You may now use your Autosweep RFID in NLEX-SCTEX, Cavitex – DOTr

Our dream of a smooth drive from the north to south expressways is slowly becoming a reality. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) confirmed that we may now use our Autosweep RFID tags if traveling via North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), and Cavite Expressway (Cavitex). 

This is Phase 1 of DOTr's Toll Interoperability Project, which aims for a convenient, seamless, and simple travel on all expressways in the country. Though this sounds like a relief, the DOTr said that you have to maintain two accounts for you to enjoy a smooth drive to NLEX, SCTEX, or Cavitex – until the entire project goes full implementation. 

Before you may be able to use your Autosweep to pass NLEX, SCTEX, and CAVITEX, you have to secure an Easytrip account. You may do this by handing your Autosweep card over to the toll attendant. Wait for him/her to give you an application form; fill it out with the required details before handing it back. You need to pay an initial fee of P500, which will serve as your initial load. You have to wait for three (3) days for the activation to be completed, then you're good to go.

In case you have both Autosweep and Easydrive/Easytrip RFID tags on your car, you may keep both and continue with the dual tag setup. However, deactivating your Easytrip RFID in exchange for a one-tag, dual account setup is also a practical option. 

If you're wondering when you will be able to use your Eastrip in South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), you may do so soon. DOTr is now working on Phase 2 of its Toll Interoperability Project, which is about using Easytrip cards on San Miguel Corporation (SMC)-owned expressways including the SLEX, Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX), Muntinlupa-Cavite Expressway (MCX), and SKYWAY. 

DOTr added that the automated readers on the expressway handled by SMC are now undergoing modifications to read Easytrip tags. DOTr calculates that it will be ready by the first quarter of 2018.  

Photo courtesy of Judgefloro.