Maryland E-ZPass transponder mounting requires placing the device 2 to 3 inches behind the rearview mirror on the inside of the windshield. The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) sets this exact position so toll readers can scan the radio signal at every Maryland toll plaza.
Correct mounting stops missed tolls, video toll charges, and signal errors at bridges and tunnels. Maryland operates toll facilities at the Bay Bridge, Baltimore Harbor Tunnel, Fort McHenry Tunnel, and Intercounty Connector, all of which use E-ZPass lanes.
Maryland E-ZPass Transponder Mounting Requirements
Maryland requires every EZPass transponder to mount on the inside of the windshield. The device must sit 1 inch to the right of the rearview mirror and 1 inch below the roofline. This spot keeps the transponder within range of overhead toll readers.
The transponder must face forward with the serial number pointing toward the road. Drivers who mount the device backward or upside down get no signal read at toll plazas. The MDTA rejects reversed transponders and charges the driver the Video Toll rate.
Maryland EZPass holders who use the device 3 times per month pay no monthly fee. Drivers who use it less pay $1.50 per month. The monthly fee stops when the device reaches 3 monthly uses.
Where to Mount E-ZPass on Your Windshield
Mount your EZ Pass on the passenger side of the rearview mirror mount. Place it 1 inch below the headliner and 1 inch to the right of the mirror stem. The MDTA picked this area because it gives toll readers a clear line to the transponder.
Avoid placing the transponder behind tinted strips or near rain sensors. Metallic window tint blocks the radio signal and causes read errors at every Maryland toll facility.
- 1 inch right of the rearview mirror
- 1 inch below the roofline
- At least 2 inches away from any tint strip
- Below any ADAS camera housing
Tools and Materials Needed for Mounting
You need the EZPass transponder, the hook-and-loop strips from the package, a microfiber cloth, and isopropyl alcohol. Scissors help trim the strips for a clean fit.
The hook-and-loop strips come attached to the back of the transponder. You need alcohol to clean the glass before peeling the backing paper. A clean surface stops the transponder from falling at high speeds on the highway.
- EZPass MD transponder with hook-and-loop strips
- Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher)
- Microfiber cloth or lint-free towel
- Scissors for trimming strips
Mounting Steps for Your Maryland E-ZPass
Mount your E-ZPass in 5 simple steps:
- Clean the mounting area with isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber cloth. Let the glass dry fully.
- Peel the backing paper from the hook-and-loop strip on the top of the transponder back.
- Hold the transponder against the cleaned windshield spot for 30 seconds.
- Press the bottom strip to the glass and hold for 30 seconds.
- Wait 15 minutes before driving so the adhesive sets.
Test the mount by driving through any Maryland EZ-Pass lane. Watch for the green light or listen for the beep that signals a valid read. A failed read means you need to move the device to a new spot.
Vehicle-Specific Mounting Tips
Some vehicles need special mounting steps based on windshield type and sensor placement.
- Tinted windshields: Metallic tint blocks E-ZPass signals. Mount the transponder over an untinted area near the mirror.
- ADAS sensors: Cars with lane-assist or auto-braking cameras need the transponder placed below the sensor housing.
- Heated windshields: Some heated windshields have metallic coatings that block signals. Mount in the standard spot and test at a toll plaza.
- Pop-up barriers: Convertibles and Jeeps with removable tops need the transponder mounted to the frame instead of the glass.
E-ZPass Internal vs External Mount
Most Maryland drivers use the internal windshield mount. This method works for over 95% of vehicles on the road today.
External mounts attach to the license plate bolts or front bumper area. Trucks with metal windshields, RVs with heavy tint, and some commercial vehicles need external mounts. The MDTA sells external mounting kits at service centers for $5.
External mount users must register the transponder with the license plate number. The device reads when the vehicle passes the toll lane. External mounts work in all weather and do not block driver sight lines.
E-ZPass on Motorcycle in Maryland
Motorcycles use a special E-ZPass transponder made for handlebar mounting. The device fits in a weatherproof case and locks to the brake or clutch perch.
Maryland motorcycle riders must register the transponder with the motorcycle license plate number. The MDTA charges the same toll rate as cars for motorcycles with E-ZPass. The Bay Bridge and Fort McHenry Tunnel both accept motorcycle EZ Pass.
Motorcycle E-ZPass holders can pick up the handlebar transponder at any Maryland service center. The device costs $25 and includes the mounting case and weatherproof cover.
E-ZPass Rental Car Installation
Rental car drivers can mount an E-ZPass using a suction-cup holder. The holder sticks to the windshield without adhesive and removes cleanly when you return the car.
You can also use a temporary adhesive strip from a hardware store. Clean the glass with alcohol, press the strip on, and peel it off when returning the rental. Temporary strips leave no residue on the glass.
Return the rental car with no adhesive residue. Clean the glass with glass cleaner if any marks remain. Rental companies charge cleaning fees for sticky residue on the windshield.
E-ZPass Dashboard Mount and Sun Visor Options
Sun visor mounts and dashboard stands work for drivers who cannot use the windshield. These mounts hold the transponder at the correct angle for toll readers.
The MDTA approved mount list includes the VisorPocket and the DashMount Pro. Non-approved holders may cause signal loss or read errors. Check the packaging for the MDTA approval stamp before buying a third-party mount.
Sun visor mounts flip up when you enter a toll lane. Dashboard mounts sit on top of the dash and angle the transponder toward the windshield. Both options cost between $10 and $25 at Maryland travel stores.
E-ZPass Velcro Strip Replacement
The hook-and-loop strips wear out after 2 to 3 years of use. Heat and sunlight break down the adhesive. Maryland summers shorten the strip life to 18 months in some cases.
Request free replacement strips from the MDTA service center or order them through your online account at driveezmd.com. You can also buy 3M Dual Lock strips at hardware stores as a replacement.
Pull the old strips off the transponder back. Clean the surface with alcohol. Press the new strips in place for 30 seconds. Test the bond by gently pulling the transponder away from the glass.
Maryland Toll Road Transponder Rules
Maryland toll roads require a working EZPass or Video Toll account. The following facilities use EZ-Pass lanes:
- William Preston Lane Jr. Memorial Bridge (Bay Bridge)
- Baltimore Harbor Tunnel
- Fort McHenry Tunnel
- Intercounty Connector (MD-200)
- MD-695 (Baltimore Beltway)
- John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway (I-95)
Drivers without EZ Pass pay a higher Video Toll rate. The Video Toll rate is 1.5 times the E-ZPass rate. The Video Toll charge shows up in the mail 30 to 60 days after the missed toll.
E-ZPass Not Reading Properly
causes of read errors include:
- Dirty windshield over the transponder
- Transponder placed too low or behind tint
- Expired account balance
- Dead battery inside the transponder
- Hook-and-loop strips that lost grip
Move the transponder to the correct spot. Check the account balance online at driveezmd.com. Replace the transponder if the battery dies or the strips no longer stick.
Call the MDTA customer service line if the read errors continue after a reposition. The MDTA can run a remote diagnostic on the transponder and send a replacement if the device fails.
Maryland E-ZPass Customer Service
Call the Maryland EZPass customer service line at 1-888-321-6824 for mounting help. The phone line operates 7 days a week from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Visit the Baltimore service center at 2310 Broening Highway, Baltimore, MD 21224. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM for walk-in service. Saturday hours run from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Baltimore location.
Other service center locations include Annapolis, Elkton, and Upper Marlboro. Check the website for the full list of walk-in centers and current hours. Service center staff can test your transponder, replace dead units, and register new vehicles on your account.
You can also manage your account, order replacement strips, and update vehicle plates at driveezmd.com.
Maryland E-ZPass Mounting FAQ
Drivers ask these questions about Maryland EZ Pass mounting. The answers cover the most common setup issues across the state.
Where exactly do I mount my E-ZPass in Maryland?
Mount your E-ZPass on the inside of the windshield, 1 inch to the right of the rearview mirror and 1 inch below the roofline. The Maryland Transportation Authority requires this exact position. Mounting the transponder anywhere else can cause signal errors and missed tolls at Maryland toll plazas. Check the MDTA diagram online for a visual guide.
Can I move my E-ZPass between cars?
Yes. You can move your EZPass between vehicles as long as you register each license plate in your account. Log in to driveezmd.com and add or remove plates in the vehicles section. Drivers who use the transponder in an unregistered car get Video Toll charges. Video Tolls cost 1.5 times the EZPass rate.
What happens if my E-ZPass falls off the windshield?
The toll system charges your account the Video Toll rate, which is 1.5 times the E-ZPass rate. Replace the hook-and-loop strips or move the transponder to the correct spot. Report the lost transponder to the MDTA if it fell out of the car on the highway. The MDTA will cancel the old device and send a free replacement.
Do I need an external E-ZPass mount for my truck?
Trucks with metal windshields need an external EZPass mount. The MDTA sells external mounting kits at service centers for $5. The kit attaches to the license plate bolts or front bumper and reads the signal at toll lanes. External mounts work in all weather and do not block driver sight lines.
How do I get replacement velcro strips for my E-ZPass?
Request free replacement strips from any Maryland EZ-Pass service center. You can also order them through your online account at driveezmd.com. 3M Dual Lock strips from hardware stores work as a replacement. Pull the old strips off, clean the surface with alcohol, and press the new strips for 30 seconds.
Can I use my Maryland E-ZPass in other states?
Yes. Maryland E-ZPass works in 19 states across the EZ-Pass network. The network covers toll roads from Maine to Illinois and south to Florida. Out-of-state tolls appear on your monthly Maryland EZPass statement. The same transponder works in every EZ Pass state without any changes.
What is the phone number for Maryland E-ZPass customer service?
Call 1-888-321-6824 for Maryland EZ-Pass customer service. The phone line operates 7 days a week from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. You can get help with mounting, account balances, and replacement transponders. Phone support is free for all Maryland E-ZPass holders.