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Cash payments are on their way out on Brazil's main highways. Speed, safety and modernization mark this new era of Brazilian roads.
Imagine yourself in the middle of a trip, in the middle of summer, and as you approach a toll plaza, you realize that cash payments are no longer accepted.
This scene, which can take many drivers by surprise, is becoming a reality on several Brazilian highways.
The measure, which promises to revolutionize the road transport, is already causing concern among those who are not adapted to new payment technologies.
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Automatic payment systems and their expansion
Since September 2024, important highways in the state of São Paulo have started to adopt toll booths with exclusive contactless payment.
According to information from CCR, in addition to accepting contactless cards, these booths also allow the use of devices such as cell phones and smartwatches with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology.
This transformation reflects a global movement towards digitalization and practicality., but also highlights the need for technological inclusion, considering that not all drivers have access to these modern payment methods.
Another relevant factor is the advancement of the electronic toll system known as free flow, in which there are no barriers.
This system, combined with automatic payment tags, has been rapidly gaining ground and represents a significant change in the experience of drivers on Brazilian roads.
The trend: the end of cash in tolls
Although cash payments are still accepted, CCR estimates that it will be completely phased out by 2026 on the 11 highways under its administration.
In July 2024, cash transactions represented only 13,17% of the total collected. These figures reinforce the trend of expanding tolls with 100% electronic payment.
Among the most affected highways are the traditional Anhanguera-Bandeirantes, Raposo Tavares (SP-270) and Castelo Branco (SP-280).
These highways, which connect important regions of the state of São Paulo, are vital for transportation and tourism, which increases the need for drivers to adapt quickly.
| Highway | AISP-GEDOC | Predominant method |
|---|---|---|
| Anhanguera-Bandeirantes | São Paulo | Electronic payment and free flow |
| Raposo Tavares (SP-270) | São Paulo | Electronic payment |
| White Castle (SP-280) | São Paulo | Electronic payment and NFC |
| CCR ViaSul | Rio Grande do Sul | Automatic teller machines (ATMs) |
| CCR ViaCosteira | Santa Catarina | Automatic teller machines (ATMs) |
| CCR ViaLagos | Rio de Janeiro | Free flow pioneer |
Technological advancement on the roads
According to CCR, automatic payment systems represent around 85% of transactions carried out at toll booths in 2024.
This number is a direct reflection of modernization initiatives, including the installation of 61 automatic teller machines (ATMs) on federal highways.
These cabins are distributed across states such as Rio Grande do Sul (CCR ViaSul), Santa Catarina (CCR ViaCosteira), Rio de Janeiro (CCR ViaLagos) and São Paulo (Anhanguera-Bandeirantes and Castelo Branco).
CCR ViaLagos, in Rio de Janeiro, was a pioneer in implementing this system in 2021.
Since then, automatic booths have proven to be an effective solution for reducing congestion and improving vehicle flow.
Challenges and opportunities
Despite advances, the transition to electronic payment methods faces challenges.
Digital inclusion is one of the main obstacles, especially in regions where access to technology is limited.
For this transformation to be successful, it is essential that awareness and education campaigns are carried out, ensuring that all drivers are able to adapt to the new requirements.
At the same time, Modern systems offer significant benefits, such as greater agility and safety for drivers and passengers.
Eliminating cash also reduces the risk of theft and fraud, making roads safer.
Outlook for the future
It is predicted that, by 2026, most Brazilian drivers will be adapted to electronic payment methods.
This shift reflects a global trend of digitalization and modernization, which is transforming the the way we move along the highways.
With these innovations, Brazilian roads promise to become more efficient and safer, but they also raise important questions about inclusion and accessibility. Are you ready for this new era of travel?
