Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Welcome to the Tuscaloosa Bypass Frequently Asked Questions page. This section is here to guide you through everything you need to know about traveling on one of West Alabama’s most efficient and well-connected toll routes. From how tolls are collected to vehicle access policies and general travel tips, these FAQs are designed to make your journey faster, easier, and stress-free—whether you’re headed to work, school, or simply passing through Tuscaloosa.
General Information
A privately operated toll road connecting U.S. Highway 82 to Interstate 59/20, designed to reduce congestion and provide faster travel times in Tuscaloosa County.
The Bypass is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Tolling & Payment
Passenger vehicles: $2.00 with a Freedom Pass account, $2.50 cash/credit. Rates vary for larger vehicles based on axle count.
Cash, credit/debit cards, Freedom Pass (tag/mobile), and Bestpass.
No, E-ZPass is not accepted. Account-based programs can be opened directly with the Tuscaloosa By-Pass and may be used at any toll agency in Alabama. We also accept Bestpass.
Freedom Pass
An electronic toll collection system offering discounted rates, online management, and dedicated lanes for faster passage.
Apply online at tuscaloosabypass.com or in person at our toll plaza office.
Travel & Safety
No, bicycles or pedestrians are not allowed for safety reasons; the Bypass is for motor vehicles only.
Oversized vehicles must comply with Alabama DOT regulations and contact the office for clearance guidance.
ACCOUNTS & PROGRAMS
Anyone can open an account in either USD or CAD. There are no residency requirements. Sign up online [Link] or visit our customer service center.
No, these are separate programs that operate independently. You'll need to choose which payment method works best for your travel needs.
No, we never communicate via text message about toll payments. We do not use video tolling. If you receive such a message, it is fraudulent.
VEHICLE RESTRICTIONS & REQUIREMENTS
U.S. Customs and Border Protection [Phone Number] [Website URL]
Canada Border Services Agency [Phone Number] [Website URL]
For additional border crossing information or questions about documentation requirements, please visit the official websites of U.S. Customs and Border Protection or the Canada Border Services Agency.
Remember: Requirements and regulations may change. Always check the latest requirements before traveling.
The following vehicles and individuals are prohibited from entering the Tunnel:
- - Scooters, bicycles, and motorcycles (including all 2- and 3-wheeled vehicles)
- - Vehicles transporting hazardous materials or radioactive substances
- - Pedestrians (walking is not permitted)
Commercial trucks are permitted subject to the following restrictions:
- - Max height: 12’-8” (3.8 meters)
- - Max width: 8’-6”
- - Max weight: 144,000 lbs (65,317 kg)
The Tunnel accommodates tandem trailers of 45’ and 48’, 5- and 6-axle flatbeds with lift axles, and “B” tandem trailers with sliders.
All commercial trucks displaying hazardous material placards are strictly prohibited.
Vehicle Requirements: • Maximum height: 12'8" (3.8 meters) • Maximum width: 8'6" (2.6 meters) • 30° curve in pillar section
The tunnel accommodates: • "A" Trains • "B" Trains • 45', 48', 5 and 6 axle flatbeds with lift axles • 45' and 48' trailers with 2 and 4 axle sliders
OPERATIONS & ACCESS
The Tunnel is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, except for:
- - Detroit Free Press Marathon: Closed one day in October, approx. 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- - Annual First Responders Joint Exercise: Date/time announced annually (typically 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM)
- - Planned Maintenance: Tunnel remains open with traffic management in place.
Yes, we maintain operations during major events like the NFL Draft, Grand Prix, and other city celebrations. Check our website for any special traffic patterns or guidelines during these events.
Real-time wait times are available: • On our website • Through our mobile app • Via our social media channels • By calling [Phone Number]
EMERGENCY & SPECIAL SITUATIONS
In case of vehicle problems:
- Turn on hazard lights
- Stay in your vehicle
- Wait for tunnel personnel
- Do not attempt to exit your vehicle or make repairs
Commercial vehicles should: • Check height and width requirements • Have proper documentation ready • Follow designated commercial vehicle lanes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions section, where you’ll find answers to common inquiries about using the Detroit Windsor Tunnel. As the world’s only underwater international vehicle border crossing, we’re committed to making your journey between Detroit and Windsor as smooth as possible. Below you’ll find important information about toll rates, payment methods, vehicle requirements, and operational procedures. Whether you’re a first-time user or regular commuter, these FAQs will help you plan your crossing efficiently.
General Information
A privately operated toll road connecting U.S. Highway 82 to Interstate 59/20, designed to reduce congestion and provide faster travel times in Tuscaloosa County.
The Bypass is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Tolling & Payment
Passenger vehicles: $1.25 with Freedom Pass, $1.50 cash/credit. Rates vary for larger vehicles based on axle count.
Cash, credit/debit cards, Freedom Pass, and BestPass.
No, E-ZPass is not accepted.
Freedom Pass
An electronic toll collection system offering discounted rates and faster passage.
Apply online or in person at our toll plaza office.
Travel & Safety
No, for safety reasons, the Bypass is for motor vehicles only.
Oversized vehicles must comply with Alabama DOT regulations and contact the office for clearance guidance.
ACCOUNTS & PROGRAMS
Anyone can open an account in either USD or CAD. There are no residency requirements. Sign up online [Link] or visit our customer service center.
No, these are separate programs that operate independently. You'll need to choose which payment method works best for your travel needs.
No, we never communicate via text message about toll payments. We do not use video tolling. If you receive such a message, it is fraudulent.
VEHICLE RESTRICTIONS & REQUIREMENTS
U.S. Customs and Border Protection [Phone Number] [Website URL]
Canada Border Services Agency [Phone Number] [Website URL]
For additional border crossing information or questions about documentation requirements, please visit the official websites of U.S. Customs and Border Protection or the Canada Border Services Agency.
Remember: Requirements and regulations may change. Always check the latest requirements before traveling.
The following vehicles and individuals are prohibited from entering the Tunnel:
- - Scooters, bicycles, and motorcycles (including all 2- and 3-wheeled vehicles)
- - Vehicles transporting hazardous materials or radioactive substances
- - Pedestrians (walking is not permitted)
Commercial trucks are permitted subject to the following restrictions:
- - Max height: 12’-8” (3.8 meters)
- - Max width: 8’-6”
- - Max weight: 144,000 lbs (65,317 kg)
The Tunnel accommodates tandem trailers of 45’ and 48’, 5- and 6-axle flatbeds with lift axles, and “B” tandem trailers with sliders.
All commercial trucks displaying hazardous material placards are strictly prohibited.
Vehicle Requirements: • Maximum height: 12'8" (3.8 meters) • Maximum width: 8'6" (2.6 meters) • 30° curve in pillar section
The tunnel accommodates: • "A" Trains • "B" Trains • 45', 48', 5 and 6 axle flatbeds with lift axles • 45' and 48' trailers with 2 and 4 axle sliders
OPERATIONS & ACCESS
The Tunnel is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, except for:
- - Detroit Free Press Marathon: Closed one day in October, approx. 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- - Annual First Responders Joint Exercise: Date/time announced annually (typically 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM)
- - Planned Maintenance: Tunnel remains open with traffic management in place.
Yes, we maintain operations during major events like the NFL Draft, Grand Prix, and other city celebrations. Check our website for any special traffic patterns or guidelines during these events.
Real-time wait times are available: • On our website • Through our mobile app • Via our social media channels • By calling [Phone Number]
EMERGENCY & SPECIAL SITUATIONS
In case of vehicle problems:
- Turn on hazard lights
- Stay in your vehicle
- Wait for tunnel personnel
- Do not attempt to exit your vehicle or make repairs
Commercial vehicles should: • Check height and width requirements • Have proper documentation ready • Follow designated commercial vehicle lanes