I-485 Express Lanes
The I-485 Express Lanes are dedicated express lanes between I-77 and U.S. 74 that will run adjacent to the general purpose lanes on I-485 in Charlotte. These lanes will allow drivers to travel more quickly, improving traffic flow and reducing congestion on the highway’s general purpose lanes.
Toll Rates
The I-485 Express Lanes’ tolls will be set by the time of day and the date. Click here for the full list of toll rates.
Within the first 12 months, we expect the I-485 Express Lanes to move to dynamic pricing, meaning that prices may go up or down, depending upon the amount of traffic in the express lanes. This will regulate traffic in the express lanes to keep traffic moving.
Toll Free Travel
The following vehicles and riders will qualify for toll-free travel in the I-485 Express Lanes:
- Riders utilizing the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) Vanpool rideshare services.
- Transit vehicles with an NC Quick Pass Transit account and properly installed NC Quick Pass Transit Sticker transponder.
- First responders with a First Responder account and properly installed NC Quick Pass First Responder Sticker travel for free while responding to emergencies for law enforcement, fire, rescue and medical services.
Toll Zones
Vehicle Classifications
Standard Vehicle (Less than 22 feet)
Tolls shown on the I-485 Express Lanes are for two-axle vehicles or motorcycles less than 22 feet with a NC Quick Pass account.
Standard vehicles without a NC Quick Pass account will pay double the posted toll rate.
Extended Vehicle (More than 22 feet)
Tolls for two-axle vehicles 22 feet or more are two times (2x) the Standard Vehicle rate.
Two-axle vehicles with a single-axle trailer will also pay the extended vehicle rate.
Prohibited Vehicle (Vehicles with three axles or more)
Vehicles with more than two axles or a 2-axle vehicle hauling a trailer with two or more axles may not use the I-485 Express Lanes.
