by Detroit, Michigan — Drivers traveling between the United States and Canada will see higher toll costs in 2026 when using two of the busiest crossings over the Detroit River: the Detroit–Windsor Tunnel and the Ambassador Bridge.
Officials say the increases are part of routine annual adjustments tied to inflation and rising operating costs, impacting thousands of commuters, travelers, and commercial drivers who regularly cross between Detroit and Windsor.
Detroit–Windsor Tunnel tolls increase in 2026
Passenger vehicle tolls for the Detroit–Windsor Tunnel officially increase starting Monday, according to tunnel operator American Roads.
The standard toll for passenger vehicles traveling from Detroit into Windsor is rising from $8.25 to $9.00.
Drivers enrolled in the tunnel’s electronic payment system will also pay more. The Nexpress toll is increasing from $6.00 to $6.75, according to Regine Beauboeuf, president and CEO of American Roads.
Beauboeuf said the annual toll adjustments are necessary to maintain operations.
“Tolls increase each year around this time to keep up with rising costs and inflation,” she said.
The Detroit–Windsor Tunnel remains a critical international connection, particularly for daily commuters and travelers accessing downtown Windsor directly.
Ambassador Bridge tolls also rise
Drivers using the Ambassador Bridge — the busiest international land border crossing in North America — are also seeing higher costs.
As of Thursday, tolls for passenger vehicles crossing the bridge increased from $9 to $10.
The bridge plays a major role in both passenger travel and international trade, carrying a significant portion of U.S.–Canada commercial traffic each year. While trucking tolls vary based on vehicle type, passenger vehicle increases are often the most immediately felt by everyday travelers.
Officials have not indicated whether additional toll increases are planned later in the year.
Why tolls are rising now
Operators for both crossings point to familiar pressures: inflation, labor costs, maintenance expenses, and long-term infrastructure investment.
Running international crossings requires ongoing investment in staffing, security systems, roadway upkeep, and technology upgrades. These costs have continued to rise in recent years, prompting annual toll adjustments.
While the increases may appear modest individually, frequent cross-border commuters say the cumulative effect adds up quickly over time.
New competition coming to the Detroit River
Both the Detroit–Windsor Tunnel and the Ambassador Bridge are preparing for a major shift in cross-border traffic later this year with the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge.
The new bridge, which carries a $5.7 billion price tag, is expected to significantly reshape traffic patterns once it opens. While an official opening date has not yet been announced, construction is nearing completion.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge is designed to ease congestion, improve trade efficiency, and offer an alternative crossing for both passenger and commercial vehicles.
Its arrival is expected to introduce competitive pressure on existing crossings, potentially influencing future toll strategies and traffic volumes.
What this means for drivers
For now, travelers heading into Canada in 2026 should plan for higher out-of-pocket costs, especially those who cross frequently for work, shopping, or family visits.
Drivers are encouraged to:
- Check toll rates before traveling
- Consider electronic payment options where available
- Monitor updates regarding the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge
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With international travel rebounding and a new bridge entering the mix, the Detroit–Windsor corridor is entering a period of major transition.
Do you think toll increases are justified by rising costs, or should crossings absorb more of the expense? Will the new bridge change how often you cross into Canada? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
