West Virginia Parkways Authority

Transponder Information

How do I install my transponder?

How do I know my transponder is working when I receive it?

What is the transponder number and how do I locate it?

Do I need to change the E-ZPass® transponder batteries?

May I have more than one transponder? Does it cost me more?

May  I hold my transponder instead of mounting it on the windshield?

What happens if I have more than one E-ZPass® transponder in my vehicle?

What if I forgot my transponder?

What happens if my transponder is damaged, lost or stolen?

Where can I obtain additional mounting strips?

What do I do if my transponder is not working?

Are there any instances when I should not use my transponder?

 

 

How do I install my transponder?

Properly installing the interior E-ZPass® transponder in your vehicle is easy and essential.

1.  Clean and dry the inside of your windshield around the rear view mirror.

2.  Without removing the mounting strips from the transponder, remove the tape backing from the mounting strips.

3.  Turn the transponder label right side up facing you.  Adhere the transponder inside your vehicle to the upper center portion of your windshield, behind the rear view mirror at least one inch to the right of the center support of the mirror and at least one inch below the top edge of the windshield, or below the tinted section of the glass. 

How do I know my transponder is working when I receive it?

All transponders are tested before distribution. If you suspect your transponder is not functioning properly, please call the West Virginia Parkways E-ZPass® Customer Service Center at 1-800-206-6222.

What is the transponder number and how do I locate it?

The transponder number is the eleven-digit number on the bottom left side of the label above the barcode. All West Virginia E-ZPass® transponders start with "024".

Do I need to change the E-ZPass® transponder batteries?

No.  A lithium battery is permanently sealed into each E-ZPass® transponder. 

May I have more than one transponder? Does it cost me more?

Individual accounts - Customers may request up to five transponders on a single account, each transponder will have a separate discount plan but will debit from the same account balance.

Commercial accounts - There is no limit to the number of transponders a customer may have on a single account. Each transponder requires a non-refundable $25 transponder fee.

May I hold my transponder instead of mounting it on the windshield?

No, It is mandatory for your safety and to ensure a successful toll transaction that the transponder is properly installed.  The E-ZPass® antenna is located overhead, well in advance of the toll booth. If you do not have the transponder properly mounted as you pass through the toll lane, it may not work properly.  Transponders are affixed at certain locations on the vehicle to allow for maximum exposure to overhead antennas that will “read” each transponder for account information and debit the appropriate toll amount (transponders are not permanently affixed).   Waiting until the last minute to find your transponder or holding it in the window interferes with the transaction.  If a transponder is not mounted or incorrectly mounted to the window, or if the driver holds the transponder, this will severely reduce its functionality and completely disable the transponder.

What happens if I have more than one E-ZPass® transponder in my vehicle?

Multiple transponders in a single vehicle may result in inadvertent charges and violations.  We strongly recommend that you establish a single E-ZPass® account with just one agency and just one E-ZPass® transponder in each vehicle.  If multiple transponders are carried in a vehicle, it is your responsibility to place additional transponders in a foil or metallic bag to avoid additional charges.

What if I forgot my transponder?

If you are in a staffed toll lane, you will need to pay the full amount of the toll charges in cash.  If you are in an E-ZPass® only lane, DO NOT STOP OR ATTEMPT TO BACK UP.  Equipment in the lane will capture an image of your vehicle’s license plate.  If your license plate is listed on your E-ZPass® account, we will attempt to post the toll to your account.  If the license plate of the vehicle in which you are traveling is not listed on your E-ZPass account, the registered owner of the vehicle will receive a written violation notice for the toll and any applicable fees.

What happens if my transponder is damaged, lost or stolen?

If your transponder is lost or stolen, report it immediately.  Log in to your account and go to Vehicles & Tags, visit our Customer service Center or call 1-800-206-6222 to report the transponder lost or stolen and request another transponder.  You will not be liable for unauthorized transponder(s) usage that occurs AFTER we receive written notice from you via mail, e-mail (customerservicecenter@wvturnpike.com) or fax (304-926-3748).  You will be libel for toll charges incurred prior to notification.  If your West Virginia E-ZPass® transponder is non-operational for reasons other than abuse or improper use and the transponder is returned to us, we will replace it at no charge to you.  Otherwise, you will pay $25 to replace the transponder.  If your transponder is damaged due to defacement, you will pay $25 to replace.  

Where can I obtain additional mounting strips?

Mounting strips are available by visiting the West Virginia E-ZPass® Customer Service Center, online under Account Management, or by calling 1-800-206-6222. 

What do I do if my transponder is not working?

There is a non-user replaceable battery in the E-ZPass® transponder. It is designed to last at least five years. The primary reason for an E-ZPass® not working properly is incorrect usage or installation.  The transponder MUST be installed correctly to function correctly.  If the E-ZPass® Customer Service Center concludes your transponder has malfunctioned due to the battery, you will need to swap your transponder for a new unit. This exchange can be done in person or by mail. To exchange your transponder by mail, wrap it in foil or enclosed in the metallic bag and send it with a letter requesting an exchange to the address below. A new unit will be shipped upon receipt of your old transponder.

Send Transponder to:

Parkways E-ZPass Customer Service Center

3310 Piedmont Road

Charleston, WV 25306

Are there any instances when I should not use my transponder?

Yes, there are.  You should not use your West Virginia E-ZPass® transponder when any of the following occurs:

  • If you reported your transponder lost or stolen but find it later;
  • If you have an insufficient toll balance in your account;
  • If you are traveling at a different plaza than covered under your Discount Plan and you do not have a positive toll balance;
  • If you use a different type of vehicle than noted on your account;
  • To avoid violations or additional fees, you must wrap your transponder in foil or place in the metallic bag.