south-carolina-toll-roads-palmetto-pass: Difference between revisions

From Toll Wiki

← Older edit
No edit summary
No edit summary
 
(7 intermediate revisions by 3 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{DISPLAYTITLE: South Carolina Toll Roads and Palmetto Pass}}
{{DISPLAYTITLE: South Carolina Toll Roads Complete Guide: Palmetto Pass, Rates and Payment 2026}}
{{#seo:|title=South Carolina Toll Roads and Palmetto Pass}}
{{#seo:|title=South Carolina Toll Roads Complete Guide: Palmetto Pass, Rates and Payment 2026}}
{{#seo:|keywords= south carolina toll roads, palmetto pass cost, south carolina toll payment, toll roads in south carolina, sc toll roads, southern connector pay toll, south carolina toll pass, south carolina tolls, south carolina toll payment, missed toll south carolina}}
{{#seo:|keywords=South Carolina tolls, Palmetto Pass, Southern Connector, I-185, toll calculator, Greenville toll road, SCDOT Modernization Bill}}
{{#seo:|description=Know all about South Carolina tolls – SC toll roads- Southern Connector and Cross Island Parkway, toll rate, toll payment- Palmetto Pass, Pay by Plate, truck toll and more.}}
{{#seo:|description=Complete 2026 guide to South Carolina toll roads. Southern Connector rates, Palmetto Pass information, Cross Island Parkway toll-free status, pending E-ZPass interoperability bill. Calculate tolls now.}}
{{#canonics: https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/south-carolina-toll-roads-palmetto-pass}}
{{#canonics: https://tollguru.com/south-carolina-toll-roads-palmetto-pass}}
{{worldMap}}
{{worldMap}}


__TOC__
__TOC__
<div class="shadowCard">
<div class="shadowCard">
== South Carolina toll roads ==
South Carolina has toll roads along the two stretches:


1. Southern Connector<br>
<h1 style="font-size: 32px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 10px 0; border-bottom: 3px solid #a2a9b1; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-top: 0">South Carolina Toll Roads Complete Guide</h1>
2. Cross Island Parkway<br>
 
=== Southern Connector ===
<div style="background: #ffffff; border: 1px solid #dee2e6; border-radius: 8px; padding: 20px; padding-bottom:0">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="color: #202122; font-size: 16px; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6;">
<html><figure class="aligncenter text-center size-full is-resized"><img alt="Toll booth locations on Southern Connector- spur route of I-85 into Greenville of South Carolina." class="wp-image-6898" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 563px) 100vw, 563px" src="https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/images/3/3d/Southern_Connector_Toll_Map.jpg" srcset="https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/images/3/3d/Southern_Connector_Toll_Map.jpg" 1922w, "https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/images/thumb/3/3d/Southern_Connector_Toll_Map.jpg/800px-Southern_Connector_Toll_Map.jpg 768w, https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/images/thumb/3/3d/Southern_Connector_Toll_Map.jpg/320px-Southern_Connector_Toll_Map.jpg 559w width="720"/>
<strong style="font-weight: bold;">System:</strong> Very limited - one active toll road (Southern Connector, I-185); Palmetto Pass + cash + credit card<br>
<figcaption>Toll booth locations on Southern Connector</figcaption></figure></html>
<strong style="font-weight: bold;">Coverage:</strong> Southern Connector (I-185) near Greenville only<br>
<strong style="font-weight: bold;">Currency:</strong> US Dollar (USD)<br>
<strong style="font-weight: bold;">Technology:</strong> Palmetto Pass RFID transponders, staffed cash booths, credit card terminals<br>
<strong style="font-weight: bold;">Operator:</strong> Connector 2000 Association (Southern Connector concessionaire), overseen by South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT)
</div>
</div>
</div>
<h2 style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 25px 0 15px 0; border-bottom: 1px solid #a2a9b1; padding-bottom: 2px;">Do I Need a Palmetto Pass for South Carolina? 2026 Update</h2>


Southern Connector<ref>[http://www.southernconnector.com/ Southern Connector]</ref> is spur route of I-85 into Greenville. It is a shortcut route for drivers accessing I-385 from northbound I-85. 2-axles vehicles pay $1.75 tolls each at the East and West plaza. [https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/palmetto-pass PAL PASS (Palmetto pass)] users pay $1.35 toll at the East plaza and $1.50 toll at the West plaza.
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;">No. South Carolina is largely toll-free, and the only active toll road - the Southern Connector (I-185) near Greenville - accepts cash and credit card as well as Palmetto Pass.</p>


=== Cross Island Parkway ===
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;"><strong style="font-weight: bold;">Key Reality:</strong> South Carolina has one of the smallest toll networks in the United States. The Cross Island Parkway (US 278) became permanently toll-free on June 30, 2021, leaving only the 16-mile Southern Connector.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<html><figure class="aligncenter text-center size-full is-resized"><img alt="Toll booth locations on Cross Island Parkway- a toll road on Hilton Head Island joining US-278 Business road." class="wp-image-6898" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 563px) 100vw, 563px" src="https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/images/a/a4/Cross_Island_Parkway_Toll_Map.jpg" srcset="https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/images/a/a4/Cross_Island_Parkway_Toll_Map.jpg" 1922w, "https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/images/thumb/a/a4/Cross_Island_Parkway_Toll_Map.jpg/800px-Cross_Island_Parkway_Toll_Map.jpg 768w, https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/images/thumb/a/a4/Cross_Island_Parkway_Toll_Map.jpg/320px-Cross_Island_Parkway_Toll_Map.jpg 559w width="720"/>
<figcaption>Toll booth locations on Cross Island Parkway</figcaption></figure></html>
</div>


Cross Island Parkway<ref>[https://www.crossislandparkway.org/scvector/static/faq/lane.shtml Cross Island Parkway]</ref> is toll road on Hilton Head Island joining US-278 Business road. The 6.8-mile controlled-access toll road has only one interchange along its route at Marshland Drive. 2-axle vehicles pay $1.25 toll at the toll plaza and $1.00 at the Marshland Road/Spanish Wells Road interchange.
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;"><strong style="font-weight: bold;">2026 Update:</strong> The Southern Connector rates were last adjusted January 2, 2024. Palmetto Pass is currently not compatible with E-ZPass, SunPass, or other out-of-state transponders - but this may change. As of March 2026, there are active legislative discussions about South Carolina joining the E-ZPass network under a proposed SCDOT Modernization Bill; no formal implementation date has been announced. The former Cross Island toll plaza demolition project continues through 2026. No new toll roads are planned statewide.</p>


Use <strong>South Carolina Toll Calculator</strong> to calculate tolls and gas costs for both the toll roads in South Carolina.
<h2 style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 25px 0 15px 0; border-bottom: 1px solid #a2a9b1; padding-bottom: 2px;">South Carolina Toll Costs: Current Rates (2026)</h2>


<HTML>
<div style="overflow-x: auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling: touch; margin: 20px 0;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table style="width: 100%; min-width: 600px; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 16px; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; color: #202122; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6;">
<a href="https://tollguru.com/south-carolina-toll-calculator"><button type="button" class="custom-button button-orange">South Carolina Toll Calculator</button></a>
<tr>
<th style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; text-align: left; font-weight: bold; color: #ffffff !important; background: #555555 !important;">Vehicle Type</th>
<th style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; text-align: left; font-weight: bold; color: #ffffff !important; background: #555555 !important;">Axles</th>
<th style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; text-align: left; font-weight: bold; color: #ffffff !important; background: #555555 !important;">Palmetto Pass (Full Trip)</th>
<th style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; text-align: left; font-weight: bold; color: #ffffff !important; background: #555555 !important;">Cash / Credit (Full Trip)</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">Cars, Motorcycles, SUVs</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">2</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">$4.30</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">$4.50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">Small trucks, large SUVs</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">3</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">$5.95</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">$6.15</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">Medium trucks</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">4</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">$7.60</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">$7.80</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">Large trucks</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">5+</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">$9.25</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">$9.45</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>
</div>
</html>


<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;">Individual toll plaza rates: East Plaza ($1.85 Palmetto Pass / $2.00 cash) and West Plaza ($1.85 / $2.00).</p>
<p style="font-size: 14px; color: #6c757d; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;"><em>Note on the PalPass discount: historical SCDOT filings describe the PalPass discount as 25% off cash rates at the mainline plazas. The figures above imply a smaller discount (roughly 7.5% at the plaza level). This discrepancy was not resolved in this review, since the exact current rate table on [https://www.southernconnector.com/rates-palpass.html tariff] is rendered dynamically and its literal figures could not be extracted directly. If precision matters for your use case, confirm the current published discount percentage directly with Southern Connector before relying on the figures above.</em></p>
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;">To calculate toll costs for the Southern Connector and all South Carolina toll facilities, use the TollGuru South Carolina toll calculator:</p>


''Toll rates in this section might not be updated recently. Please refer to our toll & trip calculators and the Toll API for the latest toll rates. Please send us feedback if toll rates are not accurate. We will update the information immediately.''
<div style="text-align: center; margin: 20px 0;">
<html>
<a href="https://tollguru.com/south-carolina-toll-calculator"><button class="custom-button button-orange" type="button">South Carolina Toll Calculator</button></a>
</html>
</div>
</div>
<div class="shadowCard">
== How are tolls calculated for trucks in South Carolina ==


On both the South Carolina toll roads, trucks pay tolls based on the number of axles.
<h2 style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 25px 0 15px 0; border-bottom: 1px solid #a2a9b1; padding-bottom: 2px;">How to Pay South Carolina Tolls</h2>
 
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 10px 0;"><strong style="font-weight: bold;">1. Palmetto Pass (Electronic):</strong></p>
<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
<li>Small RFID sticker tag mounted to the windshield; automatically deducts toll in dedicated lanes</li>
<li>Works only on the Southern Connector - not compatible with other states' systems, though this may change under the proposed SCDOT Modernization Bill</li>
<li>Pass through at speeds of up to 70 mph in marked PalPass lanes (posted mainline plaza express-lane speed limit is 45 mph)</li>
<li>Register online at southernconnector.com</li>
<li>Automatic account deduction at dedicated Palmetto Pass lanes</li>
</ul>


Calculate tolls along the truck-compliant routes across the state of South Carolina and other regions of North America using our free Truck Toll Calculator.
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 10px 0;"><strong style="font-weight: bold;">2. Cash:</strong></p>
<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
<li>Accepted at both mainline toll plazas; exact change recommended; staffed booths available</li>
<li>Ramp plazas: unattended, exact change only, no PalPass discount at ramp locations for vehicles other than 2-axle</li>
</ul>


<HTML>
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 10px 0;"><strong style="font-weight: bold;">3. Credit Card:</strong></p>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
<a href="https://tollguru.com/truck-toll-calculator"><button type="button" class="custom-button button-orange">Truck Toll Calculator</button></a>
<li>Accepted at the mainline toll plaza only (not at ramp plazas); same rates as cash</li>
</div>
<li>AMEX, Visa, Discover, and MasterCard accepted, including debit cards processed as credit; PIN-based debit not accepted</li>
</html>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="shadowCard">
== How to pay toll in South Carolina ==


Both the toll roads are equipped with electronic gantries in South Carolina. You can pay toll by installing a [https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/palmetto-pass Palmetto Pass tag]  (popularly called PAL PASS). '''Cash is also accepted''' on both the [https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/south-carolina-toll-roads-palmetto-pass#South_Carolina_toll_roads toll roads of South Carolina].  
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;"><strong style="font-weight: bold;">Note on missed tolls:</strong> Pledge to Pay forms available if you miss payment; 30-day grace period; additional fees and a formal toll violation apply after 30 days if unresolved. There is no automated license plate billing system like most other states use.</p>


However, the Video toll payment system such as '''Pay-By-Plate doesn’t exist on either of the toll roads''' in South Carolina.
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;"><strong style="font-weight: bold;">Out-of-state visitors:</strong> Since E-ZPass, SunPass, NC Quick Pass, and Peach Pass do not currently work on the Southern Connector, cash or credit card at the mainline plaza is the simplest option if you don't have a PalPass account.</p>


</div>
<h2 style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 25px 0 15px 0; border-bottom: 1px solid #a2a9b1; padding-bottom: 2px;">Recent Changes (2026)</h2>
<div class="shadowCard">


== How to pay missed toll in South Carolina ==
<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
<li><strong style="font-weight: bold;">Cross Island Parkway (US 278):</strong> Toll-free since June 30, 2021 after bonds paid off; former toll plaza demolition ongoing through 2026; route now a standard free highway</li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: bold;">Southern Connector rates:</strong> Last adjusted January 2, 2024 with modest increases; no further changes announced for 2026</li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: bold;">Watch for - SCDOT Modernization Bill:</strong> Active legislative discussions as of March 2026 about joining the national E-ZPass network; no formal implementation date announced yet</li>
<li><strong style="font-weight: bold;">No new toll roads planned:</strong> SCDOT has no active proposals for additional toll facilities statewide as of 2026</li>
</ul>


If you already know which toll road did you travel on, please reach out to respective agency explaining your situation. Below are the contact details:
<h2 style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 25px 0 15px 0; border-bottom: 1px solid #a2a9b1; padding-bottom: 2px;">Frequently Asked Questions</h2>


<ul><li>'''Cross Island Parkway''': If you missed paying toll while traveling on Cross Island Parkway, you can get more information on your violation and pay for it here<ref>[https://www.crossislandparkway.org/scvector/static/violations/index.shtml get more information on your violation and pay for it here]</ref>. If you have further questions, please call the Cross Island Parkway Customer Service Center at 1-888-725-8655 (in state only) or 1-843-342-6718.</li><li>'''Southern Connector''': For missed toll payments on Southern Connector, you can create an account and pay violations<ref>[https://www.southernconnector.com/payment-page.html create an account and pay violations]</ref>. If you have further questions, please call Southern Connector Customer Support at (864) 527-2150 or email at violations@southernconnector.com</li></ul>
<h3 style="font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 15px 0 8px 0;">Can I use E-ZPass or other out-of-state tags in South Carolina?</h3>
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;">Not currently. Palmetto Pass operates on its own system and is not compatible with E-ZPass, SunPass, NC Quick Pass, or any other state's transponder. Cash or credit card payment is the easiest option for out-of-state visitors. A proposed SCDOT Modernization Bill under legislative discussion as of March 2026 could change this, but no implementation date has been set.</p>


</div><div class="shadowCard">
<h3 style="font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 15px 0 8px 0;">Is Palmetto Pass worth it?</h3>
== What is Palmetto Pass ==
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;">For most users, the toll savings alone are modest, and the pass only works on a single road. Regular commuters on I-185 may still benefit from the faster dedicated lane (up to 70 mph vs stopping for cash) and automatic billing convenience.</p>


Palmetto Pass all known as PAL PASS in South Carolina, is an electronic tag (like [https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/ez-pass-toll-tag E-ZPass tag]) you can install in your vehicle to pay tolls as you drive through the toll roads. You need not stop to pay toll; it gets deducted from the linked bank account.  
<h3 style="font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 15px 0 8px 0;">Can I avoid the Southern Connector?</h3>
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;">Yes. The Southern Connector is a 16-mile spur connecting I-85 and I-385 in Greenville. The parallel toll-free route via I-385 and SC-146 adds approximately 10-20 minutes.</p>


Learn [https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/palmetto-pass how Palmetto Pass works, where to purchase it and more].  
<h2 style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 25px 0 15px 0; border-bottom: 1px solid #a2a9b1; padding-bottom: 2px;">South Carolina vs. Neighbouring States (2026)</h2>


</div><div class="shadowCard">
<div style="overflow-x: auto; -webkit-overflow-scrolling: touch; margin: 20px 0;">
<table style="width: 100%; min-width: 600px; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 16px; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; color: #202122; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6;">
<tr>
<th style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; text-align: left; font-weight: bold; color: #ffffff !important; background: #555555 !important;">State</th>
<th style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; text-align: left; font-weight: bold; color: #ffffff !important; background: #555555 !important;">System</th>
<th style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; text-align: left; font-weight: bold; color: #ffffff !important; background: #555555 !important;">Tag</th>
<th style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; text-align: left; font-weight: bold; color: #ffffff !important; background: #555555 !important;">Notes</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;"><strong style="font-weight: bold;">South Carolina</strong></td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">1 toll road (Southern Connector)</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">Palmetto Pass</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">No E-ZPass (yet); cash/credit card accepted; E-ZPass join bill pending</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">[https://tollguru.com/north-carolina-toll-roads-turnpike-nc-quick-pass North Carolina]</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">100% electronic; NC Quick Pass</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">NC Quick Pass (E-ZPass/SunPass compatible)</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">50% discount on NCTA roads (Triangle/Monroe); I-77 Express Lanes use a separate 35% discount</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">[https://tollguru.com/georgia-toll-roads-express-lanes-peach-pass Georgia]</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">Express lanes only; dynamic pricing</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">Peach Pass / SunPass</td>
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">No E-ZPass; no toll roads - express lanes only</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>


== South Carolina tolling agencies ==
<h2 style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 25px 0 15px 0; border-bottom: 1px solid #a2a9b1; padding-bottom: 2px;">Useful Links &amp; Resources</h2>


Following agencies manage South Carolina toll roads. For any questions about toll rates or payment methods please get in touch with respective agency.
<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
<li>[https://tollguru.com/us-toll US Toll Guide] - Complete guide to all 37 toll states</li>
<li>[https://tollguru.com/south-carolina-toll-calculator South Carolina Toll Calculator] - Calculate Southern Connector costs</li>
<li>[https://southernconnector.com/rates-palpass.html Southern Connector - Palmetto Pass Rates] - Official current PalPass rate schedule</li>
<li>[https://southernconnector.com/rates-cash.html Southern Connector - Cash Rates] - Official current cash rate schedule</li>
<li>[https://www.scdot.org South Carolina DOT] - Highway information and Southern Connector oversight</li>
<li>Southern Connector Customer Service: (864) 527-2150 | customerservice@southernconnector.com</li>
<li>Mailing address: Connector 2000 Association, P.O. Box 408, Piedmont, SC 29673</li>
</ul>


<ul><li>South Carolina Department of Transportation<ref>[http://www.dot.state.sc.us/ South Carolina Department of Transportation]</ref></li><li>Southern connector<ref>[http://www.southernconnector.com/faqs.html Southern connector]</ref></li><li>Cross island Parkway<ref>[https://www.crossislandparkway.org/scvector/static/faq/payment.shtml Cross island Parkway]</ref></li></ul>
<div style="text-align: center; margin: 30px 0;">
<html>
<a href="https://tollguru.com/south-carolina-toll-calculator"><button class="custom-button button-orange" type="button">Calculate Your South Carolina Toll Cost</button></a>
</html>
</div>


</div>
</div>
{{tollWikiFooterTripCalculator|South Carolina}}
 
<div class="shadowCard">
<div class="shadowCard">
== See also ==
<h3 style="color: #202122; margin: 0 0 10px 0; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: center;">Found outdated content or toll information? Join us to keep toll information accurate.</h3>
<div class="row">
<div style="margin: 15px 0; text-align: center;">
    <div class="col-lg-4">
<html>
* [https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/us-toll US state tolls and toll passes]
<a href="https://tollguru.com/contact"><button class="custom-button button-orange" style="margin-right: 10px;" type="button">Report Issue</button></a>
* [https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki Worldwide tolls]
<a href="https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/index.php?title=Special:CreateAccount&returnto=home-page"><button class="custom-button button-orange" type="button">Join Contributors</button></a>
    </div>
</html>
    <div class="col-lg-4">
* [https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/north-carolina-toll-roads-turnpike-nc-quick-pass North Carolina tolls]
* [https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/georgia-toll-roads-express-lanes-peach-pass Georgia tolls]
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>


== References ==
<references />
</div>
</div>
[[Category: US tolls]]
[[Category: Tolling system of the world]]

Latest revision as of 12:18, 13 August 2026


Click on the map to open toll wiki for a country/state

South Carolina Toll Roads Complete Guide

System: Very limited - one active toll road (Southern Connector, I-185); Palmetto Pass + cash + credit card
Coverage: Southern Connector (I-185) near Greenville only
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Technology: Palmetto Pass RFID transponders, staffed cash booths, credit card terminals
Operator: Connector 2000 Association (Southern Connector concessionaire), overseen by South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT)

Do I Need a Palmetto Pass for South Carolina? 2026 Update

No. South Carolina is largely toll-free, and the only active toll road - the Southern Connector (I-185) near Greenville - accepts cash and credit card as well as Palmetto Pass.

Key Reality: South Carolina has one of the smallest toll networks in the United States. The Cross Island Parkway (US 278) became permanently toll-free on June 30, 2021, leaving only the 16-mile Southern Connector.

2026 Update: The Southern Connector rates were last adjusted January 2, 2024. Palmetto Pass is currently not compatible with E-ZPass, SunPass, or other out-of-state transponders - but this may change. As of March 2026, there are active legislative discussions about South Carolina joining the E-ZPass network under a proposed SCDOT Modernization Bill; no formal implementation date has been announced. The former Cross Island toll plaza demolition project continues through 2026. No new toll roads are planned statewide.

South Carolina Toll Costs: Current Rates (2026)

Vehicle Type Axles Palmetto Pass (Full Trip) Cash / Credit (Full Trip)
Cars, Motorcycles, SUVs 2 $4.30 $4.50
Small trucks, large SUVs 3 $5.95 $6.15
Medium trucks 4 $7.60 $7.80
Large trucks 5+ $9.25 $9.45

Individual toll plaza rates: East Plaza ($1.85 Palmetto Pass / $2.00 cash) and West Plaza ($1.85 / $2.00).

Note on the PalPass discount: historical SCDOT filings describe the PalPass discount as 25% off cash rates at the mainline plazas. The figures above imply a smaller discount (roughly 7.5% at the plaza level). This discrepancy was not resolved in this review, since the exact current rate table on tariff is rendered dynamically and its literal figures could not be extracted directly. If precision matters for your use case, confirm the current published discount percentage directly with Southern Connector before relying on the figures above.

To calculate toll costs for the Southern Connector and all South Carolina toll facilities, use the TollGuru South Carolina toll calculator:

How to Pay South Carolina Tolls

1. Palmetto Pass (Electronic):

  • Small RFID sticker tag mounted to the windshield; automatically deducts toll in dedicated lanes
  • Works only on the Southern Connector - not compatible with other states' systems, though this may change under the proposed SCDOT Modernization Bill
  • Pass through at speeds of up to 70 mph in marked PalPass lanes (posted mainline plaza express-lane speed limit is 45 mph)
  • Register online at southernconnector.com
  • Automatic account deduction at dedicated Palmetto Pass lanes

2. Cash:

  • Accepted at both mainline toll plazas; exact change recommended; staffed booths available
  • Ramp plazas: unattended, exact change only, no PalPass discount at ramp locations for vehicles other than 2-axle

3. Credit Card:

  • Accepted at the mainline toll plaza only (not at ramp plazas); same rates as cash
  • AMEX, Visa, Discover, and MasterCard accepted, including debit cards processed as credit; PIN-based debit not accepted

Note on missed tolls: Pledge to Pay forms available if you miss payment; 30-day grace period; additional fees and a formal toll violation apply after 30 days if unresolved. There is no automated license plate billing system like most other states use.

Out-of-state visitors: Since E-ZPass, SunPass, NC Quick Pass, and Peach Pass do not currently work on the Southern Connector, cash or credit card at the mainline plaza is the simplest option if you don't have a PalPass account.

Recent Changes (2026)

  • Cross Island Parkway (US 278): Toll-free since June 30, 2021 after bonds paid off; former toll plaza demolition ongoing through 2026; route now a standard free highway
  • Southern Connector rates: Last adjusted January 2, 2024 with modest increases; no further changes announced for 2026
  • Watch for - SCDOT Modernization Bill: Active legislative discussions as of March 2026 about joining the national E-ZPass network; no formal implementation date announced yet
  • No new toll roads planned: SCDOT has no active proposals for additional toll facilities statewide as of 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use E-ZPass or other out-of-state tags in South Carolina?

Not currently. Palmetto Pass operates on its own system and is not compatible with E-ZPass, SunPass, NC Quick Pass, or any other state's transponder. Cash or credit card payment is the easiest option for out-of-state visitors. A proposed SCDOT Modernization Bill under legislative discussion as of March 2026 could change this, but no implementation date has been set.

Is Palmetto Pass worth it?

For most users, the toll savings alone are modest, and the pass only works on a single road. Regular commuters on I-185 may still benefit from the faster dedicated lane (up to 70 mph vs stopping for cash) and automatic billing convenience.

Can I avoid the Southern Connector?

Yes. The Southern Connector is a 16-mile spur connecting I-85 and I-385 in Greenville. The parallel toll-free route via I-385 and SC-146 adds approximately 10-20 minutes.

South Carolina vs. Neighbouring States (2026)

State System Tag Notes
South Carolina 1 toll road (Southern Connector) Palmetto Pass No E-ZPass (yet); cash/credit card accepted; E-ZPass join bill pending
North Carolina 100% electronic; NC Quick Pass NC Quick Pass (E-ZPass/SunPass compatible) 50% discount on NCTA roads (Triangle/Monroe); I-77 Express Lanes use a separate 35% discount
Georgia Express lanes only; dynamic pricing Peach Pass / SunPass No E-ZPass; no toll roads - express lanes only

Useful Links & Resources

Found outdated content or toll information? Join us to keep toll information accurate.

Retrieved from "https://toll-wiki-prd.tollguru.com/toll-wiki/index.php?title=south-carolina-toll-roads-palmetto-pass&oldid=12759"
Cookies help us deliver our services. By using our services, you agree to our use of cookies.