Travel Tips

Navigating the I-15 Express Lanes

The newest 8-mile segment of the I-15 Express Lanes north of SR 56 has multiple entrances and exits. This section of the Express Lanes also features direct access ramps, new transit stations, and an upgraded FasTrak “dynamic tolling” system. Here are some simple instructions for using the lanes:

  1. As you approach the entrance, look for a large sign displaying the toll for FasTrak customers. The sign displays the minimum toll for entering the facility and the toll rate for traveling to the end of the I-15 Express Lanes. The charge varies from a minimum of $.50 to a maximum of $8.

  2. The new Express Lanes are equipped with tolling technology that is compatible with the existing system. Simply display your existing FasTrak transponder whenever you drive solo in the Express Lanes, and the system will automatically deduct the correct toll from your prepaid account.

  3. After you have passed the electronic sign, look for the break in the protective barrier that separates the regular highway lanes from the Express Lanes. Follow the pavement markings through the transition into the Express Lanes.

  4. When you are ready to exit the Express Lanes, look for another break in the barrier and follow the lane striping into the regular highway lanes. Maintain a safe speed as you merge back into traffic.

  5. Direct access ramps – another new feature – allow users to enter and exit the Express Lanes from the transit stations along I-15. The transit stations provide parking for carpoolers, vanpoolers, and transit riders.

  6. Carpool? Simply remove the transponder from your windshield and place it in the Mylar bag provided with your transponder to prevent it from being read by the system.

  7. The 8-mile segment of the I-15 Express Lanes located north of SR 56/Ted Williams Parkway operates in both directions 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The lanes feed seamlessly into the 8-mile Express Lanes south segment that runs from SR 56 to the SR 163 / I-15 split. The south segment operates southbound from 5:30 a.m. to noon, and northbound from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

View an informational video the I-15 Express Lanes

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More Commute Choices

Consider commute choices that save time, save money, and help the environment. Join other San Diego commuters who use express transit or rideshare once a week or more!

iCommute, the regional commuter assistance program managed by SANDAG, can help you find inexpensive and safe alternatives to driving alone.

Ever thought about carpooling or vanpooling? Sign up with iCommute to help find commuters near where you live and work. You could be driving for free in the I-15 Express Lanes. What about taking public transit? A ride down the I-15 Express Lanes on board an Express Bus is relaxing and quick. How about biking or working from home one day a week? It’s that easy to begin a better commute!

For more information, visit iCommute, call 511 and say “iCommute” when prompted, or e-mail icommutesd@sandag.org.

There are so many ways the I-15 Express Lanes can keep you moving!