I-485 Express Lanes - NC Quick Pass

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The I-485 Express Lanes are dedicated express lanes between I-77 and U.S. 74 that run adjacent to the general purpose lanes on I-485 in Charlotte. These lanes allow drivers to travel more quickly, improving traffic flow and reducing congestion on the highway’s general purpose lanes.

Toll Rates

The I-485 Express Lanes’ tolls are set by the vehicle length, time of day and day of the week. Click here for the full list of toll rates.

Within the first 12 months, we expect the I-485 Express Lanes to move to dynamic pricing, meaning that prices may go up or down, depending upon the amount of traffic in the express lanes. This will regulate traffic in the express lanes to keep traffic moving.

Toll Free Travel

The following vehicles and riders qualify for toll-free travel in the I-485 Express Lanes::

Riders utilizing the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) Vanpool rideshare services.
Transit vehicles with an NC Quick Pass Transit account and properly installed NC Quick Pass Transit Sticker transponder.
First responders with a First Responder account and properly installed NC Quick Pass First Responder Sticker travel for free while responding to emergencies for law enforcement, fire, rescue and medical services.

Toll Zones

A01

485 EL IN, Westinghouse to NC 49

A02

485 EL OUT, NC 49 to Wsthouse

A03

485 EL IN, Johnston to Wsthouse

A04

485 EL OUT, Westinghouse to Johnston

A05

485 EL IN, NC 16 to Johnston

A06

485 EL OUT, Johnston to NC 16

A07

485 EL IN, E John to NC 16

A08

485 EL OUT, NC 16 to E John

A09

485 EL IN, Idlewild to E John

A10

485 EL OUT, E John to Idlewild

Vehicle Classifications

Standard Vehicle (Less than 22 feet)

Tolls shown on the I-485 Express Lanes are for two-axle vehicles or motorcycles less than 22 feet with a NC Quick Pass account.

Standard vehicles without a NC Quick Pass account will pay double the posted toll rate.

Extended Vehicle (More than 22 feet)

Tolls for two-axle vehicles 22 feet or more are two times (2x) the Standard Vehicle rate.

Two-axle vehicles with a single-axle trailer will also pay the extended vehicle rate.

Prohibited Vehicle (Vehicles with three axles or more)

Vehicles with more than two axles or a 2-axle vehicle hauling a trailer with two or more axles may not use the I-485 Express Lanes.