The I-15 Express Lanes Toll Transponder from Costco includes $40.00 in pre-paid tolls, giving drivers immediate access to San Diego's managed express lane network at a savings over the standard retail price. The FasTrak transponder is a compact radio device that mounts to the inside of your windshield and links to a prepaid toll account, allowing you to pass through toll collection points electronically without stopping.

The I-15 Express Lanes span 20 miles of freeway between State Route 78 in Escondido and State Route 163 in San Diego. Overhead antennas read the transponder as you travel and automatically deduct the appropriate toll from your prepaid balance based on your entry point and current traffic conditions. Solo driver tolls range dynamically from $0.50 to $8.00 depending on congestion, while carpools traveling with the transponder stored in the provided mylar bag ride free.

The transponder must be registered promptly after first use. It will become inactive if not registered within 7 business days of first use or if the prepaid balance becomes negative. Driving with an inactive transponder constitutes a toll violation under California Vehicle Code 4770 and may result in fines and a hold on vehicle registration renewal.