bahamas-toll
Bahamas Toll Roads 2025: Complete Guide
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System: Bridge tolls only
Operator: The Bridge Authority
Currency: Bahamian Dollar (BSD) / US Dollar
Coverage: Paradise Island Bridge only
Technology: Smart Cards, Transponders, Cash
Do I Need to Pay Tolls in Bahamas? 2025 Update
Yes, but only if crossing from Nassau (New Providence) to Paradise Island via the Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge. The bridges are operated by The Bridge Authority, a quasi-government corporation responsible for the construction, operation and maintenance of the two bridges between New Providence and Paradise Island.
There is NO toll when returning from Paradise Island back to Nassau - tolls are only collected in one direction.
Bahamas Bridge Toll Costs: Current Rates
Bridge toll rates were last increased in May 2016 and remain current as of 2025:
Current Paradise Island Bridge Toll Rates (2025)
| Vehicle Type | Toll Rate (BSD/USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Private Vehicles | $2.00 | Per crossing to Paradise Island |
| Motorcycles | $2.00 | Same rate as cars |
| Taxi Cabs | $2.00 | Commercial rate applied |
| Commercial Vehicles Under 7ft | $2.00 | Height-based classification |
| Commercial Vehicles Over 7ft (2 axles) | $4.00 | Double standard rate |
| Commercial Vehicles (3+ axles) | $6.00 | Weight-based pricing |
| Paradise Island Employees | $1.50 | Up to 26 crossings/month |
| Resident Pass (Annual) | $500.00 | Unlimited crossings per year |
| Pedestrians & Bicycles | FREE | No charge for walking/cycling |
VAT is included in all toll amounts.
How to Pay Bahamas Bridge Tolls
The Bridge Authority accepts multiple payment methods for toll collection:
- Cash: USD and Bahamian dollars accepted at toll booths
- Smart Cards: Electronic prepaid cards carried in wallet
- Transponders: Windshield-mounted electronic devices
- PI Pass: Annual transponder for Paradise Island residents
Electronic Payment Options
Smart Cards and Transponders cost $10 for new or replacement devices. These are pay-as-you-go accounts where balances never expire. Transponders use "deploy-once" technology - once removed from windshield, they cease to work permanently.
Recent Changes (2025)
The most recent toll increase occurred on May 1, 2016, raising rates significantly across all vehicle categories. No further increases have been announced for 2025.
Both Paradise Island bridges are 70 feet above sea level at their highest points, allowing many superyachts to pass beneath depending on mast height.
Bahamas vs. Neighboring Caribbean Countries
| Country | System Type | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bahamas | Bridge toll only | $2 per crossing | Paradise Island access only |
| Jamaica | Highway tolls | Varies by distance | TransJam Highways system |
| Cuba | Limited tolls | 40-80 CUP (2025) | Matanzas-Varadero route |
Planning Your Journey
Cost Considerations
- Daily costs: $2-4 per Paradise Island visit for cars
- Return trip: Free return from Paradise Island to Nassau
- Frequent visitors: Consider $500 annual resident pass
Alternative Transportation
Ferry service operates every 30 minutes from 9am to 6pm for $5-6 per ride, providing waterfront views of Nassau Harbour. Walking across the bridge is free for pedestrians.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the bridge toll collected both ways?
No - tolls are only collected when traveling FROM Nassau TO Paradise Island. The return trip from Paradise Island back to Nassau is free.
What currency is accepted?
Both Bahamian dollars and US dollars are accepted, as the Bahamian dollar is equivalent in value to the US dollar.
Can I avoid the toll?
Yes - take the ferry service or walk across the bridge. The journey from Paradise Island to downtown Nassau takes approximately 30 minutes on foot.
What about taxi fares?
Taxi rates from Nassau airport are approximately $38 to Paradise Island plus the bridge toll. The bridge toll is typically added to taxi fares.
How often do rates change?
The last toll increase was in May 2016. There is no regular schedule for rate adjustments.
Bridge Infrastructure Details
The Bahamas has two bridges connecting New Providence and Paradise Island across Nassau Harbour. The eastern bridge (1967) is 1,560 feet long with a 15-ton weight limit. The Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge (1998) is 1,930 feet long with a 25-ton weight limit and houses the toll collection facilities.
The Bridge Authority operates 24/7 and never closes, even during tropical storms and hurricanes. Both bridges are 70 feet above sea level at their highest points.
Useful Resources
- Bridge Authority Customer Service: Visit Paradise Island Toll Plaza
- Smart Card/Transponder Applications: Available at toll plaza
- Ferry Service: Woodes Rogers Wharf, Nassau
