Confederation Bridge Toll Rates Complete Guide: StraitPASS & Payment 2025
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Confederation Bridge Toll Rates Complete Guide
System: One-way toll collection (leaving PEI only)
Coverage: Trans-Canada Highway between PEI and New Brunswick
Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Technology: StraitPASS transponders, cash, credit cards
Operators: Strait Crossing Bridge Limited (SCBL)
Do I Need to Pay Confederation Bridge Tolls? 2025 Update
Yes, you must pay tolls when leaving Prince Edward Island via the Confederation Bridge - but only when departing, not when arriving. The bridge operates Canada's longest toll crossing at 12.9 kilometres (8.0 miles) over ice-covered water.
Key Reality: At $50.25 for a standard car, this represents one of Canada's highest individual toll charges. The round-trip toll applies regardless of your entry method to PEI (bridge or ferry).
2025 Update: Tolls remain frozen for the third consecutive year at 2022 rates, with Transport Canada providing subsidies to prevent inflation-based increases. Federal discussions continue regarding potential reduction to $20.
Confederation Bridge Toll Costs: Current Rates
Confederation Bridge operates an axle-based toll system with round-trip charges collected only when leaving Prince Edward Island.
Current Toll Rates by Vehicle Type (2025)
| Vehicle Type | Toll Rate (CAD) | Example Vehicles | Rate Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motorcycle | $20.00 | All motorcycles | Frozen 2023-2025 |
| 2-Axle Vehicle | $50.25 | Cars, SUVs, pickup trucks | Frozen 2023-2025 |
| 3-Axle Vehicle | $58.75 | Car + small trailer, motorhome | Base + $8.50 |
| 4-Axle Vehicle | $67.25 | Large RV, truck + trailer | Base + $17.00 |
| 5-Axle Vehicle | $75.75 | 18-wheeler, tractor-trailer | Base + $25.50 |
Pedestrian & Cyclist Services
Shuttle Service Available (6 AM - 10 PM daily):
- Pedestrians: $4.75 per person (when leaving PEI)
- Cyclists: $9.50 per person (when leaving PEI)
- Additional baggage: $4.25 per bag after first bag
How to Pay Confederation Bridge Tolls
You can use the following toll payment methods when leaving PEI:
1. StraitPASS Electronic System:
- Transponder mounted in vehicle windshield
- Faster processing through dedicated lanes
- Online account management available
- No discount - same rates as other payment methods
2. Manual Payment at Toll Plaza:
- Cash (exact change recommended)
- Interac debit cards
- All major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
- Attended toll booths at Borden-Carleton, PEI
Important: No video toll or pay-by-plate options exist. Payment must be made at the toll plaza when leaving PEI.
To calculate toll costs for cars, trucks, motorcycles and all vehicle types for Confederation Bridge, use TollGuru Canada toll calculator
Recent Changes (2025)
Federal Toll Freeze Program:
- Third consecutive year of frozen tolls (2023-2025)
- Transport Canada provides subsidies to bridge operator
- Prevents inflation-based increases that would normally occur annually
Political Developments:
- Liberal Leader Mark Carney pledges to cut tolls to $20 (April 2025)
- PEI Premier continues lobbying for toll reduction
- "Free the Bridge" campaign launched by Canadian Federation of Independent Business
Operational Updates:
- Bridge operates 24/7 with no reservations required
- Concession contract with Strait Crossing runs until 2032
- Federal government ownership after contract expiry
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Payment Timing Confusion:
- Tolls only collected when LEAVING PEI, not when entering
- Round-trip charge applies regardless of return method (bridge or ferry)
- No payment required when driving TO PEI from New Brunswick
Vehicle Classification Errors:
- Tolls based on axle count, not vehicle type or weight
- Trailers add axles - car + small trailer = 3 axles = $58.75
- RVs charged same as cars if 2 axles, regardless of size
Service Limitations:
- No discounts available for frequent users or residents
- Pedestrians and cyclists cannot cross independently
- Shuttle service has limited hours (6 AM - 10 PM)
Planning Your Journey
Cost Considerations
- Bridge toll: $50.25 for standard vehicle (round-trip when leaving PEI)
- Ferry alternative: Northumberland Ferries (Wood Islands-Caribou) - seasonal
- Travel time: 12 minutes across bridge vs. 75 minutes ferry crossing
Alternative Transportation
- Northumberland Ferries: Wood Islands, PEI ↔ Caribou, NS (seasonal)
- Ferry advantages: Scenic crossing, vehicle + passenger flat rate
- Bridge advantages: Year-round service, faster crossing, no reservations needed
When to Use Each Option
- Bridge: Winter travel, time-sensitive trips, commercial transport
- Ferry: Summer tourism, scenic experience, when service operational
- Note: Ferry service subject to mechanical issues and seasonal schedule
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I pay tolls in both directions?
No, tolls are only collected when leaving Prince Edward Island. The toll covers your round trip regardless of how you return (bridge or ferry).
Can I get a discount with StraitPASS?
No, StraitPASS offers convenience and faster processing but charges the same rates as cash or credit card payments.
What if I take the ferry to PEI and bridge back?
You pay the bridge toll when leaving via bridge, regardless of how you arrived. Ferry fares and bridge tolls are separate charges with different operators.
Are there plans to reduce tolls?
Yes, political discussions continue about reducing tolls to $20. The federal government is exploring long-term solutions while maintaining current toll freezes through 2025.
Can pedestrians and cyclists use the bridge?
No, but a shuttle service operates daily 6 AM-10 PM for $4.75 (pedestrians) or $9.50 (cyclists) when leaving PEI.
Canada vs. Neighboring Countries
| Country | Toll System | Major Tolls | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | Limited provincial systems | $50.25 (Confederation Bridge) | 4 provinces only |
| United States | State-based systems | $0.05-0.50/mile typical | Extensive networks |
| Mexico | Distance-based tolls | $2-15 USD typical sections | Major highways |
Useful Links & Resources
Official Bridge Resources:
- Confederation Bridge: confederationbridge.com - Official toll rates and crossing info
- StraitPASS: Available through bridge website
- Transport Canada: tc.canada.ca - Federal toll policy information
Alternative Transportation:
- Northumberland Ferries: ferries.ca - Wood Islands-Caribou service
- PEI Tourism: tourismpei.com - Travel planning information
- Maritime Bus: maritimebus.com - Public transportation options
Contact Information:
- Confederation Bridge Operations: 1-888-437-6565
- Emergency Services: 911
- Bridge Maintenance Reports: Available on official website
