Difference between revisions of "panama-toll"

From Toll Wiki
 
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= Panama Toll Roads 2025: Complete Guide =
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{{DISPLAYTITLE: Panama Toll Roads Complete Guide: PanaPass, Corridors & Payment 2025}}
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{{#seo:|title=Panama Toll Roads Complete Guide: PanaPass, Corridors & Payment 2025}}
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{{#seo:|keywords=Panama tolls, PanaPass, Corredor Sur, Corredor Norte, Autopista Colon, toll calculator}}
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{{#seo:|description=Complete 2025 guide to Panama toll roads, PanaPass requirements, current rates, payment methods for Corridors and highways. Calculate tolls now.}}
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{{#canonics: https://tollguru.com/toll-wiki/panama-toll}}
 
{{worldMap}}
 
{{worldMap}}
  
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__TOC__
 
<div class="shadowCard">
 
<div class="shadowCard">
  
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<div style="background: #ffffff; border: 1px solid #dee2e6; border-radius: 8px; padding: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px;">
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<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">Panama Toll Roads Complete Guide</h1>
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<div style="color: #6c757d; font-size: 14px;">
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'''System:''' Electronic Toll Collection (PanaPass) and Cash Systems<br>
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<div style="background: #ffffff; border: 1px solid #dee2e6; border-radius: 8px; padding: 20px; padding-bottom:0">
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'''Operator:''' Empresa Nacional de Autopistas (ENA)<br>
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<div style="color: #202122; font-size: 16px; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6;">
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'''Currency:''' USD (US Dollar)<br>
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<strong style="font-weight: bold;">System:</strong> Electronic toll collection (PanaPass RFID) + Cash payments<br>
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'''Coverage:''' Panama City metropolitan area and Panama City-Colón corridor<br>
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<strong style="font-weight: bold;">Coverage:</strong> 3 toll roads (Corredor Sur, Corredor Norte, Autopista Colón)<br>
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'''Technology:''' RFID transponders, automatic gates, cameras
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<strong style="font-weight: bold;">Currency:</strong> US Dollar (USD)<br>
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<strong style="font-weight: bold;">Technology:</strong> PanaPass transponders, manual cash booths<br>
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<strong style="font-weight: bold;">Operators:</strong> ENA Corredores, Ministry of Public Works
 
</div>
 
</div>
 
</div>
 
</div>
  
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<div style="text-align: center; margin: 20px 0;">
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<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 PanaPass for Panama? 2025 Update</h2>
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[https://tollguru.com/toll-calculator-panama Calculate Panama Toll]
 
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</div>
 
  
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== Do I Need PanaPass for Panama? 2025 Update ==
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<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;">PanaPass is required for only 2 of Panama's 3 toll roads - but they're the most important ones. Corredor Sur and Corredor Norte in Panama City operate with 100% electronic tolling and no cash payment options.</p>
  
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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.
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<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> Without PanaPass, you cannot use Corredor Sur or Corredor Norte, forcing lengthy detours through congested city streets that can add 2-3 hours to airport transfers.</p>
  
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PanaPass is mandatory for Corredor Sur and Corredor Norte - no cash payments accepted. The Autopista to Colón accepts cash only ($4.50 each way).
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<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;">2025 Update:</strong> PanaPass costs $15 and must be purchased at two specific Panama City locations. Rental cars typically include PanaPass with daily fees or pay-per-use options.</p>
  
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== Panama Toll Costs: Current Rates ==
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<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;">Panama Toll Costs: Current Rates</h2>
  
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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.
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<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;">Panama operates just 3 toll roads with simple flat-rate pricing, making it one of Latin America's most straightforward toll systems.</p>
  
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=== Current Toll Rates by Location (2025) ===
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<h3 style="font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 20px 0 10px 0;">Current Toll Rates by Road (2025)</h3>
  
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<table class="toll-table">
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<table style="width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 20px 0; font-size: 16px; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; color: #202122; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6;">
 
<tr>
 
<tr>
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<th>Toll Road</th>
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<th style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; text-align: left; font-weight: bold; color: #ffffff !important; background: #555555 !important;">Toll Road</th>
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<th>Payment Method</th>
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<th style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; text-align: left; font-weight: bold; color: #ffffff !important; background: #555555 !important;">Route</th>
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<th>Typical Cost</th>
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<th style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; text-align: left; font-weight: bold; color: #ffffff !important; background: #555555 !important;">Cost per Trip</th>
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<th>Notes</th>
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<th style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; text-align: left; font-weight: bold; color: #ffffff !important; background: #555555 !important;">Payment Method</th>
 
</tr>
 
</tr>
 
<tr>
 
<tr>
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<td>Corredor Sur</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">Corredor Sur</td>
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<td>PanaPass Only</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">Tocumen Airport to Paitilla/Balboa</td>
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<td>$1.25</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">$1.25</td>
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<td>Airport to Panama City</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">PanaPass only</td>
 
</tr>
 
</tr>
 
<tr>
 
<tr>
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<td>Corredor Norte</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">Corredor Norte</td>
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<td>PanaPass Only</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">Tocumen Airport to Albrook Mall</td>
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<td>$1.25</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">$1.25</td>
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<td>Northern city bypass</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">PanaPass only</td>
 
</tr>
 
</tr>
 
<tr>
 
<tr>
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<td>Autopista Panama-Colón</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">Autopista Colón</td>
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<td>Cash Only</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">Panama City to Colón</td>
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<td>$4.50</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">$4.50</td>
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<td>Each direction, no PanaPass accepted</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">Cash only</td>
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</tr>
 
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<tr>
 
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<td>Pan-American Highway</td>
 
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<td>No Tolls</td>
 
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<td>Free</td>
 
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<td>Entire route from Costa Rica border</td>
 
 
</tr>
 
</tr>
 
</table>
 
</table>
  
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== How to Pay Panama Tolls ==
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<h3 style="font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 20px 0 10px 0;">Vehicle Classification</h3>
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<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;">All Vehicles Same Rate:</strong> Panama charges flat rates regardless of vehicle type - cars, motorcycles, buses, and trucks all pay the same toll amounts on each road.</p>
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<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 Panama Tolls</h2>
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<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;">You can use the following toll payment methods to pay toll in Panama:</p>
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<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. PanaPass Electronic System:</strong></p>
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<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
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<li>Required for Corredor Sur and Corredor Norte</li>
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<li>RFID transponder registered to vehicle license plate</li>
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<li>$15 initial cost plus toll balance</li>
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<li>Available at Albrook Mall and Atlapa Convention Center locations only</li>
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</ul>
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<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 Payment:</strong></p>
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<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
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<li>Autopista Colón only (does not accept PanaPass)</li>
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<li>$4.50 exact change recommended</li>
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<li>Manned toll booth at highway midpoint</li>
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</ul>
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<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. Rental Car Options:</strong></p>
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<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
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<li>Daily unlimited fee: $6.99/day (good for frequent use)</li>
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<li>Pay-per-use: Actual tolls + $40 administration fee</li>
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<li>Pre-installed PanaPass devices in most rental vehicles</li>
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</ul>
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 +
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 10px 0;">To calculate toll costs for cars, trucks, motorcycles and all vehicle types across Panama toll roads, use TollGuru Panama toll calculator</p>
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<div style="text-align: center; margin: 20px 0;">
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<html>
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<a href="https://tollguru.com/toll-calculator-panama"><button class="custom-button button-orange" type="button">Panama Toll Calculator</button></a>
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</html>
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</div>
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<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 (2025)</h2>
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 +
<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;">Enforcement Updates:</strong></p>
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<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
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<li>Stricter PanaPass compliance regulations introduced</li>
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<li>Increased fines for passing without sufficient balance</li>
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<li>Enhanced camera monitoring at toll gates</li>
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</ul>
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 +
<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;">Service Improvements:</strong></p>
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<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
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<li>Mobile app for PanaPass balance management</li>
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<li>Credit card auto-reload options ($20 minimum balance)</li>
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<li>Extended operating hours at purchase locations</li>
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</ul>
  
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=== PanaPass Electronic System ===
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<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;">Common Mistakes to Avoid</h2>
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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.
 
  
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* '''Recharge Options:''' Link to credit card for automatic $20 balance, or manual top-ups
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<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;">PanaPass Requirements:</strong></p>
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* '''Coverage:''' Corredor Sur and Corredor Norte only
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<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
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* '''Installation:''' Windshield sticker with RFID technology
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<li>Cannot purchase PanaPass at airport or toll gates</li>
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<li>Must visit Albrook or Atlapa locations in person</li>
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<li>Requires vehicle registration and identification</li>
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</ul>
  
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=== Cash Payments ===
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<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;">Payment Confusion:</strong></p>
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Only the Autopista to Colón accepts cash - $4.50 each direction. Other toll roads are electronic-only with automatic gates.
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<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
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<li>Autopista Colón does NOT accept PanaPass (cash only)</li>
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<li>Corridors do NOT accept cash (PanaPass only)</li>
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<li>No credit card payments available at any Panama toll</li>
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</ul>
  
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=== Rental Car Considerations ===
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<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;">Route Planning:</strong></p>
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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.
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<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
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<li>Alternative free routes through city can add 2-3 hours</li>
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<li>Corridors easily avoided if staying in western Panama</li>
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<li>Colón highway has free alternative via Madden junction</li>
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</ul>
  
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== Recent Changes (2025) ==
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<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;">Planning Your Journey</h2>
  
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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.
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<h3 style="font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 20px 0 10px 0;">Cost Considerations</h3>
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<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
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<li>Airport transfers: $2.50 total using both Corridors</li>
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<li>Cross-country to Colón: $4.50 cash</li>
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<li>Rental car fees: Choose daily ($6.99) vs. pay-per-use ($40 admin fee)</li>
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</ul>
  
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== Avoiding Toll Roads ==
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<h3 style="font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 20px 0 10px 0;">Toll-Free Alternatives</h3>
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<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
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<li>Cinta Costera: Free coastal route around Panama City</li>
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<li>Via España/Via Central: Free city streets (slower, congested)</li>
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<li>Madden junction route to Colón: Avoids Corredor Norte toll</li>
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<li>Most Panama highways: Only 3 roads nationwide have tolls</li>
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</ul>
  
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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.
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<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;">Regional Toll Information</h2>
  
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The entire Pan-American Highway from Costa Rica border to Panama City is toll-free and four-lane.
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<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;">Panama City Metropolitan Area:</strong></p>
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<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
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<li>Corredor Sur: 35km expressway connecting airport to financial district</li>
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<li>Corredor Norte: 30km route from airport to Albrook transportation hub</li>
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<li>Critical for tourists: Essential for efficient airport transfers</li>
 +
</ul>
  
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== Planning Your Journey ==
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<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;">Caribbean Coast Connection:</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>Autopista Colón: 59km expressway across isthmus</li>
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<li>Essential for: Portobelo, Gamboa, Caribbean ports</li>
 +
<li>Travel time: 1 hour vs. 3+ hours via free roads</li>
 +
</ul>
  
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=== Cost Considerations ===
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<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;">Rest of Panama:</strong></p>
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* '''Daily costs:''' $2-5 for typical city driving with tolls
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<ul style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 5px 0; padding-left: 30px;">
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* '''Airport route:''' Corredor Sur is fastest but requires PanaPass
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<li>Pan-American Highway: Completely toll-free</li>
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* '''Alternative routes:''' Free roads available but take longer
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<li>Pacific beaches: No tolls required</li>
 +
<li>Mountain regions: All roads toll-free</li>
 +
</ul>
  
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=== Regional Context ===
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<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>
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Chiriquí Province (including Boquete, David) has no toll roads. Most of Panama outside Panama City has no tolls.
 
  
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== Panama vs. Neighboring Countries ==
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<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 Panama tolls completely?</h3>
 +
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;">Yes, but with significant time penalties in Panama City (2-3 hour delays) and for Colón access (tripled travel time). Most of Panama has no tolls at all.</p>
  
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<table class="toll-table">
+
<h3 style="font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 15px 0 8px 0;">What happens if I don't have PanaPass?</h3>
 +
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;">Gates will eventually open to prevent accidents, but you'll receive fines. Recent regulations have increased penalties for non-compliance.</p>
 +
 
 +
<h3 style="font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 15px 0 8px 0;">Do motorcycles pay tolls in Panama?</h3>
 +
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;">Yes, all vehicles pay the same flat rates. Motorcycles use the same PanaPass system and pay identical amounts as cars.</p>
 +
 
 +
<h3 style="font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 15px 0 8px 0;">Where can I get PanaPass?</h3>
 +
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;">Only at two Panama City locations: near Albrook Mall (after Tribunal Electoral) and at Atlapa Convention Center. $15 cost plus initial balance required.</p>
 +
 
 +
<h3 style="font-size: 20px; font-weight: bold; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin: 15px 0 8px 0;">Do tourists get different rates?</h3>
 +
<p style="font-size: 16px; color: #202122; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 1.6; margin: 8px 0;">No, all users pay the same rates. However, rental car companies charge significant administrative fees for toll management.</p>
 +
 
 +
<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;">Panama vs. Neighboring Countries</h2>
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 +
<table style="width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 20px 0; 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;">Country</th>
 +
<th style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; text-align: left; font-weight: bold; color: #ffffff !important; background: #555555 !important;">System Type</th>
 +
<th style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; text-align: left; font-weight: bold; color: #ffffff !important; background: #555555 !important;">Typical Cost</th>
 +
<th style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; text-align: left; font-weight: bold; color: #ffffff !important; background: #555555 !important;">Coverage</th>
 +
</tr>
 
<tr>
 
<tr>
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<th>Country</th>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">Panama</td>
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<th>System Type</th>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">Flat-rate tolls</td>
−
<th>Typical Cost</th>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">$1.25-4.50</td>
−
<th>Notes</th>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">3 roads only</td>
 
</tr>
 
</tr>
 
<tr>
 
<tr>
−
<td>Panama</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">[[costa-rica-toll|Costa Rica]]</td>
−
<td>Limited Electronic + Cash</td>
+
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">Mixed toll system</td>
−
<td>$1.25-4.50</td>
+
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">Variable rates</td>
−
<td>Only in Panama City area</td>
+
<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">Limited network</td>
 
</tr>
 
</tr>
 
<tr>
 
<tr>
−
<td>Costa Rica</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">[[colombia-toll|Colombia]]</td>
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<td>Cash + QuickPass</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">Concession tolls</td>
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<td>$0.40-2.00</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">Distance-based</td>
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<td>Multiple highways, mainly Route 27</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #f5f7fa;">Major highways</td>
 
</tr>
 
</tr>
 
<tr>
 
<tr>
−
<td>Colombia</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">[[nicaragua-toll|Nicaragua]]</td>
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<td>Cash + Electronic (FlyPass)</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">Limited tolls</td>
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<td>Variable by route</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">Minimal network</td>
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<td>~150 toll roads nationwide</td>
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<td style="padding: 12px; outline: 1px solid #dee2e6; background: #ffffff;">Few roads</td>
 
</tr>
 
</tr>
 
</table>
 
</table>
  
−
== Frequently Asked Questions ==
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<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 & Resources</h2>
  
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=== Can I avoid Panama tolls completely? ===
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<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;">Official PanaPass Resources:</strong></p>
−
Yes, by using alternative routes like Avenida Domingo Díaz and avoiding Corredor Sur/Norte. The Pan-American Highway has no tolls anywhere in Panama.
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<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>ENA Corredores: ena.com.pa - Official PanaPass registration and management</li>
 +
<li>Purchase locations: Albrook (near Tribunal Electoral), Atlapa Convention Center</li>
 +
<li>Balance top-up: Delta gas stations, Rey supermarkets</li>
 +
</ul>
  
−
=== What happens if I enter a PanaPass lane without the device? ===
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<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;">Travel Planning:</strong></p>
−
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.
+
<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>Ministry of Public Works: mop.gob.pa - Road conditions and construction updates</li>
 +
<li>Panama tourism: visitpanama.com - Official travel information</li>
 +
<li>Airport transfers: Tocumen International Airport (PTY) connections</li>
 +
</ul>
  
−
=== Do tourists get different rates? ===
+
<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;">Customer Service:</strong></p>
−
No, toll rates are the same for all vehicles regardless of driver nationality.
+
<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>ENA Corredores Support: Available via WhatsApp through website</li>
 +
<li>Emergency Services: 911</li>
 +
<li>Tourist Police: 511-9260</li>
 +
</ul>
  
−
=== Where can I get PanaPass? ===
+
</div>
−
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? ===
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<div class="shadowCard">
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Yes, Corredor Sur is the fastest route from Tocumen Airport to Panama City and requires PanaPass. Alternative free routes take significantly longer.
+
<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 style="margin: 15px 0; text-align: center;">
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== Major Toll Roads & Infrastructure ==
+
<html>
−
 
+
<a href="https://tollguru.com/contact"><button class="custom-button button-orange" style="margin-right: 10px;" type="button">Report Issue</button></a>
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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.
+
<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>
−
 
+
</html>
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* '''Corredor Sur:''' 26 km, Panama City to Tocumen Airport
+
</div>
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* '''Corredor Norte:''' 30 km, Panama City to Tocumen (northern route) 
 
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* '''Autopista Panama-Colón:''' 59 km, cash-only toll road
 
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* '''Autopista La Chorrera:''' 44 km, formerly tolled, now free
 
−
 
 
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== Emergency Contacts ==
 
−
 
 
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* '''Police:''' 911
 
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* '''Tourist Police:''' 511-9260
 
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* '''Roadside Assistance:''' Contact rental car company
 
−
* '''PanaPass Customer Service:''' Contact ENA
 
−
 
 
−
<div style="text-align: center; margin: 30px 0;">
 
−
[https://tollguru.com/toll-calculator-panama Calculate Your Panama Toll Cost]
 
 
</div>
 
</div>
  
 
</div>
 
</div>

Latest revision as of 21:55, 3 July 2025



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

Panama Toll Roads Complete Guide

System: Electronic toll collection (PanaPass RFID) + Cash payments
Coverage: 3 toll roads (Corredor Sur, Corredor Norte, Autopista Colón)
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Technology: PanaPass transponders, manual cash booths
Operators: ENA Corredores, Ministry of Public Works

Do I Need PanaPass for Panama? 2025 Update

PanaPass is required for only 2 of Panama's 3 toll roads - but they're the most important ones. Corredor Sur and Corredor Norte in Panama City operate with 100% electronic tolling and no cash payment options.

Key Reality: Without PanaPass, you cannot use Corredor Sur or Corredor Norte, forcing lengthy detours through congested city streets that can add 2-3 hours to airport transfers.

2025 Update: PanaPass costs $15 and must be purchased at two specific Panama City locations. Rental cars typically include PanaPass with daily fees or pay-per-use options.

Panama Toll Costs: Current Rates

Panama operates just 3 toll roads with simple flat-rate pricing, making it one of Latin America's most straightforward toll systems.

Current Toll Rates by Road (2025)

Toll Road Route Cost per Trip Payment Method
Corredor Sur Tocumen Airport to Paitilla/Balboa $1.25 PanaPass only
Corredor Norte Tocumen Airport to Albrook Mall $1.25 PanaPass only
Autopista Colón Panama City to Colón $4.50 Cash only

Vehicle Classification

All Vehicles Same Rate: Panama charges flat rates regardless of vehicle type - cars, motorcycles, buses, and trucks all pay the same toll amounts on each road.

How to Pay Panama Tolls

You can use the following toll payment methods to pay toll in Panama:

1. PanaPass Electronic System:

  • Required for Corredor Sur and Corredor Norte
  • RFID transponder registered to vehicle license plate
  • $15 initial cost plus toll balance
  • Available at Albrook Mall and Atlapa Convention Center locations only

2. Cash Payment:

  • Autopista Colón only (does not accept PanaPass)
  • $4.50 exact change recommended
  • Manned toll booth at highway midpoint

3. Rental Car Options:

  • Daily unlimited fee: $6.99/day (good for frequent use)
  • Pay-per-use: Actual tolls + $40 administration fee
  • Pre-installed PanaPass devices in most rental vehicles

To calculate toll costs for cars, trucks, motorcycles and all vehicle types across Panama toll roads, use TollGuru Panama toll calculator

Recent Changes (2025)

Enforcement Updates:

  • Stricter PanaPass compliance regulations introduced
  • Increased fines for passing without sufficient balance
  • Enhanced camera monitoring at toll gates

Service Improvements:

  • Mobile app for PanaPass balance management
  • Credit card auto-reload options ($20 minimum balance)
  • Extended operating hours at purchase locations

Common Mistakes to Avoid

PanaPass Requirements:

  • Cannot purchase PanaPass at airport or toll gates
  • Must visit Albrook or Atlapa locations in person
  • Requires vehicle registration and identification

Payment Confusion:

  • Autopista Colón does NOT accept PanaPass (cash only)
  • Corridors do NOT accept cash (PanaPass only)
  • No credit card payments available at any Panama toll

Route Planning:

  • Alternative free routes through city can add 2-3 hours
  • Corridors easily avoided if staying in western Panama
  • Colón highway has free alternative via Madden junction

Planning Your Journey

Cost Considerations

  • Airport transfers: $2.50 total using both Corridors
  • Cross-country to Colón: $4.50 cash
  • Rental car fees: Choose daily ($6.99) vs. pay-per-use ($40 admin fee)

Toll-Free Alternatives

  • Cinta Costera: Free coastal route around Panama City
  • Via España/Via Central: Free city streets (slower, congested)
  • Madden junction route to Colón: Avoids Corredor Norte toll
  • Most Panama highways: Only 3 roads nationwide have tolls

Regional Toll Information

Panama City Metropolitan Area:

  • Corredor Sur: 35km expressway connecting airport to financial district
  • Corredor Norte: 30km route from airport to Albrook transportation hub
  • Critical for tourists: Essential for efficient airport transfers

Caribbean Coast Connection:

  • Autopista Colón: 59km expressway across isthmus
  • Essential for: Portobelo, Gamboa, Caribbean ports
  • Travel time: 1 hour vs. 3+ hours via free roads

Rest of Panama:

  • Pan-American Highway: Completely toll-free
  • Pacific beaches: No tolls required
  • Mountain regions: All roads toll-free

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I avoid Panama tolls completely?

Yes, but with significant time penalties in Panama City (2-3 hour delays) and for Colón access (tripled travel time). Most of Panama has no tolls at all.

What happens if I don't have PanaPass?

Gates will eventually open to prevent accidents, but you'll receive fines. Recent regulations have increased penalties for non-compliance.

Do motorcycles pay tolls in Panama?

Yes, all vehicles pay the same flat rates. Motorcycles use the same PanaPass system and pay identical amounts as cars.

Where can I get PanaPass?

Only at two Panama City locations: near Albrook Mall (after Tribunal Electoral) and at Atlapa Convention Center. $15 cost plus initial balance required.

Do tourists get different rates?

No, all users pay the same rates. However, rental car companies charge significant administrative fees for toll management.

Panama vs. Neighboring Countries

Country System Type Typical Cost Coverage
Panama Flat-rate tolls $1.25-4.50 3 roads only
Costa Rica Mixed toll system Variable rates Limited network
Colombia Concession tolls Distance-based Major highways
Nicaragua Limited tolls Minimal network Few roads

Useful Links & Resources

Official PanaPass Resources:

  • ENA Corredores: ena.com.pa - Official PanaPass registration and management
  • Purchase locations: Albrook (near Tribunal Electoral), Atlapa Convention Center
  • Balance top-up: Delta gas stations, Rey supermarkets

Travel Planning:

  • Ministry of Public Works: mop.gob.pa - Road conditions and construction updates
  • Panama tourism: visitpanama.com - Official travel information
  • Airport transfers: Tocumen International Airport (PTY) connections

Customer Service:

  • ENA Corredores Support: Available via WhatsApp through website
  • Emergency Services: 911
  • Tourist Police: 511-9260

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

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