Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge Toll Guide: IQ Tag, Rates & Payment 2025
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Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge Toll Guide
System: Electronic IQ Tag + Cash/Credit Card payment
Coverage: US-Canada border crossing connecting Michigan and Ontario
Currency: US Dollar (USD) and Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Technology: IQ Tag RFID transponders, License plate recognition
Operator: Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge Authority (IBA)
Do I Need an IQ Tag for Sault Ste. Marie Bridge? 2025 Update
No, you don't need an IQ Tag to cross the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge - but you'll save up to 35% on toll costs with frequent use. The bridge accepts cash, credit cards, and electronic IQ Tag payments for all border crossings.
Key Reality: Frequent users with IQ Tags save significantly - 35% discount for 9+ monthly crossings, making the $4.40 USD toll only $2.86 USD for regular commuters.
2025 Update: The bridge upgraded to RFID windshield tags in 2022, replacing the old card system. Current rates effective April 1, 2025, with semi-annual currency adjustments continuing.
Sault Ste. Marie Bridge Toll Costs: Current Rates
The bridge connects Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan with Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, serving as the northern terminus of Interstate 75 and the 10th busiest US-Canada border crossing.
Current Toll Rates by Vehicle Class (2025)
| Vehicle Class | US Rate (USD) | Canadian Rate (CAD) | IQ Tag Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car, Light Truck, Motorcycle | $4.40 | $6.20 | Up to 35% |
| Car + 1-Axle Trailer | $6.60 | $9.30 | Same as above |
| Car + 2-Axle Trailer | $8.80 | $12.40 | Same as above |
| Recreational Vehicle (RV) | $6.90 | $9.70 | No discount |
| Per Extra Axle (Cars) | $2.20 | $3.10 | Available |
| Per Extra Axle (RVs) | $3.45 | $4.85 | Not available |
IQ Tag Discount Structure (2025)
| Monthly Crossings | Discount Rate | USD Rate | CAD Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-4 Crossings | 10% | $3.96 | $5.58 |
| 5-8 Crossings | 20% | $3.52 | $4.96 |
| 9+ Crossings | 35% | $2.86 | $4.03 |
How to Pay Sault Ste. Marie Bridge Tolls
You can use the following toll payment methods to pay tolls on the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge:
1. IQ Tag Electronic System:
- RFID windshield tags for automatic toll collection
- Prepaid account system with automatic replenishment
- Up to 35% discount for frequent users (9+ monthly crossings)
- Available at IBA Administration Building or online
2. Manual Payment Options:
- Cash payment: US or Canadian currency (no mixed payments)
- Credit and debit cards: Accepted at toll booths
- Payment in green "All Traffic" lanes
3. Special Arrangements:
- Commercial prepaid accounts: Available for businesses
- Bridge bus service: $2 USD ($1 concession) for pedestrians
- Taxi service: Driver must have proper ID for border crossing
To calculate toll costs for cars, trucks, motorcycles and all vehicle types for the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge, use TollGuru toll calculator
Recent Changes (2025)
April 2025 Rate Updates:
- Passenger vehicle tolls increased to $4.40 USD ($6.20 CAD)
- Semi-annual currency adjustments continue based on exchange rates
- Enhanced IQ Tag discount structure for frequent users
Technology Improvements:
- RFID windshield tag system fully operational since 2022
- Old IQ Prox cards discontinued December 31, 2023
- Improved lane signage with digital canopy displays
Operational Updates:
- Bridge operates 24/7 with 4 traffic lanes, 2 commercial lanes, 1 bus lane
- Duty-free shops operational with extended summer hours
- Annual bridge walk continues as community tradition
Border Crossing Information
Location & Access:
- Connects Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan with Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
- Northern terminus of Interstate 75 (Michigan side)
- 10th busiest US-Canada border crossing for passenger traffic
- Spans St. Marys River with scenic views of Soo Locks
Required Documentation:
- Valid passport or passport card
- Enhanced driver's license (EDL)
- NEXUS, FAST, or SENTRI card
- US Military or Mariner documentation
Operating Hours & Services:
- 24/7 operation, 365 days per year
- Duty-free shopping available both sides
- Peak traffic during summer months
- Live wait times available via CBP
Planning Your Journey
Cost Considerations:
- Daily commuter costs: $2.86-4.40 USD depending on IQ Tag usage
- Tourist/occasional users: $4.40 USD ($6.20 CAD) per crossing
- RV travelers: $6.90 USD ($9.70 CAD) plus axle fees
- Annual savings with IQ Tag: $500+ for regular commuters
Wait Times & Travel Tips:
- Busiest during summer months and weekends
- Quieter crossing times: weekday mornings and late evenings
- Check live wait times via CBP before traveling
- Allow extra time for customs processing
Alternative Transportation:
- Bridge bus service: $2 USD for pedestrians
- Taxi service: Available with proper documentation
- No pedestrian walkway except during annual bridge walk
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk across the Sault Ste. Marie Bridge?
No, pedestrian access is not allowed except during the annual bridge walk event. Use the bridge bus service ($2 USD) or taxi for non-vehicle crossings.
What happens if I don't have exact change?
The bridge accepts credit and debit cards at toll booths. You can pay in either US or Canadian currency, but not mixed payments.
Do I need a passport to cross the bridge?
Yes, you need valid government-issued ID such as a passport, passport card, enhanced driver's license, or NEXUS card for all border crossings.
How much can I save with an IQ Tag?
Regular commuters save up to 35% on tolls. With 9+ monthly crossings, the toll drops from $4.40 to $2.86 USD, saving $1.54 per crossing.
Are there duty-free shops available?
Yes, duty-free shops operate on both sides of the bridge. US side (6 AM-11 PM daily), Canadian side (6 AM-midnight summer, 7 AM-11 PM winter).
Regional Border Crossings
| Border Crossing | System Type | Typical Cost | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sault Ste. Marie | IQ Tag + Cash | $4.40 USD | Michigan-Ontario |
| Canada General | Various systems | Varies by province | Nationwide |
| United States | E-ZPass + Various | $0.04-0.50/mile | Multi-state network |
Useful Links & Resources
Related Border Crossings:
- Canada Toll Roads - Provincial toll systems and border crossings
- United States Toll Roads - State toll networks and E-ZPass coverage
- Michigan Toll Roads - State-specific toll information
- Ontario Toll Roads - Provincial 407 ETR and other facilities
Official Contacts:
- International Bridge Authority: (906) 635-5255 (US) / (705) 942-4345 (Canada)
- IBA Administration: 934 Bridge Plaza, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
- IQ Tag Accounts: accounts@saultbridge.com
- Customer Service: Available 24/7 for immediate assistance
