Travelers and coastal residents in North Carolina will face new ferry toll requirements beginning January 1, 2027, following approval of toll rates by the North Carolina Board of Transportation.
The changes will affect several ferry routes that have historically operated without tolls, including services connecting coastal communities and islands.
According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, the new tolling system is being implemented to comply with state legislation requiring toll collection across the state ferry network.
The Board of Transportation approved the rates and rate-setting methodology during its November 5, 2026, meeting.
Which North Carolina ferry routes will be affected?
The new toll requirements will apply to routes that currently operate without tolls.
These include:
- Currituck–Knotts Island
- Hatteras–Ocracoke
- Aurora–Bayview
- Cherry Branch–Minnesott Beach
Some routes already collect fares, and the new requirements will also establish a statewide toll structure.
How much will ferry passengers pay?
The approved base one-way rates include:
- Hatteras–Ocracoke: $10
- Currituck–Knotts Island: $7
- Aurora–Bayview: $7
- Cherry Branch–Minnesott Beach: $7
Passengers should check the official NCDOT ferry toll information for the applicable vehicle and passenger details before traveling.
Annual commuter pass available for eligible residents
The legislation also requires a $150 annual commuter pass for eligible permanent residents of North Carolina’s 20 coastal counties and active-duty military personnel.
The coastal counties include Beaufort, Bertie, Brunswick, Camden, Carteret, Chowan, Craven, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Hertford, Hyde, New Hanover, Onslow, Pamlico, Pasquotank, Pender, Perquimans, Tyrrell and Washington.
The program is intended to provide an annual option for qualifying regular ferry users.
When do the new tolls begin?
Under the current legislation, toll collection across the required ferry routes is scheduled to begin January 1, 2027.
School vehicles and buses transporting students are among the exemptions specified by the legislation. Additional emergency-related exemptions also apply.
Residents and visitors who regularly use coastal ferry services should review the updated toll schedule before planning trips in the new year.
