I-485 Express Lanes
The I-485 Express Lanes are dedicated express lanes between I-77 and U.S. 74 (Independence Boulevard) 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.
The toll rates on the I-485 Express Lanes will be set by time of day and day of the week. For more information, including toll rates, visit ncquickpass.com/i485.
Within the first 12 months, we expect to shift to dynamic pricing for the I-485 Express Lanes will be dynamic, meaning that prices may go up or down depending upon the amount of traffic in the express lanes. Drivers will be notified of the price NC Quick Pass account holders will pay on the toll pricing signs prior to entering any segment of the express lanes. Drivers without a NC Quick Pass will pay double the posted rate.
Vehicles longer than 22 feet are considered extended vehicles and are subject to other rules and rates. To learn more, visit the I-485 Express Lanes webpage.
The I-485 Express Lanes may be used by all two-axle vehicles and motorcycles, but they may pay different rates.
Two-axle vehicles less than 22 feet in length and motorcycles will pay either the posted sign rate with a NC Quick Pass account or double the posted rate without an account.
Two-axle vehicles more than 22 feet in length will pay an extended vehicle rate. Additionally, two-axle vehicles with a single-axle trailer will also pay the extended vehicle rate. The extended vehicle rate is two times the posted NC Quick Pass account rate.
Vehicles with more than two axles or vehicles hauling two-axle or larger trailers may not use the I-485 Express Lanes.
The express lanes are divided into five toll segments with five entrances, five exits in each direction.
The express lanes will have a total of 10 toll segments along the 17-mile corridor. Toll charges are applied when drivers enter each tolling segment.
The rate that is displayed on the pricing sign as you enter the express lanes is the rate charged to NC Quick Pass account holders, regardless of whether the rate changes while you are driving within a toll segment.
If you do not have a NC Quick Pass account, you will be charged double the rate displayed on the pricing sign as you enter the express lane, regardless of whether the rate changes while you are driving within a toll segment.
Vehicles longer than 22 feet are considered extended vehicles and are subject to other rules and rates. To learn more, visit the I-485 Express Lanes webpage.
Direct connector ramps provide direct access between the express lanes and existing roads. One direct connector ramp is accessible from Exit 61, Johnston Road. The other direct connector ramp is accessible from Exit 66, Westinghouse Boulevard.
If you require assistance, safely maneuver your vehicle, if possible, out of moving traffic and onto the shoulder. Turn on your vehicle’s hazard lights and phone roadside assistance by dialing *HP.
If you are in a traffic accident, please contact 911.
The following riders and vehicles 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 a 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.
Unlike the I-77 Express Lanes, there will be no discounted or free HOV (high-occupancy vehicle) travel in the I-485 Express Lanes.