Myanmar Toll Roads Complete Guide: Expressway Rates & Payment 2025
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Myanmar Toll Roads Complete Guide
System: Limited toll collection - Manual cash payment only
Coverage: Yangon-Mandalay Expressway (587km) - Only major tolled road
Currency: Myanmar Kyat (MMK)
Technology: Manual toll booths, cash payment, no electronic system
Operators: Ministry of Construction, Government of Myanmar
Do I Need to Pay Tolls in Myanmar? 2025 Update
No, Myanmar has very limited toll roads - only the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway charges tolls. All other highways, including the major Asian Highway network routes, are toll-free. However, if traveling between Myanmar's two largest cities, the expressway offers significant time savings.
Key Reality: Most driving in Myanmar is toll-free. The single tolled expressway reduces travel time from Yangon to Mandalay by 9+ hours compared to the old highway route.
2025 Update: Following the March 2025 earthquake, sections of the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway sustained damage, with 203 sections requiring repairs. Service has resumed with temporary restrictions in affected areas.
Myanmar Toll Costs: Current Rates
Myanmar operates a single major toll road - the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway. All other highways in the country are toll-free, making it one of Southeast Asia's most accessible road networks.
Current Toll Rates by Vehicle Class (2025)
| Vehicle Type | Full Journey (587km) | USD Equivalent | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | 4,500 MMK | $1.58 | None |
| Motorcycles | 2,250 MMK | $0.79 | Half car rate |
| Buses (Public Transport) | 22,500 MMK | $7.89 | 5x car rate |
| Trucks/Commercial | PROHIBITED | N/A | Must use old highway |
Toll Collection Points
Five Toll Stations: Yangon, Pyu, Naypyidaw, Meiktila, and Mandalay
Journey Time: 7 hours (reduced from 16 hours via old highway)
Speed Limit: 100 km/h (60 mph) throughout
How to Pay Myanmar Tolls
You can use the following toll payment methods to pay tolls in Myanmar:
1. Cash Payment (Only Option):
- Myanmar Kyat cash only - exact change recommended
- Manual toll booths at all five collection points
- No electronic payment systems available
- US Dollars not accepted at toll booths
2. Currency Exchange:
- Exchange currency in Yangon or Mandalay before travel
- Banks and licensed money changers available in major cities
- Current rate: approximately 2,850 MMK per USD (2025)
To calculate toll costs for cars, motorcycles, buses and all vehicle types across Myanmar roads, use TollGuru Myanmar toll calculator
Recent Changes (2025)
March 2025 Earthquake Impact:
- 7.7 magnitude earthquake damaged 203 sections of the expressway
- Dokhtawaddy Bridge near Inwa collapsed and is under reconstruction
- Service restored with temporary speed restrictions and detours
- Bridge repairs expected to complete by end of 2025
Infrastructure Developments:
- Government plans to widen expressway to eight lanes (long-term project)
- Safety improvements following accident concerns since 2010 opening
- Enhanced rest areas and emergency services along the route
Regional Connectivity:
- India-Myanmar-Thailand Highway construction continues despite security challenges
- 30% of trilateral highway construction remains incomplete
- Cross-border connectivity limited due to ongoing regional instability
Regional Toll Information
Yangon Region - Southern Terminal:
- Expressway entrance north of Yangon city center
- Connection to port areas and international airport
- Heavy truck restrictions during daytime hours (6 AM - 9 PM)
Naypyidaw Region - Administrative Capital:
- Mid-point toll station serving the capital city
- Connection to famous 20-lane highway within Naypyidaw
- Government and diplomatic traffic hub
Mandalay Region - Northern Terminal:
- Cultural and commercial center connections
- Gateway to northern regions and China border routes
- Major earthquake damage area - reconstruction ongoing
Planning Your Journey
Cost Considerations:
- Expressway toll: $1.58 for full journey versus 9+ hours saved
- Fuel costs: Significantly lower on expressway due to direct route
- Most highways in Myanmar: Completely toll-free
Toll-Free Alternatives:
- Old Yangon-Mandalay Highway: Toll-free but adds 9+ hours
- All Asian Highway routes (AH-1, AH-2, AH-14): Completely toll-free
- Regional and rural roads: No tolls anywhere in the country
Travel Tips:
- Carry exact change in Myanmar Kyat for toll payments
- Check current road conditions due to 2025 earthquake repairs
- Night driving not recommended due to limited lighting
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I avoid Myanmar tolls completely?
Yes, easily. Myanmar has only one tolled road - the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway. All other highways, including major routes to neighboring countries, are toll-free. The old highway between Yangon and Mandalay is also toll-free but takes 9+ hours longer.
What happens if I don't pay Myanmar tolls?
You cannot pass the toll booth without payment. Unlike electronic tolling systems, Myanmar uses manual collection where you must pay cash before the barrier opens.
Do motorcycles pay tolls in Myanmar?
Yes, motorcycles pay half the car rate (2,250 MMK or $0.79) for the full Yangon-Mandalay journey. However, motorcycles are restricted from expressways during peak hours in some areas.
Can trucks use the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway?
No, trucks are completely prohibited from the expressway. All commercial vehicles must use the old highway or other routes, which are toll-free but significantly slower.
Do tourists get different toll rates?
No, all vehicles pay the same rates regardless of driver nationality. However, tourists should ensure they have Myanmar Kyat cash as foreign currency is not accepted at toll booths.
Myanmar vs. Regional Countries
| Country | System Type | Typical Cost | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Myanmar | Manual cash only | $1.58 full journey | 1 expressway only |
| Thailand | Electronic + cash | $0.50-2.50/trip | Bangkok area + highways |
| India | Electronic + cash | $0.03-0.06/km | Extensive network |
| Laos | Limited tolls | Minimal costs | Few toll roads |
| Bangladesh | Bridge tolls mainly | $0.30-1.50/crossing | Major bridges |
Useful Links & Resources
Internal Navigation:
- Yangon-Mandalay Expressway - Complete expressway information
- Naypyidaw Highway - Capital city road connections
- Myanmar Highway Network - National road system overview
- Pay Toll Myanmar - Payment methods and procedures
- Myanmar Road Conditions - Current infrastructure status
Official Agencies:
- Ministry of Construction - Highway maintenance and toll collection
- Department of Roads - Road network planning and development
- Ministry of Transport and Communications - Transport policy and regulation
