E-ZPass Flex: New gadget will give carpoolers an express ride free

Operating the new E-ZPass Flex transponder, designed for drivers who will use the high-occupancy toll lanes, is simple. The updated rules on using and paying for a Virginia E-ZPass are not.

Drivers are asking whether they should get the new device, where they can get it and whether it will work for their particular commuting situation. Here are the answers to some basic questions:

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The new E-ZPass Flex transponder in the HOV ON setting, the one that carpoolers will use.

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E-ZPass Flex

●What is it? The Flex is a variation on the almost 20-year-old transponder that is popular with drivers because it allows them to pay tolls automatically. One of the few things better than easy toll payment is no toll payment, which is what the Flex allows.

●How do I use it? This new style transponder fits on the inside of the windshield, just like the traditional one. But the Flex has a switch. When the switch is to the left, the transponder works like any other. When the driver slides the switch to the right, the words “HOV ON” are revealed. That’s the carpool setting.

●Where can I use it? On the 495 Express Lanes, when they open later this year on the Capital Beltway between Springfield and the Dulles Toll Road. Drivers already can see overhead signs for the lanes marked “E-ZPass EXPRESS.” Northern Virginia drivers also will be able to use the Flex on the I-95 Express Lanes when those are open in 2015.

●Who needs it? All drivers except motorcyclists will need to have the standard transponder or the Flex to use the new lanes. Drivers will need to have the Flex if they want to get the free ride offered to those who meet the HOV rules.

495 Express Lanes

●How are tolls collected? Drivers who use the four new lanes on the Beltway will not see tollbooths. The transponders’ information will be read when the vehicles pass under gantries placed at various points along the express lanes. It will work like Maryland’s Intercounty Connector, but the connector has no toll exemption for carpoolers.

●What if I carpool with a standard transponder? You will be charged the toll. The electronic monitoring system for the new lanes will not recognize you as an HOV traveler. The same goes for a carpooler who forgets to flip the switch to the “HOV ON” setting.

●What about cheaters? This is why the Flex was invented. It will be part of an electronic monitoring system used by state police to identify drivers claiming the HOV exemption. They will observe whether those drivers have at least two other people on board. The operators of the express lanes — who stand to lose money if cheaters ride free — say they are confident that this system will limit the number of violations.

●Who else needs Flex? The rules for car drivers apply to van-pool operators and taxis, as well. They will need the Flex to indicate that there are at least three people aboard. The exemption that allows drivers of hybrids to use HOV lanes even when they don’t meet the carpool rules will not apply in the new express lanes. Those drivers will pay the toll and need regular E-ZPass transponders.

E-ZPass prices

●What’s the charge for a current account holder? If you had a Virginia E-ZPass account before July 9, you won’t pay the monthly fees set to kick in on Sept. 1. But if you replace a standard transponder or add one to your account, you will pay the same fees as a new account holder.