to your account right away.
Pay-by-Plate Account Option
Drivers can pay Kentucky tolls without a transponder. A Pay-by-Plate account links your license plate to a payment method. When you cross a toll bridge, the system reads your plate. The system then charges the toll to your account. Pay-by-Plate accounts cost the same as transponder accounts. The toll rate is higher than the transponder rate. Pay-by-Plate works well for drivers who rent cars often. It also works for drivers who switch cars. The downside is the higher toll rate. The higher rate covers the cost of running the license plate cameras.
Pay Kentucky Tolls by Mail (Toll Invoice)
Drivers with no EZPass account and no Pay-by-Plate account get a bill in the mail. The camera takes a picture of the license plate. The system looks up the plate in the state DMV database. The system then mails an invoice to the registered owner. The mailed invoice costs the most. The rate is $5.60 for a two-axle car. The invoice includes a $1.80 processing fee on top of the pay-by-plate rate. The fee covers the cost of mailing and processing the paper bill. You have 30 days to pay the invoice. You can pay online at riverlink.com, by phone, or by mail. If you do not pay within 30 days, the invoice becomes a violation. The violation adds a $25 late fee per toll.
Paying Tolls Online Without an E-ZPass
Drivers can pay a toll online without an EZPass account. Go to riverlink.com and click “Pay Invoice.” Enter the invoice number and license plate number. The system shows the toll amount and lets you pay with a credit or debit card. The payment posts within 24 hours.
This option works for visitors and one-time drivers. official website You do not need to create an account. You can pay past tolls and current tolls the same way. The online payment portal accepts all major credit cards.
Kentucky E-ZPass Mobile App
RiverLink has a mobile app for iPhone and Android. The app lets you check your balance, add funds, view trip history, and update vehicle details. You can also use the app to pay a missed toll or a violation. The app sends push alerts for low balance, auto-replenishment, and new statements. The app uses fingerprint or face ID login for security. The app is free to download. There are no in-app purchases or fees.
Search for “RiverLink” in the App Store or Google Play. The app has a 4.2-star rating in the App Store and a 3.9-star rating in Google Play. The app is made by Conduent, the company that runs the RiverLink system.
E-ZPass Interoperability Across States
RiverLink works with 19 EZPass states. A Kentucky transponder works in any of those states. The 19 states cover most of the East Coast and Midwest. The states include:
- Delaware
- Florida
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Virginia
- West Virginia
The system also works with the Central United States Interoperability Hub. This hub lets E-ZPass work in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. The full list grows each year as more states join.
Out-of-State E-ZPass Use in Kentucky
Drivers from other E-ZPass states can use their transponder in Kentucky. The system charges the toll to the driver’s home account. The Kentucky toll rate is the standard E-ZPass rate. The rate matches what Kentucky drivers pay. Out-of-state drivers get the same benefits as Kentucky drivers. The transponder discount applies. The driver does not need a separate Kentucky account. The home state sends the monthly statement with the Kentucky toll listed.
Rental Cars and Visitors
Visitors and rental car drivers have several options for paying Kentucky tolls. Most rental car companies offer their own toll programs. The programs charge a daily fee plus the toll amount. The fee is usually $3 to $5 per day. Visitors can also buy a retail starter kit at a local store. The kit works for the length of the visit. The visitor can return the transponder at the end of the trip for a refund of the remaining balance. The refund request takes 30 days to process.
Business and Fleet Accounts
Companies with 5 or more vehicles can open a fleet account. Fleet accounts cost $15 per month plus $1 per vehicle per month. The account includes a detailed report of every toll. The report shows the date, time, location, and amount for each toll. Fleet accounts also include a dedicated account manager. The manager helps with vehicle changes, billing questions, and tax reports. The manager can also set up custom reports for expense tracking. Business owners can deduct tolls as a business expense. The IRS allows tolls as a deduction for business use. The monthly statement from RiverLink serves as proof for the deduction. Keep the statement with your tax records for at least 3 years.
Military and Government Accounts
Active-duty military members can get a discount on Kentucky tolls. The discount is 50% off the transponder rate. The driver must show military ID at a customer service center. The discount applies to personal vehicles only. Military vehicles on official duty do not pay tolls. Government vehicles from Kentucky, Indiana, and federal agencies do not pay tolls. The agencies have special accounts that waive the toll charge. The driver must list the government plate in the agency account.
E-ZPass Account Login and Online Portal
The RiverLink online portal is the main tool for account management. Drivers can log in at riverlink.com. The login needs a username and password. The username is the email address on file. The password is set during account creation.
The portal lets you:
- Check account balance
- Add funds
- View trip history
- Update vehicle list
- Change payment method
- Download monthly statements
- Pay a missed toll
- Dispute a charge
- Update contact details
- Close the account
The portal is available 24 hours a day. There is no scheduled downtime. The portal works on desktop, tablet, and mobile browsers.
Kentucky Toll Roads Map and Locations
Kentucky has three toll roads. official websiteAll three are in the Louisville area. The state does not have any other toll roads at this time. The map below shows the location of each bridge. The Lewis and Clark Bridge sits about 8 miles east of downtown. The bridge connects the Gene Snyder Freeway in Kentucky to the Lee Hamilton Highway in Indiana. The bridge is part of SR 265 and KY 841.
Toll Booth Locations and Gantries
RiverLink has no toll booths. The system uses overhead gantries instead. Each gantry has cameras, sensors, and lights. The gantry reads the transponder or license plate as the car drives under it at full speed. The gantries sit on the Indiana side of each bridge. The location keeps the system away from heavy traffic in downtown Louisville. The gantries are on steel frames that span the full width of the road.
Kentucky Toll Payment Methods Accepted
RiverLink accepts the following payment methods:
- Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, Amex)
- Debit card
- Bank account (ACH transfer)
- Cash (at customer service centers only)
- Check (at customer service centers only)
- Money order (at customer service centers only)
The system does not accept Apple Pay, Google Pay, or PayPal. The system does not accept cryptocurrency. The system does not accept prepaid debit cards issued by non-bank companies.
Toll Payment Deadline and Grace Period
Kentucky tolls charge to your account the moment you cross the bridge. Indiana Pay Toll Drivers with E-ZPass or Pay-by-Plate accounts do not have a deadline. The toll comes out of the balance right away. Drivers who get a mailed invoice have 30 days to pay. The deadline is on the front of the invoice. The grace period does not apply to violations. Violations have a 14-day window before late fees apply. If you pay the invoice within 7 days, the system waives the $1.80 processing fee. The early payment discount applies to mailed invoices only. Online payments do not have a processing fee.
Kentucky Toll Violations and Fines
A violation happens when a driver crosses a toll bridge without a valid account or payment. The system sends a violation notice by mail. The notice includes a $25 late fee per toll. The fee is on top of the toll amount. The violation notice gives the driver 14 days to pay or dispute. If the driver does nothing, the violation goes to collections. The state may also suspend the car’s registration. The driver cannot renew the registration until the violation is paid.
causes of violations:
- No E-ZPass account
- Empty E-ZPass account with auto-replenishment off
- Expired credit card on file
- License plate not registered to the account
- Transponder mounted wrong
- Transponder broken or dead
How to Dispute a Kentucky Toll Charge
Drivers have the right to dispute any toll charge. The dispute must be filed within 60 days of the charge. The dispute can be filed online, by phone, by mail, or in person.
The dispute form asks for:
- Name and contact details
- Account number or invoice number
- Date and time of the toll
- Reason for the dispute
- Supporting documents (photos, receipts)
Reasons for Disputing a Toll
The most common dispute reasons are:
- Transponder did not read (driver was charged pay-by-plate rate)
- Car was in the account but charge went to invoice
- Duplicate charge for the same crossing
- Wrong toll amount charged
- Vehicle was sold before the charge date
- Driver has a valid transponder that was not mounted
E-ZPass Replacement and Lost Transponder
Lost or stolen transponders can be replaced. Call 1-855-748-5465 to report the lost unit. The system deactivates the old transponder. The system then sends a replacement to your home. The replacement costs $15.95 for a sticker and $25.95 for a hard case. There is no charge to deactivate a lost transponder. The balance on the old transponder transfers to the new one. The transfer happens within 24 hours. The system does not refund the cost of the original transponder.
Damaged transponders can be swapped at a customer service center. The swap is free if the damage is from normal use. The swap costs $15.95 if the damage is from an accident or misuse. The system checks the transponder before issuing a free swap.
E-ZPass Account Closure and Refund
Drivers can close their EZPass account at any time. The closure request can be made online, by phone, or in person. The system charges all pending tolls before closing the account. The system then refunds the remaining balance. Refunds go back to the original payment method. Credit card refunds take 5 to 7 business days. Bank account refunds take 7 to 10 business days. Cash refunds at the customer service center are instant. There is no fee to close the account. The system does not charge a closure fee. The system does not require a minimum balance to close. Drivers with a $0 balance can close the account without action.
E-ZPass Statements and Trip History
RiverLink sends a monthly statement to every active account. The statement lists every toll from the previous month. The statement shows the date, time, bridge, and amount for each toll. The statement also shows the account balance and any auto-replenishment charges. Drivers can view the statement online at any time. The online statement is available for 12 months. Drivers can download the statement as a PDF. The PDF works for expense reports and tax records. Drivers can also view the trip history for any date range. The trip history shows the full list of crossings. The history includes the gantry location, lane number, and transponder ID. The history helps with dispute cases.
Kentucky Toll Cost Comparison: E-ZPass vs Pay-by-Plate
E-ZPass is the cheapest way to pay Kentucky tolls. The savings add up fast for daily commuters. The table below shows the cost for a driver who crosses the Abraham Lincoln Bridge twice a day, 20 days per month.
| Payment Method | Cost per Crossing | Monthly Cost (40 trips) | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-ZPass Transponder | $2.40 | $96.00 | $1,152.00 |
| Pay-by-Plate Account | $4.80 | $192.00 | $2,304.00 |
| Mailed Invoice | $5.60 | $224.00 | $2,688.00 |
An EZPass user saves $1,536 per year compared to a mailed invoice user. The savings pay for the $15.95 transponder in the first month. The savings grow over time.
Cheapest Route Through Louisville Tolls
The cheapest route through Louisville depends on where you start and end. The system charges the same rate for the Lincoln Bridge and Kennedy Bridge. The Lewis and Clark Bridge has a lower rate but takes a longer route. For trips between downtown Louisville and downtown Jeffersonville, use the Lincoln Bridge (north) or Kennedy Bridge (south). The route is direct and short. The toll is $2.40 with EZPass. For trips between eastern Jefferson County and Floyd County, use the Lewis and Clark Bridge. The route avoids downtown traffic. The toll is $1.68 with E-ZPass.
For trips between southern Indiana and southern Kentucky, use the Lewis and Clark Bridge. The route connects to I-65 on both sides. The toll is $1.68 with E-ZPass.
Toll Cost Saving Tips for Kentucky Drivers
Kentucky drivers can save money on tolls with these tips:
- Use an E-ZPass transponder for the lowest rate
- Set up auto-replenishment to avoid pay-by-plate charges
- Pay mailed invoices within 7 days to skip the processing fee
- Update your license plate in the account after a car sale
- Check the account balance before long trips
- Mount the transponder the right way to avoid misreads
- Use the Lewis and Clark Bridge for shorter toll rates when possible
- Join a business account for fleet discounts
- Download the mobile app for free balance alerts
E-ZPass Mobile App Features
The RiverLink mobile app has these features:
- Real-time balance check
- Add funds from a phone
- Trip history for the last 90 days
- Low balance alerts
- Auto-replenishment status
- Vehicle list management
- Map of toll locations
- Direct dial to customer service
- Biometric login (fingerprint, face ID)
- Statement download
E-ZPass Email Notifications and Alerts
RiverLink sends email alerts for the following events:
- Low balance warning (balance below $10)
- Auto-replenishment charge
- New monthly statement
- Payment method expiring soon
- Account login from a new device
- Violation notice
- Dispute status update
- Refund processed
Drivers can turn off marketing emails but not account alerts. official portal Account alerts are required for account security. Drivers should keep their email address current in the account settings.
E-ZPass Safety and Security Features
The RiverLink system has these security features:
- 256-bit SSL encryption on the website and app
- Two-factor authentication for account login (optional)
- Fraud detection on auto-replenishment charges
- Account lockout after 5 failed login attempts
- Real-time monitoring of unusual account activity
- PCI-compliant payment processing
- No storage of full credit card numbers on the system
- Encrypted data transmission between gantries and the main system
- Kentucky Toll History and Background
Kentucky has a long history with toll roads. The state had many toll roads in the 1800s and early 1900s. Most of the old toll roads became free public roads by the 1960s. The state had no toll roads for 50 years before the Ohio River Bridges Project. The Ohio River Bridges Project started in 2003. The project aimed to reduce traffic on the existing Kennedy Bridge. The project also aimed to connect the gene Snyder Freeway in Kentucky to the Lee Hamilton Highway in Indiana. The two states approved the project in 2012. Construction started in 2014. The project opened in 2016.
The total project cost was $2.3 billion. The federal government paid $1 billion. Kentucky paid $600 million. Indiana paid $700 million. The tolls pay back the state portions over 30 years.
Future of Kentucky Tolling
Kentucky has no plans for new toll roads in 2026. The state studies the option of adding tolls to I-75 and I-71 in northern Kentucky. The studies are part of a federal pilot program. The pilot would test tolls on interstates to fund road repairs. The state also studies the option of adding tolls to the Brent Spence Bridge. The bridge connects Covington, Kentucky to Cincinnati, Ohio. The bridge is old and needs replacement. The new bridge would cost $2.6 billion. Tolls would help fund the project. No new tolls are expected before 2027. The state would need approval from the federal government and the state legislature. The state would also need to run a public comment period.
E-ZPass Versus Toll by Mail: Full Comparison
| Feature | E-ZPass Transponder | Pay-by-Plate Account | Toll by Mail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per toll (2-axle) | $2.40 | $4.80 | $5.60 |
| Account fee | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Transponder cost | $15.95 to $25.95 | $0 | $0 |
| Setup time | 7 to 10 days | Same day | None |
| Works in other states | Yes (19 states) | No | No |
| Auto-replenishment | Yes | Yes | No |
| Monthly statement | Yes | Yes | No (invoice only) |
| Late fee risk | None | None | $25 per toll |
| Best for | Daily commuters | Occasional drivers | Rare visitors |
Mistakes Kentucky Drivers Make
These mistakes cost Kentucky drivers the most money:
- Driving without an E-ZPass account
- Forgetting to update the license plate after a car sale
- Letting the credit card on file expire
- Mounting the transponder behind window tint
- Putting the transponder in the glove box
- Ignoring a mailed invoice until it becomes a violation
- Using the wrong account for a rental car
- Setting the auto-replenishment trigger too low
- Forgetting to register a retail starter kit online
How to Mount Your E-ZPass Transponder
Correct mounting is key for reliable reads. Follow these steps:
- Clean the inside of the windshield with glass cleaner
- Pick a spot 1 to 2 inches below the rearview mirror mount
- Pick a spot on the passenger side of the mirror
- Avoid window tint strips at the top of the windshield
- Peel the backing off the sticker transponder
- Press the transponder firmly against the glass for 30 seconds
- For hard-case transponders, attach the mount to the same spot
- Snap the transponder into the mount
- Wait 24 hours before driving through a toll gantry
What to Do If Your Transponder Does Not Read
If the transponder does not read at the gantry, the system takes a picture of the license plate. The charge goes to your account as a pay-by-plate charge. The charge is higher than the transponder rate. To fix the issue, check the mounting position. The transponder may be too low, too high, or behind a tint strip. Move the transponder to the correct spot. The next crossing should use the transponder rate. If the transponder still does not read, the unit may be broken. Call customer service to test the unit. The system can check the transponder status online. The system can also ship a replacement.
Kentucky Toll Customer Service
RiverLink customer service is open six days a week. The team can help with account setup, payment issues, and dispute cases. The team can also process refunds and account closures.
- Phone: 1-855-748-5465 (1-855-RIV-LINK)
- Hours: Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. ET
- Email: customerservice@riverlink.com
- Website: riverlink.com
- Indiana Center: 401 Spring Street, Jeffersonville, IN 47130
- Kentucky Center: 7525 National Turnpike, Louisville, KY 40214
- Center Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an E-ZPass cost in Kentucky?
The sticker transponder costs $15.95 when ordered online. The sticker costs $20 when bought at a retail store. The hard-case transponder costs $25.95. The account has no monthly fee. The starter balance is $20 for online accounts and $20 for retail kits. Auto-replenishment is free. The transponder is a one-time cost. The cost covers the device and shipping. There are no subscription fees. There are no per-month charges for personal accounts. Business accounts have a $15 monthly fee plus $1 per vehicle per month.1`
Drivers should budget for the transponder cost and the starter balance. The total upfront cost is $35.95 to $45.95. The cost pays for itself in the first month of use through the lower toll rate.
Can I use my out-of-state E-ZPass in Kentucky?
Yes. RiverLink accepts all E-ZPass transponders from the 19 member states. The system reads the transponder at the gantry. The system charges the toll to the driver’s home account. The rate is the standard EZPass rate. The rate matches what Kentucky drivers pay. The driver’s home state sends the monthly statement. The statement lists the Kentucky toll with the bridge name and amount. The driver pays the home state in the home currency. The home state handles the payment to RiverLink. Drivers from non-EZPass states cannot use their transponder in Kentucky. Drivers from E-ZPass states do not need a separate Kentucky account. The home account works for all E-ZPass toll roads in the United States.
What happens if I drive through a Kentucky toll without paying?
The system takes a picture of the license plate. The system looks up the plate in the state DMV database. The system then mails a toll invoice to the registered owner. The invoice is due in 30 days. If the invoice is not paid in 30 days, the system sends a violation notice. The notice adds a $25 late fee per toll. The notice is due in 14 days. If the notice is not paid, the system sends the case to collections. The state may also suspend the car’s registration. Drivers can pay the invoice online, by phone, by mail, or in person. The driver can also dispute the invoice within 60 days. The dispute must include the reason and any supporting documents.
How do I pay a Kentucky toll invoice online?
Go to riverlink.com and click “Pay Invoice” at the top of the page. Enter the invoice number and license plate number. The system shows the toll amount, processing fee, and total due. Enter the payment details and confirm the charge. The payment posts within 24 hours. The system emails a receipt to the email address on file. The receipt includes the confirmation number and toll details. Drivers can print the receipt for their records. The online portal accepts all major credit cards and debit cards. The portal does not charge a fee for online payments. The portal does not require an account login. The portal works for one-time payments and past invoices.
Does Kentucky have toll roads other than the Louisville bridges?
No. Kentucky has three toll roads, all in the Louisville area. The state has no other toll roads. The three toll roads are the Abraham Lincoln Bridge, the John F. Kennedy Memorial Bridge, and the Lewis and Clark Bridge. The Kentucky Turnpike, which ran from Louisville to Elizabethtown, became a free road in 1975. The Audubon Parkway and the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge are free roads. The state has no plans to add tolls to other roads in 2026.
Drivers in other parts of Kentucky do not need an E-ZPass account. The account only helps drivers who cross the Ohio River bridges. Drivers who do not cross the bridges can ignore the EZPass system.
Can I get a refund for my E-ZPass balance?
Yes. RiverLink refunds the full account balance when the account closes. The refund goes back to the original payment method. Credit card refunds take 5 to 7 business days. Bank account refunds take 7 to 10 business days. Cash refunds at the customer service center are instant. There is no fee to close the account. The system does not charge a closure fee. The system does not require a minimum balance to close. The system refunds the full remaining balance, even if the balance is less than $1. Drivers can close the account online, by phone, or in person. The closure request takes 24 hours to process. The system charges any pending tolls before the refund. The system sends a confirmation email when the refund is sent.
What is the difference between RiverLink and E-ZPass?
RiverLink is the toll system for the Louisville area bridges. EZPass is the electronic payment network used in 19 states. RiverLink uses E-ZPass technology to read transponders. The two work together for Kentucky tolls. Drivers open a RiverLink account to pay Kentucky tolls. The account includes a transponder that works in all EZPass states. The account balance pays for tolls in Kentucky and other EZPass states. The monthly statement lists tolls from every state.