DTOP urges drivers to verify accounts, register transponders & maintain sufficient balances to avoid toll penalties
By THE STAR STAFF
Administrative fines associated with Puerto Rico’s AutoExpreso electronic toll system were reactivated Monday, marking the end of a suspension period that allowed motorists time to update their accounts and prepare for the return of enforcement measures.
The Puerto Rico Highways and Transportation Authority (HTA) announced that the reinstatement of fines is part of requirements established under the agency’s certified Fiscal Plan and budgetary commitments. Authorities had previously disclosed on July 20 that penalties would resume in October.
With the deadline approaching, Transportation and Public Works (DTOP by its acronym in Spanish) Secretary and HTA Executive Director Edwin González Montalvo urged motorists to review their AutoExpreso accounts, ensure their toll transponders are properly registered, and maintain sufficient balances to cover toll charges.
“Beginning Monday, October 19, the administrative fines associated with AutoExpreso will be reinstated as part of compliance with the requirements established under the HTA’s certified Fiscal Plan,” González Montalvo said. “Our goal is for this transition to take place in an orderly manner and for users to have the information and tools necessary to properly manage their accounts.”
The resumption of fines follows a modernization effort undertaken by the HTA to upgrade the AutoExpreso system. The project included replacing toll plaza infrastructure along highways PR-20, PR-52, PR-53 and PR-66, as well as implementing improvements to operational systems and cybersecurity components.
Officials said the investments have enhanced the system’s operational stability and restored the functionality needed to resume enforcement of existing toll regulations.
To help motorists avoid penalties, DTOP and the HTA reminded drivers that account balances can be checked and replenished through several channels, including the AutoExpreso mobile application, the AutoExpreso website, designated recharge lanes, the toll system’s customer service line, CESCO offices and the AutoExpreso walk-in office at Metro Office Park in Guaynabo.
The HTA also noted that more than 370 payment locations across Puerto Rico, including participating pharmacies, gas stations and banks, are available for drivers seeking to pay AutoExpreso administrative fines. Payments can also be made through the CESCO Digital mobile application and website.
Officials reiterated the importance of registering AutoExpreso accounts. Registered users can review account balances, access detailed records of toll transactions, including dates, times and toll locations, and receive notifications when balances run low or accounts lack sufficient funds. The registration process does not require users to provide credit card information.
The HTA said it will continue its public information campaign in the coming weeks to help motorists understand the tools available to manage their accounts and avoid fines now that enforcement has resumed.
