Frequently Asked Questions

Sometimes the toll gate does not lift. Why?

Most commonly, the toll gate does not lift when:
  • Users let their account balance reach zero
  • Users do not use the transponder correctly
If you allow your account balance to reach zero, you will get a stop signal in the lane when you attempt to use your MACPASS. If this happens you will need to make arrangements to make a payment or your account may be suspended and a $10.00 reactivation fee will be applied.

Please note: As your account balance nears zero, a low balance message will appear under the ``GO`` sign as you travel through the toll lane.

Other reasons why the toll gate may not lift are:

Speeding through the tolls: Motorcycle, moped and scooter drivers are encouraged to come to a complete stop and swipe their MACPASS in front of the MACPASS reader located above the coin basket in all cash lanes. All other vehicles must reduce speed to 25 km/h to ensure that the MACPASS transponder will work correctly. All vehicles should be prepared to stop at any time while going through the tolls.

Defective transponder: Unfortunately, it is possible that your transponder may be defective. To get a new transponder just log onto your account at www.myMACPASS.com or visit the MACPASS customer service centre between 8:30am – 5:30pm, Monday to Friday. Report and return your defective transponder in person or by mail at PO Box 39, 465 Princess Margaret Blvd, Dartmouth, NS, B2Y 3Y2.

Please note: A $25.00 fee will be applied to users who do not return transponders to the MACPASS customer service centre.



About MACPASS Maintaining your MACPASS Commercial vs. Personal Accounts Using MACPASS for Motorcycles and Mopeds Proper Use of MACPASS in Passenger and Commercial Vehicles