Wisconsin Toll Roads Complete Guide 2025: No Tolls, Free Travel
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Wisconsin Toll Roads Complete Guide
System: No toll roads - completely toll-free highway system
Coverage: All Wisconsin highways, interstates, and bridges are toll-free
Currency: US Dollar (USD) - only for gas and services
Technology: No electronic toll collection systems needed
Operator: Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT)
Do I Need to Pay Tolls in Wisconsin? 2025 Update
No, you do not need to pay any tolls to drive in Wisconsin. The state maintains a completely toll-free highway system, including all interstates, US highways, state highways, and bridges.
Key Reality: Wisconsin is one of 15 US states with no toll roads whatsoever. You can drive across the entire state on major highways like I-94, I-39, I-43, and I-41 without paying a single toll.
2025 Update: Wisconsin continues to maintain its toll-free policy. While neighboring states like Illinois operate extensive toll systems, Wisconsin has never introduced tolls and has no current plans to do so.
Scam Alert: In March 2025, Wisconsin DOT warned residents about toll scams claiming to be from Wisconsin DOT. Remember: "Wisconsin does not have tolls."
Wisconsin Highway Costs: What You Actually Pay
Since Wisconsin has no toll roads, your only driving costs are fuel, parking, and vehicle maintenance. The state's 115,866 miles of public roads are funded through gas taxes, vehicle registration fees, and federal highway funds.
Wisconsin Highway System (2025)
| Highway Type | Miles | Toll Cost | Maintained By |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interstate Highways | 879 miles | $0.00 | WisDOT |
| US & State Highways | 10,867 miles | $0.00 | WisDOT |
| Local Roads | 104,120 miles | $0.00 | Cities/Counties |
| Bridges & Tunnels | All structures | $0.00 | Various |
Major Wisconsin Highways (All Toll-Free)
Interstate Highways:
- I-94: Milwaukee to Twin Cities corridor (Wisconsin portion completely toll-free)
- I-39/I-90: Madison to Chicago route (Wisconsin portion toll-free)
- I-43: Milwaukee to Green Bay (entirely toll-free)
- I-41: Milwaukee to Green Bay via Appleton (toll-free)
To calculate fuel costs for your Wisconsin journey, use TollGuru's free gas calculator for all vehicle types:
How Wisconsin Funds Its Roads
Wisconsin funds its highway system through:
- Gas Tax: State motor fuel tax on gasoline and diesel
- Vehicle Registration: Annual vehicle registration fees
- Federal Funding: Federal Highway Administration grants
- General Revenue: State general fund contributions
Unlike neighboring Illinois with its extensive toll system, Wisconsin has chosen to maintain toll-free highways funded through traditional taxation methods.
Recent Changes (2025)
No Toll Policy Confirmed:
- Wisconsin DOT reaffirmed in March 2025: "Wisconsin does not have tolls"
- No toll roads introduced or planned as of 2025
- Continued commitment to toll-free highway system
Infrastructure Improvements:
- I-41 Expansion Project between Appleton and De Pere continuing through 2025
- Multiple highway resurfacing projects across the state
- Bridge reconstruction and improvement projects ongoing
Connect 2050 Plan:
- Long-range transportation plan focusing on safety and efficiency
- No toll road components in future planning
- Emphasis on maintaining existing infrastructure
Planning Your Wisconsin Journey
Cost Considerations:
- Only fuel costs - no tolls anywhere in Wisconsin
- Parking fees in major cities like Milwaukee and Madison
- Consider toll costs when entering neighboring states
Border Crossing Considerations:
- Illinois: Expect significant tolls on I-90, I-94, and other major highways
- Minnesota: Generally toll-free but some Express Lane tolls in Twin Cities
- Iowa: No toll roads
- Michigan: No toll roads
Travel Tips:
- No E-ZPass or I-Pass needed for Wisconsin travel
- Consider getting transponder for Illinois routes
- Use 511 Wisconsin (511wi.gov) for real-time traffic information
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any tolls in Wisconsin?
No, Wisconsin has no toll roads, toll bridges, or toll tunnels. All highways, interstates, and bridges are completely toll-free.
Will Wisconsin ever introduce toll roads?
While toll roads have been discussed in the past for funding transportation projects, there are currently no approved plans to introduce tolls in Wisconsin. The state continues to fund highways through traditional methods.
Do I need E-ZPass or I-Pass for Wisconsin?
No, you don't need any electronic toll transponders for Wisconsin travel. However, consider getting I-Pass if you'll be driving in Illinois, as it offers significant savings on that state's toll roads.
Are there toll scams targeting Wisconsin drivers?
Yes, in March 2025, Wisconsin DOT warned about scam texts claiming unpaid tolls. These are fraudulent - Wisconsin has no tolls to pay. Never provide personal information in response to toll payment requests.
What should I budget for Wisconsin travel?
Budget only for fuel, parking, and accommodations. With no tolls, Wisconsin is one of the most cost-effective states for highway travel in the United States.
Wisconsin vs. Neighboring States
| State | System Type | Typical Cost | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | No tolls | $0.00 | Entire state toll-free |
| Illinois | I-Pass + Electronic | $0.50-$18.30 | Extensive toll network |
| Minnesota | Limited Express Lanes | $0.25-$8.00 | Twin Cities area only |
| Iowa | No tolls | $0.00 | Entire state toll-free |
| Michigan | No tolls | $0.00 | Entire state toll-free |
Useful Links & Resources
Wisconsin Transportation Information:
- Wisconsin DOT: (608) 266-2300 - Official state transportation agency
- 511 Wisconsin: 511wi.gov - Real-time traffic and road conditions
- WisDOT Plans: wisdotplans.gov - Long-range transportation planning
Emergency Contacts:
- Emergency Services: 911
- Wisconsin State Patrol: *477 (*GSP) from mobile phones
- Roadside Assistance: Contact your insurance or AAA
