TxDOT considers divesting management of TxTag tolls and customer service

The Texas Department of Transportation plans to transfer TxTag's toll transaction processing and customer account services to the Harris County Toll Road Authority by the end of the year.

TxDOT recommends that TxTag customers update their address, vehicle information and credit card information to avoid potential problems. Customers are also advised to pay past due bills as soon as possible.

TxDOT currently has a $185 million contract with TTEC Government Solutions to provide customer service. This contract expires on November 14.

If the change occurs, current TxTag customers would be able to continue using their toll stickers and would not need to apply for an EZ TAG from the Harris County Toll Road Authority.

However, drivers are not required to use TxTAG or HCTRA's EZ Pass. As the CTRMA website explains, toll transponders can be used in a number of different areas, including North Texas, Kansas and Florida.

After the transition, customers would manage their accounts through the HCTRA website. Customers could continue to use all TxTag locations in the Austin area for in-person services.

Although HCTRA would collect tolls, TxDOT would continue to be responsible for maintaining its toll roads, including SH 130, SH 45N, SH 45SE and MoPac.

TxDOT expects the changeover to take place gradually starting at the end of this year, but could stop the process at any time. Customers will be kept updated, it said.

Nathan Bernier contributed to this report.