TxTag Account Complete Guide: HCTRA Transition, Setup & Management 2025
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TxTag Account Complete Guide
System: Electronic toll collection managed by HCTRA (since November 2024)
Coverage: All Texas toll roads plus Kansas and Oklahoma
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Technology: TxTag sticker transponders + EZ TAG system
Operator: Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA) for TxDOT
Do I Need a TxTag Account? 2025 Update
You don't need a TxTag account specifically - but you do need an electronic toll tag to get the best rates on Texas toll roads. The landscape changed dramatically in 2024 when HCTRA took over TxTag operations.
Key Reality: TxTag.org closed for new accounts as of February 22, 2025. New customers must get EZ TAG accounts through HCTRA, while existing TxTag customers can continue using their tags if accounts were successfully transferred.
2025 Update: HCTRA completed the TxTag transition in early 2025, unifying toll billing across Houston and Austin regions. All new toll tag customers receive EZ TAG accounts, while existing TxTag stickers remain functional.
TxTag Account Status: What Changed in 2025
The TxTag system underwent a major transformation when HCTRA took over operations from TxDOT in November 2024.
TxTag Transition Timeline
| Date | Event | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| November 9, 2024 | HCTRA takes over TxTag operations | Billing and customer service transferred |
| November 15-18, 2024 | Account transition blackout period | Customer accounts migrated to HCTRA |
| December 2, 2024 | HCTRA accounts activated | Transferred customers gain online access |
| February 22, 2025 | TxTag.org services end | No new TxTag accounts, payments discontinued |
Account Transfer Status
Successfully Transferred Accounts:
- Active accounts with toll transactions in the last 12 months
- Accounts in good standing with no unpaid balances
- Customers can continue using existing TxTag stickers
- Account management now at hctra.org
Non-Transferred Accounts:
- Inactive accounts (no transactions in 12+ months)
- Accounts with outstanding unpaid balances
- Customers must get new EZ TAG accounts through HCTRA
- Positive balances receive refunds (checks expire in 180 days)
How to Get a Toll Tag Account in 2025
Since TxTag.org no longer accepts new accounts, all new customers must get EZ TAG accounts through HCTRA.
New Account Setup Process
1. Online Application (Recommended):
- Visit hctra.org and navigate to EZ TAG sign-up
- Provide personal information and vehicle details
- Initial deposit: $20 (no monthly fees)
- Tag mailed to your address within 5-7 business days
2. Phone Application:
- Call HCTRA customer service: 281-875-EASY (3279)
- Provide necessary information over the phone
- EZ TAG mailed after account processing
3. In-Person Service:
- Visit HCTRA customer service centers in Houston area
- Austin TxTag center remains open at 12719 Burnet Road
- Bring driver's license, vehicle registration, and payment method
- Receive EZ TAG immediately and fund account on-site
Account Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Initial Deposit | $20 minimum (goes toward toll payments) |
| Monthly Fee | $0 (no monthly maintenance fees) |
| Vehicle Registration | Must provide accurate license plate information |
| Payment Method | Credit card, debit card, or bank account for auto-replenishment |
Managing Your TxTag/EZ TAG Account
Account management depends on whether your TxTag account was transferred to HCTRA or if you have a new EZ TAG account.
For Transferred TxTag Customers
Account Access:
- Log in at hctra.org using "first time login" option
- Verify email address and account number
- Existing TxTag stickers continue to work
- Account management through HCTRA's system
Replacement Tags:
- New or replacement stickers will be EZ TAG format
- Order through HCTRA, not TxTag.org
- Existing TxTag stickers remain functional until replacement needed
Account Management Features
Online Portal (hctra.org):
- View account balance and transaction history
- Add funds to account (manual or auto-replenishment)
- Update vehicle and contact information
- View monthly and yearly statements
- Pay missed tolls and violation invoices
Mobile App:
- EZ TAG app available for iOS and Android
- Manage account balance and payment methods
- View toll transactions and receive notifications
- Access roadside assistance services
To calculate toll costs for cars, trucks, motorcycles and all vehicle types across Texas toll roads, use TollGuru Texas toll calculator
Payment Options and Billing
HCTRA's billing system now applies to all former TxTag customers, providing more payment options and consistent billing practices.
Payment Methods
Electronic Payments:
- Credit/debit cards for auto-replenishment
- Bank account (ACH) transfers
- Online payments through hctra.org
- EZ TAG mobile app payments
Cash Payments:
- EZ Toll Pay at 5,000+ retail locations
- H-E-B, Walmart, and other participating stores
- In-person at HCTRA customer service centers
- Austin TxTag center accepts cash payments
Billing Structure
Tag Users:
- Lowest toll rates available
- Automatic deduction from prepaid account
- No per-transaction fees
- Monthly statements for record-keeping
Pay-by-Mail (Non-Tag):
- Higher toll rates than tag users
- EZ Invoice billing for TxDOT and HCTRA roads
- Processing fees apply
- 30-day payment window to avoid penalties
Tag Installation and Usage
Proper installation is crucial for tag functionality, whether you have an existing TxTag or new EZ TAG sticker.
Installation Guidelines
Standard Vehicles:
- Install on inside of windshield behind rearview mirror
- Clean and dry surface before installation
- Temperature must be above 50°F during installation
- Center tag 4 inches below top edge of windshield
Special Vehicles:
- Mirror attached to windshield: 0.5 inches below mirror attachment
- Oversized trucks: 2 inches from bottom of windshield
- Motorcycles: Follow manufacturer's specific guidance
Compatible Toll Roads
TxTag and EZ TAG stickers work on all toll roads in Texas, Kansas, and Oklahoma:
- All HCTRA toll roads (Houston area)
- All NTTA toll roads (Dallas-Fort Worth area)
- All TxDOT toll roads (Austin, Houston regions)
- Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority roads
- Kansas Turnpike Authority roads
- Oklahoma Turnpike Authority roads
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The transition period created some confusion for customers. Here are solutions to common problems:
Account Access Problems
Can't Access TxTag Account:
- TxTag.org login is permanently disabled
- Transferred accounts: Use hctra.org "first time login"
- Non-transferred accounts: Must create new EZ TAG account
Receiving Multiple Bills:
- During transition, some customers received separate TxTag and HCTRA bills
- These are not duplicates - each must be paid to respective agency
- TxTag bills for transactions before November 8, 2024: Call 888-468-9824
- HCTRA EZ Invoices for current transactions: Call 281-875-3279
Tag Performance Issues
Tag Not Detected:
- Check proper installation behind rearview mirror
- Ensure account has sufficient balance
- Verify license plate information is current
- Contact HCTRA if tag appears damaged
Incorrect Charges:
- Verify vehicle classification (car vs truck)
- Check that license plate matches account
- Dispute incorrect charges through HCTRA customer service
- Review transaction history for accuracy
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use my existing TxTag sticker?
Yes, if your account was transferred to HCTRA, your existing TxTag sticker continues to work on all compatible toll roads. Only when you need a replacement will you receive an EZ TAG sticker.
What happened to my old TxTag account balance?
Transferred accounts: Your balance moved to HCTRA and is accessible through hctra.org. Non-transferred accounts: Positive balances are being refunded by check (deposit within 180 days to avoid forfeiture).
Why can't I access TxTag.org anymore?
TxTag.org closed to new accounts on February 22, 2025, as part of the transition to HCTRA. All new customers must use hctra.org, and existing customers with transferred accounts manage their accounts there.
Do I need to get a new toll tag?
Only if your account wasn't transferred to HCTRA. Transferred customers can continue using their existing TxTag stickers. Non-transferred customers must get new EZ TAG accounts and stickers to receive the lowest toll rates.
What's the difference between TxTag and EZ TAG now?
Functionally, there's no difference - both provide the same toll rates and work on the same roads. The main difference is branding: new customers receive EZ TAG stickers, while existing TxTag stickers remain functional until replacement is needed.
TxTag vs Regional Toll Systems
| System | Current Status | Coverage | Management |
|---|---|---|---|
| TxTag | Existing tags functional | Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma | HCTRA (since Nov 2024) |
| EZ TAG | New accounts only | Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma | HCTRA |
| US Toll Systems | Various transponders | Nationwide interoperability | Multiple authorities |
| Canada Toll | Limited systems | Provincial networks | Provincial authorities |
Useful Links & Resources
Account Management:
- EZ TAG Houston - Houston-area toll tag services
- Pay Toll Texas - Payment methods across Texas
Contact Information:
- HCTRA Customer Service: 281-875-EASY (3279)
- TxTag Legacy Issues: 888-468-9824 (for pre-Nov 2024 transactions)
- Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Website: hctra.org
- Mobile App: EZ TAG app (iOS/Android)
Service Locations:
- Austin TxTag Center: 12719 Burnet Road, Austin, TX
- Houston HCTRA Centers: Multiple locations throughout Houston area
- Retail Partners: H-E-B, Walmart, and 5,000+ EZ Toll Pay locations
- DPS Offices: Georgetown, New Braunfels, and Pflugerville
