Tolls - Melbourne Airport to Orlando - tolls

Question

I'm still a bit confused by the tolls. We have not visited Orlando for 7 years and I know they have had various changes.

We are arriving at Melbourne Airport on Saturday lunchtime and will be driving to Seaworld area. We will be staying in Orlando area for the duration of our stay until we return to the airport 2 weeks later.

Hiring a car through Budget.

I understand I can no longer pay the tolls by credit card but a pass is needed.

Can I buy a visitors pass or is this only available at MCO.

Any advice on the best pass to get. In the context of the overall holiday it is just a small cost but I would like to have some clarity on this before we arrive at the airport.

Thanks for your assistance.

Answer

Driving from Melbourne Airport to Orlando and navigating Florida’s toll roads can seem confusing, especially with changes in toll payment systems over the last several years. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan and avoid surprises.

Toll Roads Overview:

Florida’s toll roads, including the Florida Turnpike and various expressways around Orlando, no longer accept cash at most locations. Instead, tolls are collected electronically using systems such as SunPass, E-Pass, or via rental car toll programs.

SunPass: This is Florida’s main prepaid electronic toll system. You can purchase a SunPass transponder at certain locations (Walmart, Walgreens, gas stations) before your trip, or sometimes online. It allows you to pay lower toll rates than rental car toll programs.
Rental Car Toll Programs: Most major rental car companies, including Budget, offer an automated toll program. This typically works by attaching a transponder to the vehicle, and tolls are billed to your credit card plus a daily administrative fee. Some companies have daily caps. Note that rates can be higher than SunPass.
Visitors Pass / Temporary Transponder: SunPass now offers a "SunPass Mini" or visitor pass that can be obtained online or at select retailers. It is valid for up to 6 months and can be linked to your rental vehicle. This is convenient if you prefer not to enroll in the rental car company’s toll program.

Buying and Using the Pass:

You do not need to purchase a SunPass at MCO specifically. You can buy it at any retailer along the route or online before arrival.
Once you have a transponder, mount it as instructed in the car, and tolls will be automatically deducted.
If you use the rental car company’s toll program, Budget usually adds a daily fee (often around $3–$5/day) in addition to toll charges. Make sure you understand the fees when booking.

Recommendations for Your Trip:

If you plan to use toll roads multiple times during your 2-week stay, a SunPass Mini is often cheaper and simpler, avoiding daily fees from the rental company.
For a one-time or occasional toll drive, enrolling in Budget’s toll program may be simpler, especially if you don’t want to deal with buying and returning a SunPass transponder.
Keep in mind that some toll roads have higher rates during peak hours, and using SunPass gives you discounted rates compared to rental company billing.

Summary: You can use either a SunPass visitor pass purchased in advance or Budget’s toll program. The SunPass Mini may save money over multiple toll uses and does not require cash or stops at the toll plaza. Make sure to set it up properly in the vehicle to avoid violations. This will allow you to focus on your holiday in Orlando without worrying about toll hassles.