Oklahoma Completes Statewide Transition To Cashless Turnpikes

All Oklahoma turnpikes are now completely cashless, allowing drivers to pass through tolls without stopping.

The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority says the change to cashless tolling is focused on enhancing safety. According to the OTA, more than 500 crashes have occurred at toll plazas across the state.

The Turnpike Authority initially planned a 10-year transition but decided to switch sooner due to the number of serious crashes. The Will Rogers Turnpike is the last to convert to cashless tolling.

Lisa Shearer-Salim with the OTA advises Oklahomans to use PIKEPASS moving forward, calling it the most cost-effective option. Drivers without a PIKEPASS will use the PlatePay system. The OTA says cashless tolling eliminates the need for speed changes when entering or exiting turnpikes.

“When you are traveling down the road at 70 or 80 miles per hour and realize you’ve got to pull over to pay cash, you’re digging off to the side for your change or pulling out your wallet,” Shearer-Salim said. “It’s a distraction, and it becomes a conflict point and a dangerous place for motorists and ultimately for our employees.”

On Wednesday, the Will Rogers Turnpike will close some lanes as crews convert signs and close the cash lanes.

The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority asks drivers to watch for workers at toll booths over the next two weeks.