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Latest revision as of 20:48, 1 July 2025
Panama Toll Roads 2025: Complete Guide
Click on the map to open toll wiki for a country/state
System: Electronic Toll Collection (PanaPass) and Cash Systems
Operator: Empresa Nacional de Autopistas (ENA)
Currency: USD (US Dollar)
Coverage: Panama City metropolitan area and Panama City-Colón corridor
Technology: RFID transponders, automatic gates, cameras
Do I Need PanaPass for Panama? 2025 Update
Only Panama City has toll roads requiring electronic payment systems. The vast majority of Panama, including the entire Pan-American Highway from Costa Rica to Panama City, has no tolls. The main toll roads are Corredor Sur (airport to city), Corredor Norte (northern bypass), and the Autopista to Colón.
PanaPass is mandatory for Corredor Sur and Corredor Norte - no cash payments accepted. The Autopista to Colón accepts cash only ($4.50 each way).
Panama Toll Costs: Current Rates
Toll costs are relatively low, typically around $1.25 per passage on PanaPass roads. The PanaPass device costs $15.00 and must be recharged with credit.
Current Toll Rates by Location (2025)
| Toll Road | Payment Method | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corredor Sur | PanaPass Only | $1.25 | Airport to Panama City |
| Corredor Norte | PanaPass Only | $1.25 | Northern city bypass |
| Autopista Panama-Colón | Cash Only | $4.50 | Each direction, no PanaPass accepted |
| Pan-American Highway | No Tolls | Free | Entire route from Costa Rica border |
How to Pay Panama Tolls
PanaPass Electronic System
PanaPass costs $15.00 and can be obtained at two locations in Panama City: near Albrook Mall and in front of the Atlapa Convention Center. You cannot buy PanaPass at Tocumen Airport or at toll booths.
- Recharge Options: Link to credit card for automatic $20 balance, or manual top-ups
- Coverage: Corredor Sur and Corredor Norte only
- Installation: Windshield sticker with RFID technology
Cash Payments
Only the Autopista to Colón accepts cash - $4.50 each direction. Other toll roads are electronic-only with automatic gates.
Rental Car Considerations
Many rental companies charge $6.99 per day for PanaPass usage or $40 administration fee for pay-per-use. Some rental cars may not have pre-paid PanaPass balances.
Recent Changes (2025)
The fourth bridge over the Panama Canal will be a toll bridge when completed, managed by ENA using the PanaPass system. Panama has transitioned to cashless toll collection on main city roads.
Avoiding Toll Roads
You can avoid all Panama City tolls by using Avenida Domingo Díaz (becomes Tumba Muerto), which is often more direct than Corredor Norte. Set GPS navigation to "avoid tolls" to route around PanaPass roads.
The entire Pan-American Highway from Costa Rica border to Panama City is toll-free and four-lane.
Planning Your Journey
Cost Considerations
- Daily costs: $2-5 for typical city driving with tolls
- Airport route: Corredor Sur is fastest but requires PanaPass
- Alternative routes: Free roads available but take longer
Regional Context
Chiriquí Province (including Boquete, David) has no toll roads. Most of Panama outside Panama City has no tolls.
Panama vs. Neighboring Countries
| Country | System Type | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Panama | Limited Electronic + Cash | $1.25-4.50 | Only in Panama City area |
| Costa Rica | Cash + QuickPass | $0.40-2.00 | Multiple highways, mainly Route 27 |
| Colombia | Cash + Electronic (FlyPass) | Variable by route | ~150 toll roads nationwide |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I avoid Panama tolls completely?
Yes, by using alternative routes like Avenida Domingo Díaz and avoiding Corredor Sur/Norte. The Pan-American Highway has no tolls anywhere in Panama.
What happens if I enter a PanaPass lane without the device?
You may face fines or complications. Some gates eventually open automatically, but penalties can be imposed. If you pass without sufficient balance, fines may apply.
Do tourists get different rates?
No, toll rates are the same for all vehicles regardless of driver nationality.
Where can I get PanaPass?
Only two locations: near Albrook Mall (past Tribunal Electoral) and in front of Atlapa Convention Center. Not available at Tocumen Airport.
Is the airport road a toll road?
Yes, Corredor Sur is the fastest route from Tocumen Airport to Panama City and requires PanaPass. Alternative free routes take significantly longer.
Major Toll Roads & Infrastructure
Panama's toll roads are concentrated in the capital region, with four main expressways: Corredor Sur, Corredor Norte, Autopista La Chorrera (now toll-free since 2009), and the Colón Expressway.
- Corredor Sur: 26 km, Panama City to Tocumen Airport
- Corredor Norte: 30 km, Panama City to Tocumen (northern route)
- Autopista Panama-Colón: 59 km, cash-only toll road
- Autopista La Chorrera: 44 km, formerly tolled, now free
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 911
- Tourist Police: 511-9260
- Roadside Assistance: Contact rental car company
- PanaPass Customer Service: Contact ENA
