Cash toll booths are slowly becoming a thing of the past in New Jersey. One by one, the state is ditching dollar bills and coins for cameras, scanners, and overheads. And now, another major crossing connecting Jersey is officially making the switch.

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If you have already noticed fewer cash lanes around the state, you are not imagining it. The Atlantic City Expressway recently went fully cashless. Based on how I saw drivers reacting, we're still not ready. It's not just the AC Expressway; the Port Authority and others have also leaned heavily into electronic tolling. It's clear that this is the future.

Why New Jersey Tolls Are Going Fully Cashless

The latest move comes as part of a massive "improvement plan" that totals more than 161 million dollars. About 34 million of that is being set aside specifically to design and install a fully electronic toll collection system over the next four years.

So what does that actually mean for drivers?

Instead of pulling up to a booth and handing over cash, drivers will pass under high speed overhead gantries equipped with toll tag readers and cameras. If you have E-ZPass, you will simply cruise through, and your account will be charged automatically. If you do not, the vehicle's registered owner will receive a bill by mail. That process is known as toll-by-plate.

In many cases, toll-by-plate users pay a slightly higher rate than E-ZPass customers. They say that price difference is meant to cover administrative costs and encourage more drivers to sign up for electronic tolling.

READ MORE: Why This NJ Gas Station Has People Talking Right Now

Major Bridge Upgrades Are Also Coming

The shift to cashless tolling is not just about convenience. Officials say the current toll-collection equipment is nearing the end of its life and needs to be replaced. Instead of rebuilding traditional booths, they are investing in a modern system that also improves traffic flow.

This will include widening the Delaware Memorial Bridge, which currently carries three lanes of traffic with narrow shoulders. The Delaware connects New Jersey and Delaware and is in very poor condition, deteriorating, and in need of upgrades.

All of this work will come over the next several years, wrapping up around 2030. Yes, you have some time to get used to the cashless tolls. Good luck with the construction traffic, though.

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