What is the Occupancy Detection System (ODS)?

The ODS is a technology used on the 91 Express Lanes in Riverside County to help verify the number of occupants in a vehicle traveling in the 3+ carpool lane. This system is essential to the 91 Express Lanes congestion pricing strategy and helps manage traffic flow more effectively.

What are the occupancy requirements and carpool discount for the 3+ carpool lane on the 91 Express Lanes?

FasTrak® account holders must have three or more people in their vehicle to travel in the 3+ carpool lane. Carpool vehicles with three or more people can travel toll free except eastbound, Monday-Friday from 4 pm to 6 pm. During this time carpools of three or more receive a 50% discount on the posted toll. All vehicles must drive in the designated 3+ carpool lane with three or more people in the vehicle at both Orange and Riverside County toll locations to receive the discount.

If fewer than three occupants are present in the vehicle while using the 3+ carpool lane on the 91 Express Lanes in Riverside County the discount will not be given, and a $5 occupancy correction fee will be added to the transaction.

What qualifies as a passenger for the carpool discount on the 91 Express Lanes?

To qualify for the discount on the 91 Express Lanes, all passengers, including those seated in the second or third row of vehicles, must be properly seated and clearly visible. Young passengers must be properly secured in a car seat or booster seat as required by law.

Can the ODS system detect passengers or car seats in the back seat?

The ODS system can detect people in both the front and back seats, even through dark tinted windows. This includes adults, children, or car seats. The system is designed to tell the difference between actual passengers and objects like bags or empty seats.

When will I not receive the carpool discount on the 91 Express Lanes?

If your vehicle has fewer than three occupants present while using the 3+ carpool lane on the 91 Express Lanes, the discount will not apply. You will be charged the full posted toll amount, and a $5 occupancy correction fee will be added to the transaction.

What if ODS incorrectly recorded the number of people in the car?

If you believe the ODS system counted your occupancy incorrectly, you can dispute the transaction online by logging into your 91 Express Lanes account or by calling Customer Service at (800) 600-9191, Monday-Friday 8 am to 6 pm.